Driving a car that pulls to the right when accelerating can be a frustrating and dangerous experience. Not only does it make it difficult to keep the vehicle in a straight line, but it can also lead to uneven tire wear and damage to suspension and steering components.

The main cause of a car pulling to the right when accelerating is an issue with the alignment. When a car’s alignment is off, it can cause the vehicle to pull to one side when accelerating or braking. Improper wheel alignment usually causes this issue, such as incorrect toe-in or camber angles or worn ball joints and bushings in the suspension.

In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and solutions for a car that pulls to the right when accelerating. Understanding the problem and taking the appropriate steps to fix it will ensure a safe and smooth driving experience.

Misaligned Wheels

One of the most common causes of a car pulling to the right when accelerating is misaligned wheels. This can happen if your wheels are not properly aligned after installing new tires or an accident. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear and cause your vehicle to pull to one side when accelerating.

To ensure your wheels are aligned correctly, it’s best to take your car to a qualified mechanic or wheel alignment specialist. You should check the alignment periodically to ensure the wheels are straight and pointing in the same direction.

Worn Or Damaged Suspension Components

Worn or damaged suspension components are another possible cause for a car pulling to one side. These components ensure that all four tires stay firmly connected to the ground while driving. If they become worn out or damaged over time, they can lead to your car drifting in one direction while accelerating.

To fix this problem, you’ll need to replace any damaged suspension components with new ones and ensure they’re all installed correctly. 

Bent Or Damaged Steering Components

Bent or damaged steering components can cause a car to pull in one direction when accelerating. If any of these parts become bent or damaged over time due to wear and tear or an accident, it can result in your vehicle veering off course while driving.

To fix this issue, you’ll need to take your vehicle to a mechanic who can inspect and repair any bent or damaged steering components. 

Uneven Tire Wear

Another possible cause for a car pulling to the right when accelerating is uneven tire wear. Improperly inflated tires, worn suspension parts, or worn brakes can cause uneven tire wear. It can also be caused by driving habits such as driving on unpaved roads or making frequent sharp turns.

The solution here is to check your tires for signs of uneven wear, replace any worn suspension parts, and ensure that all four tires are properly inflated before going on long trips. You should also have your tires rotated and balanced as often as possible. If your tires are wearing unevenly on one side, you may need to replace them. 

Low Tire Pressure

Another potential cause of your car pulling to the right is low tire pressure. Low tire pressure can cause the vehicle to drift in one direction when accelerating due to friction between the road and the tires.

To fix this issue, properly inflate all four tires according to the manufacturer’s specifications. You should also check your tire pressure regularly to ensure it remains at optimal levels. If tire pressure drops regularly, you may need to replace your tires.

Unevenly Weighted Vehicle

If your car pulls to the right when accelerating, it could be because its weight is distributed unevenly across its axles. An unevenly weighted vehicle can be caused by excessive cargo or an imbalance in its suspension system.

To correct this issue, you should inspect your vehicle for any signs of damage or wear and tear on its suspension system and evenly distribute all cargo before driving again. 

Brake Imbalance

Another common cause of a car pulling to the right when accelerating is brake imbalance. This occurs when one side of the brakes is not working as efficiently as the other. This will cause the car to veer in that direction when you press down on the accelerator.

Fortunately, this issue is relatively easy to fix by having your brakes inspected and balanced by a professional mechanic. 

Power Steering Fluid Leak

Another possible cause of the car pulling to the right when accelerating is a power steering fluid leak. Over time, leaking power steering fluid can create air pockets in your vehicle’s power steering system. This results in an uneven application of force on either side and causing your car to pull in one direction or another.

To fix this problem, you’ll need to replace any worn or damaged parts and top up your power steering fluid if necessary. 

FAQ

Should A Car Pull Slightly To The Right?

No, a car should not pull slightly to the right. If you are driving in a straight line and take your hands off the wheel, your car should stay straight. If your vehicle is veering off course or drifting in one direction, it could indicate a problem with one of its steering or suspension components.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Car That Pulls To The Right?

The cost to fix a car that pulls to the right can vary depending on the underlying cause of the issue. Generally, minor repairs such as replacing worn tires or balancing brakes can be relatively affordable. However, more complex repairs, such as replacing worn suspension components, can be quite costly.

Is It Safe To Drive A Car That Pulls To The Right?

No, driving a car that pulls to the right is not safe. Pulling to the right can make it difficult to keep your car in a straight line, which can be dangerous when driving on winding roads or highways. If you experience this issue, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible to ensure the safety of yourself and other drivers.