If your car constantly drifts or pulls to one side, even on a straight road, it’s a sign that something isn’t right. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, it can actually point to issues with tyres, brakes, suspension, or wheel alignment. At Dom’s Garage Services in Letchworth, we often see drivers who have been battling with a pulling steering wheel for weeks — only to discover the problem was easy to fix. The sooner you act, the safer (and cheaper) it will be.
Main Causes of Pulling
A car can pull to the left or right for several reasons:
- Wheel alignment: If your wheels aren’t aligned correctly, the car won’t track straight. This also causes uneven tyre wear.
- Tyre issues: Low pressure in one tyre, mismatched brands, or uneven tread depth can all cause pulling.
- Brake problems: A sticking caliper can apply more force on one wheel, dragging the car to that side during braking.
- Suspension wear: Worn-out bushes, shocks, or springs can upset your car’s balance and stability.
Warning Signs to Look For
- The steering wheel isn’t centred when driving straight.
- The car drifts to one side even on flat roads.
- Uneven or rapid tyre wear.
- Instability when braking hard.
Why This Problem Matters
Driving a car that pulls to one side is more than annoying — it’s unsafe. You may find yourself constantly correcting the steering, which increases fatigue. It also puts unnecessary stress on tyres and suspension, meaning higher running costs. Worst of all, it can make emergency stops unpredictable, putting you at risk.
How Dom’s Garage Services Fix It
When you bring your car to us, we’ll carry out:
- A professional wheel alignment check.
- Tyre inspection, including pressures and tread depth.
- A brake system check to identify uneven braking forces.
- A suspension and steering inspection to find worn components.
Once we know the cause, we’ll explain it clearly and provide the right fix — from a simple alignment adjustment to a brake repair or suspension replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will wheel alignment stop the pulling? In most cases, yes. But if the issue is with brakes or suspension, those repairs will be needed too.
- Can tyre pressure really cause pulling? Absolutely. Even a few PSI difference between tyres can cause noticeable drift.
- How often should I get wheel alignment checked? At least once a year, or sooner if you hit a pothole, kerb, or notice uneven tyre wear.
Book Your Wheel Alignment in Letchworth
If your car is pulling to one side, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Call Dom’s Garage Services on 01462 671753 or book online. You’ll find us at 11 Protea Way, Letchworth, SG6 1JT — your local experts for wheel alignment, brake checks, and suspension repairs.