Reasons Your Toyota Highlander Pulls to the Right When Driving (Plus Solutions)

ByChalobah Leonard Toyota

Having your vehicle pull to one side when driving is not only frustrating but can also be dangerous. If you’re a Toyota Highlander owner experiencing a pull to the right while driving, it could be due to several factors.

So, you should address this issue promptly and determine the root cause of the problem to avoid any potential safety hazards.

The most common reason a Toyota Highlander pulls to the right is an alignment or tire pressure issue. To fix the issue, you have to check the alignment and adjust the tire pressure as necessary.

For your convenience, in this guide, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons your Toyota Highlander pulls to the right when driving and offer possible solutions to resolve the issue. By understanding the possible causes and solutions, you can quickly identify and fix the problem and get back to enjoying a smooth and safe driving experience.

Possible Reasons Your Toyota Highlander Pulls to the Right When Driving

If you’ve noticed that your Toyota Highlander pulls to the right when you’re driving, there are several possible causes to consider. Below are some of the most common reasons why this might be happening.

Uneven Tire Pressure

One of the most common reasons your vehicle might pull to the right is that your tires have uneven pressure. When the pressure in one tire is lower than the others, it can cause the vehicle to pull in the direction of the tire with lower pressure.

Misaligned Wheels

Another possible cause of your vehicle pulling to the right is misaligned wheels. When the wheels are not aligned properly, they can cause your vehicle to pull in one direction.

Worn Suspension Components

The suspension system in your vehicle ensures a smooth ride and keeps your vehicle stable. If any of the suspension components are worn or damaged, it can cause your vehicle to pull to the right.

Brake Problems

Brake problems can also cause your Toyota Highlander to pull to the right. If one of your brakes is not working properly, it can cause your vehicle to pull in the direction of the working brake.

Road Surface Issues

Finally, your vehicle may be pulling to the right because of road surface issues. Uneven road surfaces or road crowning can cause your vehicle to pull in one direction. If you notice that your vehicle only pulls to the right on certain roads, it’s likely a road surface issue.

Symptoms of Pulling to the Right When Driving Your Toyota Highlander

If you notice that your Toyota Highlander is pulling to the right when you’re driving, there are several symptoms that you might experience. These symptoms can help you identify the issue and take appropriate action to fix it.

One of the most obvious symptoms of pulling to the right is that you will need to constantly correct the steering to keep the vehicle moving in a straight line. You might also feel a pulling sensation in the steering wheel, making it more difficult to maintain control of your vehicle.

Another symptom of pulling to the right is that your tires may wear unevenly. This is because the tire on the side the vehicle is pulling toward will be under more stress, which can cause it to wear out more quickly.

Additionally, you may notice that your fuel economy decreases, as your vehicle will need to work harder to maintain speed and direction. If you notice any of these symptoms, a professional has to inspect your vehicle to determine the root cause of the issue.

Note: If you notice your Toyota Highlander pulls to the light when driving, you should also fix the issue to ensure better driving.

Diagnosing Your Toyota Highlander Pulls to the Right When Driving

There are several steps you can take to diagnose the problem. Below are some diagnostic steps you can follow:

  • Checking the Tire Pressure: Uneven tire pressure is a common cause of pulling to the right. So, check the tire pressure on all four tires and ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. If there’s any variation, adjust the pressure to ensure that all tires have the same level.
  • Inspecting the Wheels: Misaligned wheels can cause your vehicle to pull to the right. Visually inspect your wheels for any damage or signs of wear and tear. Check that the wheels are aligned correctly and straight and not bent.
  • Examining Suspension Components: Worn or damaged suspension components can also cause pulling to the right. Have your suspension system checked by a professional to ensure that all the components, such as the shocks and struts, are in good condition.
  • Testing the Brakes: Brake problems can cause your vehicle to pull to the right. Have your brakes checked by a professional to ensure they are in good working condition. Ensure that the brake pads and rotors are in good shape, and that there is no uneven wear.
  • Road Test: After checking all the above, take your vehicle for a test drive to observe if the problem has been fixed. If the issue persists, take note of the speed and conditions in which the pulling occurs.

How to Fix Your Toyota Highlander Pulls to the Right When Driving?

If you’ve diagnosed the problem of your Toyota Highlander pulling to the right when driving, the next step is to take appropriate action to fix the issue. Below are some common fixes you can consider:

Step 1: Tire Rotation and Balancing

Uneven tire pressure can cause your vehicle to pull to the right. Tire rotation and balancing can help redistribute the tires’ weight, ensuring that they wear evenly. You can fix the problem by pulling to the right.

Step 2: Wheel Alignment

Misaligned wheels can also cause pulling to the right. A professional mechanic can adjust the alignment of your wheels to ensure that they are straight and pointing in the right direction. This can help to fix the problem of pulling to the right.

Step 3: Suspension Repairs and Replacements

Worn or damaged suspension components can cause your vehicle to pull to the right. A professional mechanic can inspect your suspension system and identify any components that need to be repaired or replaced. Replacing worn suspension components can help to fix the problem of pulling to the right.

Step 4: Brake Repairs and Replacements

Brake problems can also cause pulling to the right. A professional mechanic can inspect your brakes and identify any issues that need to be repaired or replaced. Fixing brake problems can help fix the problem of pulling to the right.

Maintaining Your Toyota Highlander Pulls to the Right When Driving

Maintaining your Toyota Highlander is important to prevent the issue of pulling to the right when driving. Below are some practices you can follow.

  • Regular Tire Maintenance: Uneven tire pressure can cause pulling to the right. To prevent this, regularly check and maintain the tire pressure of all four tires. Ensure that the pressure is consistent across all tires and matches the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Wheel Alignment Checks: Misaligned wheels can also cause pulling to the right. Have your wheel alignment checked by a professional every 10,000 miles or as the manufacturer recommends. If you notice any signs of misaligned wheels, such as uneven wear, have them checked immediately.
  • Suspension Inspections: Worn or damaged suspension components can cause pulling to the right. Regularly inspect the suspension system to identify any signs of wear and tear. Replace any worn components immediately to prevent the issue of pulling to the right.
  • Brake Maintenance: Brake problems can also cause pulling to the right. Regularly inspect the brake system to ensure that the brake pads, rotors, and calipers are in good working condition. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, have them replaced immediately.
  • Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups, can also help prevent the issue of pulling to the right. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your vehicle in good working condition and prevent any issues from arising.

Final Verdicts

In conclusion, there are multiple reasons why your Toyota Highlander may pull to the right when driving. These issues range from low tire pressure, misalignment, and incorrect weight balance.

So, you should address the reasons your Toyota Highlander pulls to the right When driving to ensure your car is driving safely. Some solutions, such as regularly checking tire pressure and getting an alignment service, can help with these issues.

Other solutions, such as wheel balancing, may require professional assistance. Taking care of your Toyota Highlander and promptly addressing any issues can help ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.