Car Pulling to One Side? It Might Not Be Alignment Alone

June 19, 2025

Why It Could Be More Than Just Alignment

You’re driving straight—but your car? It has other ideas. Maybe it drifts to the right when you let go of the wheel or it feels like you’re constantly correcting your direction. It’s annoying. It’s tiring. And honestly, it’s a little scary.


We’ve had countless customers walk into our shop saying, “It’s probably just the alignment, right?” Sometimes it is. But often—it’s not that simple.


At Dr. Jack’s Auto Repair, we’ve been helping Long Island drivers figure out these frustrating issues since 1976. If your car is pulling to one side, we want to help you get to the root of it.


Is It Always an Alignment Issue? Not Quite.

Yes, misalignment is a very common cause—but not the only one. Your vehicle could be pulling for reasons that aren’t obvious at first glance.


Here’s what might be going on:

  • Uneven tire pressure – Just a few PSI difference between tires can throw off handling.
  • Brake caliper issues – A sticking caliper on one wheel will cause drag and pull.
  • Worn suspension parts – Control arms, bushings, and ball joints affect direction.
  • Tire wear or belt separation – A defective tire can cause serious steering inconsistencies.
  • Power steering issues – Hydraulic or electric steering problems can also result in drifting.



So while alignment might be the fix, ignoring it could mean you’re overlooking something bigger—and potentially more dangerous.

car pulling to one side - Dr Jack's offers top rated auto repair in Merrick NY.

Why You Shouldn’t Put It Off

We’ve seen it too many times: someone puts off a small issue, and weeks later they’re stuck with a much bigger repair—or worse, they get into an accident. A pulling car can wear out your tires faster, strain your suspension, and make emergency maneuvers harder.


If your car doesn’t feel safe, you shouldn’t be behind the wheel. And if your steering is off—even a little—it’s time to get it checked.


How We Can Help: Real Diagnostics, Real Answers

At Dr. Jack’s, we don’t play guessing games. We perform real diagnostics with experience-backed insights. We’ll check:

  • Your tire pressure and tread wear
  • The suspension and steering components
  • Brake system condition
  • Alignment specs and camber/caster angles
  • Wheel balance and tire defects


And yes—we offer free diagnostics upon request for things like brake pad life, TPMS, oil level, and more.



We’re also a fully registered New York State Auto Inspection Center, so if your car needs more than a simple alignment, we’ve got you covered from start to finish.

Car alignment check and suspension repair on Long Island

We Know It’s Stressful—But You’re Not Alone

When a local customer from Bellmore came in last week saying her SUV was drifting toward the curb, she thought it was just the alignment. It turned out her front brake caliper was seizing—causing uneven pressure on one side.


She left with her car riding smooth again—and more importantly, peace of mind. That’s what we want for you, too.


Let's Get You Driving Straight Again

If your car is pulling to one side, don’t ignore it. Let’s find out why—before it turns into something more serious.


📍 Visit Dr. Jack’s Auto Repair
57 Brooklyn Ave, Merrick, NY 11566
📞 Call us at
(516) 785-1444


We’ll help you feel confident behind the wheel again—because your car deserves more than a guess. And so do you.

Over 40 Years of Automotive Excellence

For the over 40 years we’ve been in business, we have been striving to provide our clients the best quality service possible to gain their full satisfaction. And they’ve shown their appreciation by coming back to us repeatedly.


We want to be the auto maintenance and repair facility for all your automotive needs.

Auto air conditioning diagnostic and repair in Merrick, NY by Dr. Jack's Auto Repairs
June 10, 2025
Don’t sweat it—keep your car cool and your A/C ice-cold with expert help from Dr. Jack’s Auto Repair in Merrick, NY. Free diagnostics available upon request.
Dashboard showing check engine light illuminated in a car
May 20, 2025
Is your check engine light on? We offer expert diagnostics at Dr. Jack’s Auto Repair in Merrick, NY to find and fix the issue before it gets worse.
Mechanic at Dr. Jack’s Auto Repair rotating tires on a car in Merrick, NY
May 15, 2025
Wondering when to rotate your tires? Learn how often—and why it matters—at Dr. Jack’s Auto Repair in Merrick, NY. Trusted auto service in Nassau County.
Spring Auto Repairs in Nassau County, NY
May 6, 2025
Learn the 5 essential spring auto repairs your vehicle needs after winter. Visit Dr. Jack’s Auto Repair in Merrick, NY for trusted service since 1976.
Choosing the Best Auto Repair Shop on Long Island
March 26, 2025
Looking for the best auto repair shop on Long Island? Learn how to choose a reliable, trustworthy mechanic with these expert tips from Dr. Jack’s Auto Repair.