* Uneven brake pad wear: This is a very common cause. If the brake pads on one side of the car are worn more than the other, that side will grip less, causing the car to pull towards the side with the more worn pads.
* Sticking caliper: A brake caliper that's sticking on one side can cause that wheel to drag, forcing the car to pull in the opposite direction. This is more likely to cause pulling while driving, even without braking, but it will exacerbate the pull when braking.
* Brake line issues: A restricted or leaking brake line on one side will reduce braking power on that side, causing the car to pull toward the weaker side.
* Worn or damaged brake rotor: A warped or severely scored brake rotor will cause uneven braking and pulling.
* Suspension issues: While less common as a direct cause of braking pull, problems like a worn ball joint or tie rod end on one side can affect how the wheel responds to braking force, contributing to the pull.
* Wheel bearing issues: A severely worn wheel bearing can affect wheel alignment and braking performance, leading to a pull.
What to do:
It's crucial to get this checked by a qualified mechanic. Driving with uneven braking is dangerous. The mechanic can diagnose the problem correctly and perform the necessary repairs, preventing potential accidents. Don't attempt to fix this yourself unless you have significant automotive experience.
