Have you ever been driving down a straight road and felt as if you were struggling to keep your wheel centered? A slight shift to the right could be normal, but if it feels like your vehicle is pulling to the right or the left, this could be a big problem. There are a few things that can cause your vehicle to veer sharply to the right. The main issues could be the vehicle alignment, tires, or problems with the brakes.
If the issue is the vehicle alignment, it could mean that your tires are no longer set evenly and parallel with one another. An excellent way to realize you need a new alignment is to think back to when the vehicle last had it done. If you can't remember, it's time to get that done! Other indicators that your alignment is slipping is an unpleasant screeching sound from the tires being out of place, a crooked/hard to turn the steering wheel, and uneven wear along the tire tread, showing how uneven the alignment is.
If the alignment seems to be okay, no uneven tread or crooked steering wheel, no terrible noises, but there's still a pull? Check your tires! Even if the tires are aligned correctly, if there isn't the right amount of pressure in the tires, it can cause your vehicle to favor the side with more tire pressure. On top of it being an annoying drive at an angle, it can affect your alignment if ignored for too long.
If those two reasons don't fix the problem, it could be an issue with the brakes and suspension. Sometimes the brake line can get clogged so this means the brake fluid can't get to where it needs to go. This then causes the brake fluid to be dispersed unevenly and can cause the vehicle to favor a side. It could also be a stuck caliper, which is what applies pressure to the brakes to ultimately get the vehicle to stop altogether. If these are not responding, it won't apply the right amount of pressure and will cause the car to pull to the favored side.
It's best to keep regular maintenance on your vehicle to keep it running smoothly and safely on the road. If you feel your car starting to pull in directions other than how you're traveling, it's time for a checkup. It will keep you and everyone traveling around you safe and sound! Click here for a FREE estimate from Accurso Auto.