If a vehicle pulls to one side when braking, what is likely the cause?

When a vehicle pulls to one side during braking, the most likely cause is uneven brake pad wear. This condition occurs when one set of brake pads encounters more friction than the other during braking, resulting in stronger braking on one side. As a result, the vehicle will pull toward the side with the least braking force.

Uneven brake pad wear can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper installation, differences in brake component conditions, or issues with the calipers or brake lines that affect the distribution of hydraulic force. It is critical to regularly inspect brake components and maintain them to ensure even wear and optimal braking performance.

While worn tires, improper tire alignment, and low tire pressure can contribute to handling issues and affect how a vehicle drives, they are not the primary causes of a pull specifically during braking. These factors can cause pulling but typically in a less direct manner than uneven brake pad wear, which directly influences how force is applied to the wheels when the brakes are engaged.