No, you are not imagining things. If your car feels like it is deviating or pulling as your drive, it most likely is. If your car is pulling, it is important to have the issue assessed as soon as possible. Not only is pulling a safety hazard, it could be a sign of worsening damage. Let’s discuss what pulling can mean, the causes, and where you should take your vehicle to get it back on track.
Key Takeaways
- If your car veers while driving, it’s likely pulling. Note when and how it occurs for diagnosis.
- Common causes include misaligned wheels, uneven tire pressure, suspension, brake issues, and a bent frame.
- Contact a professional for worsening pulling, unusual tire wear, or strange noises/vibrations.
Signs To Look Out For
If your car is pulling to the left or right as you drive, that is an indication of a problem. To better diagnose the issue, it is important to take some notes—mental or literal—and discuss what is happening with a trained auto technician. Here are some signs that can help an auto tech identify what is causing your car to pull:
- Does the pulling occur on straight roads or when you are turning the vehicle?
- Which direction does the car pull when you are moving down a straight road?
- Is there any pulling when you brake?
- Is the pulling constant or does it happen intermittently?
- When did the pulling start?
What Would Cause My Car to Pull?
There are several reasons that a vehicle may pull to either side of the road while you drive. Generally, it is due to damage that is often caused from a lack of maintenance or a collision. Here are some of the potential causes of the pulling:
Wheels are Out of Alignment
Wheel misalignment occurs when the angles of the wheels deviate from the manufacturer’s specifications. This misalignment can be caused by hitting potholes, curbs, or other road hazards. Symptoms include uneven tire wear, steering wheel vibration, and, of course, the car pulling to one side. Proper wheel alignment ensures that all wheels are parallel and pointing straight ahead, optimizing tire performance and vehicle handling.
Uneven Tire Pressure
Discrepancies in tire pressure between the left and right sides of your vehicle can lead to imbalanced handling and cause the car to pull towards the side with lower pressure. Low tire pressure can be caused by factors such as temperature changes, punctures, or simply gradual air loss over time. Regularly checking and maintaining proper tire inflation levels is essential for safe and predictable driving.
Suspension Problems
The suspension system plays a crucial role in maintaining stability and control while driving. Issues such as worn-out shocks or struts, damaged control arms, or broken suspension springs can disrupt the balance of your vehicle and cause it to pull to one side. Additionally, worn or damaged suspension components can result in uneven tire wear and compromised handling, posing safety risks on the road.
Brake Issues
Problems with the braking system can also cause your car to pull to one side. Uneven braking pressure, typically caused by issues such as uneven brake pad wear, stuck calipers, or hydraulic system malfunctions, can lead to imbalanced braking forces between the left and right wheels. This imbalance can cause the vehicle to veer to one side when braking, compromising control and safety.
Bent Car Frame
A bent or damaged car frame, often resulting from a collision or impact, can cause asymmetrical weight distribution and affect the vehicle’s overall stability. A compromised frame can lead to various handling issues, including pulling to one side while driving. Repairing a bent frame typically requires specialized equipment and expertise to restore structural integrity and ensure safe operation on the road.
When Should You Take Your Vehicle to an Auto Repair Shop?
Now that you know what to look out or and the reasons behind pulling, let’s discuss when you need the assistance of a professional. While pulling is not always an issue that requires a collision repair center to fix, you will definitely want to contact an auto body repair shop in South Jersey if the pulling began after an accident. You may also want to schedule an appointment for swift repairs if you notice any of the following:
- The pulling has become more severe.
- There is unusual wear and tear on the tires.
- You hear strange noises, such as clanking and grinding, come from the vehicle as it moves or turns.
- The steering wheel is shaking or vibrating while you drive, regardless of the speed you are traveling.
Contact a South Jersey Collision Repair Center Today
Pulling should not be taken lightly. If your car has begun to pull, there is something wrong that needs to be repaired. For pulling, trust automotive repair specialists like those at Elmer’s Auto Body. Our team is highly skilled, and we understand how important it is to keep your vehicle on the road. It’s time to schedule your appointment. Call one of our three South Jersey locations or fill out the online form today!