Key statistics. Approximately 2.15 million vehicles failed their MOT due to tyre defects in the UK during 2023-24. (DVSA / TyreSafe, 2023-24). In 2024, over 5 million vehicles had suspension or steering issues identified in the UK, with approximately 2.7 million failing their MOT purely due to these components. (MOT Suspension & Steering Failure: Repair Costs Guide 2025, 2024).
If your car is pulling to one side while you're driving, it's a clear sign that something isn't quite right with its alignment, tyres, brakes, or suspension system. This issue can range from a simple fix like adjusting tyre pressure to more serious mechanical problems, all of which compromise your vehicle's safety and handling.
Could It Be Your Tyres?
Uneven tyre pressure, wear, or damage is one of the most common reasons your car might pull to one side. For instance, if the tyre on the side your car is pulling towards has significantly lower pressure, it creates more rolling resistance, causing the vehicle to drift.
Tyres are your only contact with the road,
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to drive if my car is pulling to one side?
It depends on the severity and cause. A minor pull, perhaps due to slight tyre pressure differences, might allow for continued driving to a garage. However, a sudden, strong pull, a pull during braking, or one accompanied by a burning smell, indicates a serious safety concern and means you should stop driving immediately and seek professional help.
What causes my car to pull to one side when braking?
If your car pulls to one side specifically when braking, it's most likely an issue with your braking system. Common causes include a sticking brake caliper, unevenly worn brake pads or discs, contaminated brake fluid, or issues with wheel cylinders. This can lead to uneven braking force across the wheels.
Why does my car pull to one side when accelerating?
A car pulling to one side under acceleration, particularly in front-wheel drive vehicles, is often due to 'torque steer'. Other causes can include worn suspension components (like control arm bushings), worn engine mounts, uneven tyre grip, or alignment issues that become more noticeable under load.
