Have you noticed your car pulling to one side when braking or driving? This common issue that many UK drivers experience is one that shouldn’t be ignored. Not only can it affect your driving feedback through the wheel, but it could indicate a safety issue and eventually lead to uneven tyre wear. We look behind some of the most likely causes of your car pulling to one side and how to fix them.
1. Wheel Alignment Issues
The most frequent reasons for your car pulling to the left or right is misaligned wheels. Hitting a kerb, pothole, or speed bump too forcefully can knock your alignment out of place. Over time, even normal driving can affect it.
Signs of poor alignment:
- Off-centre steering wheel
- Vehicle pulls noticeably to one side
- Uneven or rapid tyre wear
Solution: Book a wheel alignment check. It’s a quick, affordable fix that can make a big difference in handling and tyre lifespan.
2. Uneven Tyre Pressure
Incorrect tyre pressure can cause your car to pull to one side. If you find one tyre is underinflated, it creates more rolling resistance, which drags the car in that direction.
What to do:
- Inspect tyres for punctures or visible damage
- Check all 4 tyres with a pressure gauge
- Inflate to the recommended levels listed in your car’s manual or you can find this information in your door frame label
Tip: Regularly check your tyre pressures which can also save fuel, improve handling, and prevent your car veering to one side.
3. Brake Problems
If your car only pulls to one side when braking, the issue could point towards the brake calipers or brake pads. A sticking brake caliper or uneven brake wear can cause imbalanced braking force, dragging your car off-centre.
Warning signs:
- Burning smell or hot wheels (be careful not to touch them directly)
- Pulling occurs only during braking
- Vibration in the brake pedal
Fix: Get your brakes inspected as soon as possible. Left unchecked, this can lead to serious safety concerns.
Other Possible Causes
- Uneven weight distribution (e.g. heavy loads on one side)
- Worn suspension components
- Tyre wear patterns due to old or low-quality tyres
Get Your Car Checked
Here at MCM Garage we can help if your car is pulling to one side. Our garage offers full diagnostics, wheel alignment, brake checks, and tyre inspections to pinpoint the issue and get your car driving straight again. Contact us now to book a car service appointment online or call 01761 415 501.