What causes the car to pull to one side or the other when it brakes? Why does the brake pedal cause the car to pull to one end when it is pressed?
Your vehicle’s most important safety device, the brakes, must be working properly. If the brake system fails, there are many obvious symptoms that can be easily identified.
Most drivers experience a brake failure when their vehicle pulls to one side or the other when they press the brake pedal. It doesn’t really matter which direction the car pulls in, it can happen any way. Rarely, the car might suddenly pull in the opposite direction and pull to the right.
Why does the car pull right or left?
Here are some common reasons your vehicle may only pull to one (right or left), when the brake pedal is depressed.
1. Calipers for Brake Calipers
Faulty calipers are one of the main causes of cars pulling left or right. The hydraulic brake system’s hydraulic brake actuates the caliper and applies pressure on the brake pads to stop it. This part is found on all wheels equipped with disc brakes. Some vehicles only have disc rear wheels and drum front wheels. These vehicles have only calipers on the front wheels. If one of the brake calipers is stuck, the vehicle will start pulling in that direction. If this happens, the caliper should be replaced or repaired.
2. Brake Hose Collapse
A collapsed or damaged brake hose could also be a cause. While the hose may appear fine from the outside, the inner lining may be causing a restriction. You can diagnose the problem by listening to the car’s response as you press the brake pedal. A collapsed brake hose can cause the vehicle to pull for a few second after you press the brake pedal. After that, the vehicle will go back to normal. Rarely, the hydraulic fluid may be sent to the caliper. This fluid cannot then return to the master valve. This causes the caliper and vehicle to pull continuously.
3. Brake Pads that are worn
The right and left brake pads of the same axle usually wear at the exact same rate. If there is uneven wear (e.g., stuck brake caliper), the vehicle may pull to one side. This happens because the pad on the other side of the brake lever has better braking capabilities than the worn one.
4. Broken Suspension parts
The suspension system plays an important part in reducing the vehicle’s weight when it brakes. If suspension parts fail, the vehicle pulls to one side, making it difficult to control. There are many parts to the suspension system. These include wishbones and shock absorbers, as well as bushings. They can wear down over time. It’s normal for parts of the suspension system to wear down or become less reliable over time. Regular vehicle service can help prevent these problems.
5. Uneven Tire Pressure Ratio
This effect is especially evident during acceleration and cruising. The car will pull in the opposite direction if one of its tires is significantly less pressure than the other. This is especially noticeable for the front tires. Low air pressure can cause the tire to lose its diameter and speed. This will cause your car to steer slightly in this direction when you are driving or braking.
6. Bearing for a defective wheel
A wheel bearing that is too loose or has too much play can cause brake discs and pads to become misaligned. This can cause your vehicle to pull to the side because it reduces contact between the pads and the discs when braking.
7. Brake pads of poor quality and incompatible with each other
The friction coefficient can be affected by the quality of brake pads. You should ensure that the brake pads you are replacing fit your vehicle. Rear and front pads should be replaced in pairs. If one pad is not replaced in pairs (front or rear), the vehicle will pull to one side.
