Accidents

Car Pulling to One Side After an Accident? Here's Why

Even a 'small' impact can knock your wheels out of line. If the steering wheel is off-center or the car drifts, don't ignore it.

By NewGen Auto Repair, Santa Ana · Updated October 22, 2026

Common causes

Alignment knocked out — the simplest fix
Bent tie rod, control arm or strut — common after hitting a curb or a front-corner hit
Damaged tire or wheel — a bulge, bent rim or broken belt
Frame or unibody damage — the mounting points themselves moved

Why it matters

A car that pulls wears tires quickly, handles unpredictably in an emergency and can hide structural damage that affects crash protection.

What we do

We inspect suspension parts, check the wheels and tires, measure the structure if needed and then align the car. After an accident, these repairs are normally part of your insurance claim.

FAQ

Can an alignment fix pulling after an accident?

Sometimes. But if a suspension part or the frame is bent, an alignment alone won't hold — the part has to be replaced or straightened first.

This article is general information, not legal or insurance advice. Rules and policies change — check your policy and the official source, or ask us.

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*Deductible assistance of up to $1,000 is available only on insurance claims where your insurance company has approved a repair amount of $8,000 or more and the repair is performed in accordance with that insurer-approved estimate (California Penal Code § 551(b)). We never increase a repair estimate to cover a deductible. Not available on customer-pay repairs. Ask us for details before your repair begins.

**Free computer diagnostic scan: we read and explain your vehicle's trouble codes at no charge, no purchase required. If the problem needs in-depth testing (labor), we give you a written estimate and get your approval before any paid work, as California law requires.

†Warranty: limited lifetime warranty on our collision, body and paint workmanship for as long as you own the vehicle; 24 months / 24,000 miles (whichever comes first) on mechanical repairs, parts and labor. Not covered: normal wear, new damage, abuse or neglect, rust or chips from road debris, and customer-supplied parts. Warranty terms are written on your invoice.

‡Accident towing: you pay nothing out of pocket when you have collision coverage or the other driver is at fault — we pay the tow and bill the insurance company. If no insurance covers the tow, we tell you the price before the truck is sent.

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