Pulling while driving
Check tyre pressures first, a low tyre is the most common cause. Uneven tyre wear, a knock to a kerb or pothole, or worn suspension parts can put the alignment out.
Pulling when braking
If it only pulls under braking, a sticking caliper, a seized slide pin or contaminated pads on one side is more likely than alignment.
Road camber
Most roads slope slightly towards the kerb, so a gentle drift to the left can be normal. Test on a flat, quiet road.
What to tell the provider
Whether it pulls all the time or only when braking, which side, any vibration, and whether the car has hit a kerb or pothole recently.
Safe to drive?
Mild pulling with normal braking: book it in soon. Strong pulling when braking, a burning smell from one wheel, or a soft pedal: stop driving and get it checked.
General guidance only, not a diagnosis. If in doubt, do not drive it and have it inspected. In an emergency, call 111.
Who can help
Get quotes for tyres & wheel alignment near you
Questions
Will a wheel alignment fix it?
Only if alignment is the cause. A good tyre shop checks pressures, tyres and suspension first.
Can uneven tyres cause pulling?
Yes. Different tyres or wear across an axle can make a car pull.