Pinpoint Tests

Diagnostic Routine A

Diagnostic Overview

Vehicle Drifts, Pulls

Vehicle drifts, pulls can be caused by the following:

- Unevenly loaded vehicle

- Tire pressure

- Tire forces

- Brake drag

- Incorrect vehicle alignment

- Bent/damaged vehicle components

- Steering system

Material(s)






Pinpoint Test

1. CHECK FOR UNEVENLY LOADED VEHICLE

1. Visually check the vehicle for an uneven loading condition.

Is the vehicle unevenly loaded?






2. CHECK THE TIRE PRESSURES AND TIRE CONDITIONS

1. Check the tire pressures. Refer to the Vehicle Certification (VC) label located on the driver door jamb. Check the tires for uneven/abnormal wear. REFER to Wheels and Tires.

Are the tire pressures and tire conditions OK?






3. ISOLATE TIRE DRIFT/PULL CONDITION

NOTE: It is important to determine if tire forces are the cause of a drift/pull condition. Changing the position of the wheel and tire assemblies on the vehicle may correct a drift/pull condition, however the tire drift/pull may return if the wheel and tire assemblies are repositioned during future service. A tire or tires that are causing a drift/pull should not be removed from service unless it has been determined that the tire(s) are worn beyond specification. REFER to Symptom Chart(s) Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures.

1. Cross the front wheel and tire assemblies from left-to-right. REFER to Wheel and Tire .

Does the vehicle drift/pull?








4. CHECK FOR BRAKE DRAG

1. Spin all 4 wheel and tire assemblies by hand and check for brake drag.

Do the wheels spin freely?








5. CHECK THE WHEEL ALIGNMENT

1. Using alignment equipment and the manufacturer's instructions, check the wheel alignment.

Is the wheel alignment out of specification?