Why Does My Car Pull to One Side When Braking? - Brake Repairs and Replacements at Andrews Car Centre - Lincoln
Why Does My Car Pull to One Side When Braking? - Brake Repairs and Replacements at Andrews Car Centre - Lincoln
Experiencing your car pulling to one side when braking can be unsettling – and it’s often a sign that something within your braking system or suspension needs attention. This issue not only compromises safety but can also lead to uneven tyre wear, reduced braking efficiency, and long-term damage to essential components.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we frequently diagnose and resolve braking issues like this, ensuring drivers regain full control of their vehicles. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes behind a car pulling to one side under braking and why addressing it promptly is crucial for your safety.
Common Causes of Braking Imbalance
1. Uneven Brake Pad Wear
Brake pads naturally wear down over time, but if one side wears faster than the other, it can create an imbalance during braking. This often leads to the vehicle pulling towards the side with the more effective braking force.
Why it Happens:
- Misaligned calipers
- Seized or sticking caliper pistons
- Faulty brake sliders or guide pins
Solution:
Regular brake inspections at Andrews Car Centre can help detect uneven wear early. Replacing brake pads in pairs (across the same axle) ensures even braking force distribution.
2. Sticking or Seized Brake Calipers
A seized or partially stuck brake caliper can cause one wheel to brake harder than the other, resulting in the car pulling to one side. Calipers apply pressure to the brake pads, and if they fail to release properly, the affected wheel experiences continuous friction.
Signs of a Sticking Caliper:
- Burning smell after driving
- Overheating brakes
- Reduced fuel efficiency
Solution:
Sticking calipers may require cleaning, lubrication, or in some cases, full replacement. Our technicians can diagnose and resolve caliper issues to restore even braking.
3. Brake Fluid Issues
Brake fluid operates under hydraulic pressure, transmitting force to the calipers. If there’s a blockage, air bubble, or leak in the brake fluid system, pressure may be unevenly distributed across the brake calipers. This can lead to unbalanced braking.
Indicators:
- Spongy or soft brake pedal
- Brake fluid warning light
- Reduced braking performance
Solution:
Brake fluid should be replaced every 1-2 years as part of routine maintenance. Flushing and refilling the brake fluid removes air and contaminants, restoring optimal braking performance.
4. Faulty Suspension Components
While braking issues are often the culprit, sometimes the problem lies within the suspension system. Worn or damaged suspension components, such as ball joints, control arms, or tie rods, can affect wheel alignment and cause the car to drift when braking.
Signs of Suspension Wear:
- Uneven tyre wear
- Vibrations during driving
- Clunking noises over bumps
Solution:
A full suspension inspection can identify worn parts that might be contributing to braking imbalances. Addressing these issues promptly prevents further damage.
5. Tyre and Wheel Misalignment
Tyres play a crucial role in maintaining stability during braking. Uneven tyre pressure, worn tyres, or misaligned wheels can lead to the car pulling in one direction when the brakes are applied.
How Tyres Affect Braking:
- Low tyre pressure on one side increases rolling resistance
- Uneven tread depth reduces grip and traction
- Wheel misalignment alters the contact angle of the tyres
Solution:
Regular tyre pressure checks, rotations, and wheel alignments ensure tyres wear evenly and maintain balanced braking performance. Andrews Car Centre offers comprehensive wheel alignment services to keep your car driving straight and smooth.
Why Prompt Brake Inspections Are Crucial
Driving with a vehicle that pulls to one side isn’t just inconvenient – it’s dangerous. The longer the issue is left unresolved, the greater the risk of:
- Longer Stopping Distances – Uneven braking reduces overall effectiveness.
- Tyre Damage – Uneven tyre wear can lead to blowouts or reduced traction.
- Brake Component Wear – Prolonged imbalance places excess strain on calipers, pads, and discs.
At Andrews Car Centre, our expert technicians use advanced diagnostic tools to assess and correct braking issues. Whether it’s a simple pad replacement or a more complex suspension repair, we ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy.
How Andrews Car Centre Can Help
At Andrews Car Centre, we offer:
- Comprehensive Brake Inspections – Checking pads, discs, calipers, and fluid levels.
- Brake Pad and Disc Replacements – Using high-quality parts that meet manufacturer specifications.
- Caliper Servicing and Repairs – Ensuring calipers operate smoothly and release fully.
- Wheel Alignment Services – Addressing misalignment that may contribute to pulling or uneven wear.
Preventative Measures to Keep Brakes Balanced
- Routine Brake Checks – Book a brake inspection every 10,000 miles or during regular servicing.
- Tyre Rotations and Pressure Checks – Rotate tyres every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to promote even wear.
- Fluid Maintenance – Replace brake fluid every 1-2 years to maintain hydraulic pressure.
- Gentle Braking – Avoid harsh braking and give your brakes time to cool after heavy use.
Book a Brake Inspection at Andrews Car Centre Lincoln
If your car is pulling to one side when braking, don’t ignore it. Contact Andrews Car Centre today to schedule a brake inspection. Our expert team will diagnose the issue, provide a clear breakdown of the repairs needed, and ensure your car is safe for the road.
Your safety is our priority – let us help you keep your vehicle performing at its best.