Why is My Car Pulling?

September 24, 2024

Why is My Car Pulling? Understanding the Cause and Solution

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!

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ARE MY BRAKES SAFE?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

October is more than just pumpkin patches and crisp fall air. For many families in Monterey, it's also the start of darker evenings, wetter roads, and more time on the road. That’s why October is the perfect time to think about one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your brakes. At Wayside Garage, we participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign every October. It's not just about brake repair — it’s about raising awareness, supporting breast cancer research, and keeping our community safe on the roads. ________________________________________ What Are the Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention? Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked: • Squealing or grinding noises • A soft or “spongy” brake pedal • Car pulling to one side when braking • Vibration or shaking when you press the brakes • Increased stopping distance Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive repairs down the road — or worse, a serious accident. We always say: if it feels off, bring it in. ________________________________________ Why Brake Inspections Matter More in Fall With more rain, shorter days, and holiday travel ahead, your brakes are under more stress in the fall. At Wayside Garage, we see an uptick in emergency brake repairs this time of year — many of which could have been avoided with a quick inspection. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive brake check, looking at: • Brake pads and rotors • Brake fluid level and condition • Brake lines and hoses • Calipers and hardware And if you’re part of our Wayside Garage Maintenance Plan, your brake inspections are included with your scheduled services. That’s one more reason to stay on track with routine care. ________________________________________ Brakes for Breasts: Repair With a Purpose Every October, we join auto shops nationwide for the Brakes for Breasts campaign. Here’s how it works at Wayside Garage: • You get free brake pads (you only pay for labor and any additional parts if needed). • We donate 10% of the brake job to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. It’s a meaningful way to protect your family on the road while supporting groundbreaking research that could change lives. ________________________________________ Why Choose Wayside Garage for Brake Service? We know you have options when it comes to brake repair in Monterey. So why do so many drivers trust us? • Family-owned and operated since 1946 • ASE-certified technicians who care about doing it right • Honest inspections and clear explanations • Free digital vehicle health reports • A shop built on integrity, hospitality, and professionalism When you bring your vehicle to us, you're not just another ticket — you're part of the Wayside Garage family. ________________________________________ Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today October is the best time to have your brakes checked — and support a great cause while you're at it. Whether you’re noticing a problem or just want peace of mind before the holidays, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Let's keep your vehicle — and your community — safe this fall.