My car pulls to one side when I brake

The car drifts left or right only when you press the brake. One side is braking harder than the other.

Get to it this week

A starting point, not a diagnosis. Most parts stores read check-engine codes and test batteries for free.

Likely causes — tick the parts you want

A sticking brake caliper
most likely · Doable with tools and a free afternoon
How to check: After a short drive, carefully hold your hand near each front wheel without touching it. A wheel noticeably hotter than the other, or a burning smell, points to a sticking caliper.
- Brake caliper(Ask for the core charge to be refunded when the old one comes back.)
- Front brake pads
- Brake fluid (DOT type on the cap)
Uneven or oil-soaked brake pads
possible · Doable with tools and a free afternoon
How to check: Look at the pads on both front wheels. One side much thinner than the other, or a wet, dark pad, will make the car pull.
- Front brake pads
- Brake cleaner
A collapsed brake hose or worn suspension part
less likely · A mechanic’s job
How to check: If the pads look even and neither wheel runs hot, the problem is likely deeper in the brake hoses or suspension and needs a lift to inspect.

Be careful

Don’t blow brake dust off with compressed air or breathe it in — wet it down with brake cleaner and wipe it away. Never get under a car held up only by a jack — set it on jack stands on flat, solid ground and chock the wheels that stay down.

Your car — the counter needs this

YearMakeModelEngine (optional)

VIN (optional, most exact)Which parts store (optional)

If the counter doesn’t have a part, your shopper asks them to order it under your name and messages you the order number. When it comes in, send someone to collect it.

Not quite it?

My brakes are grinding My brake pedal feels soft or spongy My brakes squeal My steering wheel shakes when I brake