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Chevrolet Silverado 1999-Present: Why Does My Truck Pull Right?

Not only is it annoying when your truck pulls to the side, but it is also unsafe. We'll guide you through correcting this hazardous occurrence.

By Jerry Perez - June 23, 2015

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (1999-present).

Having the steering pull either right or left fit in the "annoying" category with squeaks, squeals and vibrations. And just like the aforementioned, it could be signs of bigger problems with your Chevy Silverado. Minor pulling of the steering wheel while driving isn't all that uncommon in new and used vehicles, and even sometimes it could be benign and doesn't always mean there is something mechanically wrong with your truck. Sometimes cars pull to the side due to road crown, road condition, weather conditions, or even weight load in the truck. We've compiled the most common reasons why Chevy Silverado owners have experienced steering pull in either direction. Remember that if you don't find the solution, you should visit a professional repair shop.

Step 1 – Check the wheels and tires

They could be low, or unbalanced.

Tires and wheels take an enormous amount of stress due to friction from the road and weather conditions. Along with that stress they also support the entire weight load of the Chevy Silverado, which is no lightweight. So a small variation in the manufacturer specific tire air pressure could make a specific tire pull to the right or left. Bent or damaged wheels could also make a specific side of the truck pull to one side, therefore pulling on your steering wheel while driving.

  • Check and set tires to the correct tire pressure
  • Rotate tires to avoid uneven tread wear and pulling
  • Inspect wheels for damage
  • Balance wheels
Figure 1. Check tires for high or low tire pressure, and inspect wheels for damage.

Step 2 – Does it only happen while braking?

The brake balance could be off.

Brakes certainly work and do a lot more than we can imagine. We all expect the brakes to bite when we step on the pedal, but a lot of things have to happen in order for the brakes to do their job. Brakes are set to a specific front and rear, left and right balance in order to evenly and properly slow down your Silverado. Brake line damage, or overall poorly serviced brakes can also cause your truck to pull to the side under braking.

  • Inspect right and left brake lines to make sure they aren't damaged
  • Inspect pads/shoes and rotors/drums to make sure they aren't overly worn out or overheated

If brake lines are damaged, it is imperative that you replace them, if your brakes are worn out or overheated, you may be able to resurface the rotors/drums or replace them.

Figure 2. Worn out brakes could cause pulling.

Step 3 – Check wheel alignment

It could be off or misaligned.

Wheel alignment sounds simple, but it is a science in itself. This is usually the last step to check for pulling, as it must be done at a proper shop with the adequate alignment tools. Alignment is made up of camber, caster, and toe in / toe out. They are all measured in positive or negative degrees. If you have recently installed any size tire or wheel other than the stock size, or if you have tuned any suspension component, you may have thrown the alignment off. Visit a shop and have them tune it properly. Bad alignment isn't only annoying, but it is also unsafe and could unevenly wear out your tires.

Figure 3. The science of wheel alignment.

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