What Causes Vehicle Pulling Even with Correct Wheel Alignment Data?
2 Answers
Here are the reasons why a vehicle may still pull to one side despite having correct wheel alignment data: 1. Unequal tire pressure: When the four wheels or wheels on either side have different air pressures, it causes variations in wheel size, affecting the vehicle's balance and inevitably leading to pulling. 2. Inconsistent or failed shock absorber damping: If a vehicle's shock absorbers fail or have inconsistent damping, it results in uneven suspension height during driving, causing uneven force distribution on both sides of the vehicle and consequently making it pull. 3. Uneven brake force distribution: When any wheel's brake has poor return or incomplete separation, it continuously applies force to that wheel while driving, causing the vehicle to pull. 4. Abnormal chassis clearance: Excessive wear in the vehicle's chassis components creating abnormal clearances can also lead to vehicle pulling.
I've encountered this situation many times. The four-wheel alignment data looks correct, but the car still pulls to one side. First, check the tires. A difference of more than 1 psi in tire pressure between the two sides can make the steering wheel feel heavy. Also, feel the tire treads. If one side is worn into a jagged pattern, it's called cupping, which definitely causes the car to pull. The suspension components need a close inspection too. If the control arm bushings under the chassis are cracked or loose, they can cause issues—I've poked at them with a pry bar, and worn-out bushings tilt easily with a nudge. Don't overlook the brakes either. A stuck brake caliper can make the wheel drag. The trickiest are cars that have been in accidents. Even if the frame alignment data is spot on, the steering wheel often feels like it's fighting you when driving.
