Have you ever been driving down the road and felt your car pulling to one side? This can be not only frustrating but also potentially dangerous. At Wayside Garage, we recently had a customer with a 2007 BMW experiencing this very issue. After a thorough inspection, we found that the alignment was off, and the tires were worn unevenly. Let's break down why this happens and how to prevent it.
Common Causes of a Car Pulling
When your car pulls to one side, several factors could be at play:
Wheel Alignment Issues: Misaligned wheels are a leading cause of a car pulling. Your vehicle's alignment can be thrown off by hitting potholes, curbs, or even parking lot stoppers.
Uneven Tire Wear: If the tires on your car are worn unevenly, it can affect how your car drives, even if you correct the alignment. In our customer's case, the tires were so worn that simply adjusting the alignment wasn’t enough.
Tire Pressure: Uneven tire pressure can also cause pulling, but this is usually a quick fix. Always ensure your tires are inflated according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Brake Issues: Sometimes, sticking brake calipers can cause the vehicle to pull while driving or braking.
How We Fixed the Issue
For the BMW, we performed a wheel alignment on our state-of-the-art alignment rack. This process involves adjusting the toe, camber, and caster to ensure the wheels are perfectly aligned. However, since the tires were already worn unevenly, we had to replace them as well. Without new tires, the car would have continued to pull, even with a correct alignment.
After the repair, the car was driving straight and true again.
How to Prevent Future Alignment Problems
Keeping your vehicle in alignment and tires in good condition is key to avoiding pulling issues. Here are some steps to help prevent future problems:
Annual Wheel Alignment: We recommend a wheel alignment at least once a year to keep your car driving smoothly.
Tire Rotation: Rotating your tires every oil change (about every 5,000 miles) helps them wear evenly. Uneven tire wear can lead to pulling, so this simple maintenance can save you from bigger issues down the road.
Regular Inspections: At Wayside Garage, we offer a complimentary inspection every 5-6 months with your oil change. During this time, we’ll check the alignment, tire wear, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your car is in top shape.
If your car is pulling, don’t wait! Give us a call at Wayside Garage, or schedule an appointment online. We’ll help get your car back on track—literally!