• What to do
• How to fix
• Causes
• Reasons
• Fixes
• Solutions
• Car
• Vehicle
• Auto
• Repair
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If you drive your car regularly, you would immediately know if something is wrong. If you notice anything unusual, then it could be a sign that a replacement or repair is needed.  

There are times that car issues can be detected early. However, there would also be times that you won't notice the issue until it gets more serious; and one of the most common problems when driving is when your vehicle pulls to the right.

Tugging your wheel and trying to maintain a straight line is both annoying and dangerous. If you are not focused and careful, it can lead to accidents which is something that we want to avoid. 

There could be several reasons as to why your car pulls to the right, and it's sometimes difficult to tell exactly where the point of concern is. 

This guide can help you figure out the possible causes and solutions on why your car is pulling to the right.

Ten Possible Reasons and Solutions

1. Misaligned Wheels

This is one of the top reasons why the car is pulling to the right. This means that the tires are unbalanced and no longer parallel to each other. You’ll notice that if you let go of the steering wheel. It will not go back to its original position and your car will only move in a single direction; will sometimes cause unwanted vibrations in the steering wheel.

In order to keep a straight line, you will need to pull back and steer constantly to the opposite direction. This is very uncomfortable and dangerous.  

The misalignment and unbalanced tires happens over time due to driving on bad road conditions such as driving over potholes or curbs and other uneven surfaces. 

You will need to schedule a wheel alignment service to fix this. Remember that getting your wheels aligned regularly not only increases your tires’ life but also improves your vehicle’s overall performance. Also, it will definitely prevent your car from pulling to the right or in one direction. 

2. Uneven Tire Pressure

It's also best to check the pressure of all four tires whenever your vehicle pulls to the right. The way the car leans and rests could also be affected by uneven tire pressure. 

One way to know is by checking the car's height against both tires. Underinflated or overinflated tires on one side could be the reason for an unbalanced height. If you have a pressure gauge, you can also use this to check the pressure in your tires. 

In cases like this you can remove air if it’s overinflated or add more air to your tire if it’s underinflated. The tire pressure fluctuates as you drive so regularly check your car tires. 

Make sure you know or you can also check your manual for the manufacturer's tire pressure recommendations. 

3. Brake System Problem

If your vehicle pulls to the right while braking, then there could be a problem with the car’s brake system. The calipers could be stuck and could be identified by grinding noises and burning smell from the heat. 

When the brake pedal is pushed, the calipers apply pressure to the brake pads which is important in bringing a car to a stop. The car would ultimately pull to one side if they are not functioning well. 

Remember that any issues with your car’s brake is a safety hazard so you should immediately get it checked and fixed by your trusted professional mechanic.

4. Collapsed Brake Hose

Another part of the car’s brake system is the brake hose. A collapsed brake hose can also cause a vehicle to pull in one side, usually to where the good brake hose is located.

When you hit on the brakes, the caliper will need a big amount of fluid to move the piston. The one with the good hose will get the fluid sooner, and the side with a collapsed brake hose will get the needed fluid much later. As you start to depress the pedal, you will feel the pull. However, the pull will stop as the fluid slowly flows and moves the piston. 

If you notice anything unusual like a mushy brake pedal, a worn out or damaged brake hose or if the brakes are not working, bring it to any professional mechanic service for replacement or repair. 

5. Torque Steer

FWD or front wheel drive vehicles usually experience Torque Steer. During hard acceleration, the car tends to send more power to a single front wheel. This means the car is likely pulling to one side or the other. 

There are several causes of torque steer. It could be a loose steering element, too much movement of the ball joint, weak tie rod, a damaged motor mount or a lower control arm bushing failure. Inconsistent tire wear on the front wheel can also be the cause. 

It is better to have your vehicle checked by a professional since this issue can be caused by a lot of possible worn or faulty components. Broken components should be replaced or repaired to avoid further problems and safety hazards. 

6. Suspension System Problems

Every car component has its expiry and could wear out over time. Deteriorated or worn out car suspension parts like the ball joints, control arm bushings, shocks and struts can also cause a pulling of your vehicle to the right.

You'll notice that pulling happens each time you hit on the brakes, and will then automatically stop when you release the brake. Another indicator is when your steering wheel sharply turns even when you are slowing down. 

If this happens, make sure to visit your trusted service center and have the broken parts replaced or fixed. 

Avoid driving the car before these issues are resolved. It’s also recommended to follow your scheduled maintenance and service to prevent these issues from happening. 

7. Tire Conicity

Tire conicity is a tire defect caused by improper manufacturing. The belts under the tire’s tread are not fully aligned causing it to inflate and harden to a cone-like shape instead of a round shape. This is why your car pulls to the side where the defective tire is on. 

Since it’s considered a defect, you can have the tires replaced and it should be covered under their manufacturer’s warranty.

8. Tire Separation

Tire separation is caused by faulty manufacturing. It can also be caused by tire abuse, incorrect flat repair, low tire pressure, or excessive tire wear. 

This happens when air forces the tire tread to be disconnected from the tire casing or body. When the tread gets disconnected from the casing, it causes friction as it hits the undercarriage of the car. The car usually pulls in the opposite direction as the driver tries to maintain the car’s braking action. 

Better have your car checked as soon as possible if you notice the tires and steering wheel start shaking and vibrating even at low speeds.  

9. Worn Wheel Bearings

Your car may also pull towards the right if the wheel bearing is completely worn out. Wheel bearings help your vehicle’s wheels run quietly and smoothly. 

Worn wheel bearings can cause your tire to fall off. It can also damage the car’s sensors on anti-lock braking systems. 

If you hear humming and growling noises while driving, or snapping, grinding, and clicking noises when cornering and turning, then your car's wheel bearings may already be worn out. 

Have it fixed by a professional immediately when this occurs. 

10. Memory Steer

Memory steer can also cause your vehicle to pull in one direction. This means a car pulling in the direction where you steered.  

For example, you steer to the left, and your car suddenly starts pulling towards the left too.  Worn out parts in the steering system like the tie rods, strut bearings, ball joints can cause this issue.  

This can also be caused by an improper installation of a steering component or an unbalanced power steering. 

It is recommended to bring your car to your trusted mechanic and have it checked and fixed.

Conclusion

When your car is pulling to the right or one direction, be sure to have it checked immediately to ensure your safety and those around you.

Follow your vehicle's maintenance schedule and take note of this guide, so you know what to look out for and what to do if ever you get yourself in this situation.