Car alignment problems can be a major pain for drivers, especially on long trips. However, alignment problems are more than just a nuisance. They can cause your tires to wear unevenly and even damage to your car’s frame if left unchecked for too long. Let us look at some common reasons why your car may pull to one side or the other when driving.
Alignment
When one or more wheels are out of alignment, your car will start pulling to one side. Generally, when your car is inspected or you get new tires, the shop will do a wheel alignment and tire rotation to ensure this does not happen. However, hitting potholes and
Tire Pressure
Tire pressure is a common and simple cause of a car pulling to one side. This occurs when the tire pressure is out of balance in one or more of the tires. If you suspect tire pressure is the root cause of your troubles, simply fill the tires to the manufacturers requirements and see if the problem resolves itself. This can be done by visiting a gas station; they usually have a tire re-fill station you can use for a few quarters. If the problem persists, then it may be time to see a mechanic.
Brake Problems
Brakes can also cause a car to pull to the left or right if one of the calipers gets stuck within the braking system. Other common brake issues can include a collapsed brake hose or dry slide pins. Having faulty brakes is always important for you to address right away before you put yourself and other drivers in danger.
Suspension Problems
The suspension system in your car keeps your ride nice and smooth, but over time it can wear out making your smooth ride a little bumpier. One thing that can happen if the suspension system does not wear evenly is that the car will pull to one side or the other because of the added pressure on that side of the car.
If your car is pulling to one side when you drive it and you have already checked that the tires have the appropriate amount of pressure, it is time to speak with a professional. While it may seem like just an annoyance, bigger issues could be bubbling under the surface. At Westside Transmission & Automotive, inc. we can diagnose and fix your problem and get you back on the road quickly. Give us a call today at 310-473-2235 to discuss your issue!