Ever notice your RV subtly but persistently drifting to one side, making you constantly correct the steering to keep it on course? It’s one of those annoying, ongoing issues that can turn a peaceful road trip into a chore. This common problem, known as “steering pull,” might not be dramatic, but it’s a nuisance that can take the joy out of your drive.

What Is Steering Pull?

Steering pull occurs when your RV drifts to the left or right while you’re driving straight, requiring you to constantly adjust to keep the vehicle centered in your lane. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, if left unaddressed, steering pull can lead to increased driver fatigue, uneven tire wear, and, in some cases, even safety hazards.

So, why is your RV trying to take the scenic route on its own? Let’s explore some of the usual suspects.

The Usual Suspects: Causes of Steering Pull

• Wheel Alignment Woes
  Like us, our RVs need regular check-ups, and wheel alignment is one of those critical health checks. Over time, everyday wear and tear or an unfortunate encounter with a pothole can throw your alignment out of whack. When your wheels aren’t aligned correctly, your RV may start to pull in one direction, making your drive less enjoyable and more of a workout for your arms.
• Tire Troubles
  Something as simple as uneven tire pressure can make a big difference in how your RV handles. If one side’s tires are underinflated or overinflated, you’ll notice your RV pulling toward the lower-pressure side. Regularly checking and maintaining your tire pressure can keep you on the straight and narrow. Additionally, manufacturing defects can sometimes cause a front tire to induce a pull even when inflated correctly. If you suspect a problem with your tires, you can swap them from side to side. If the coach now pulls to the opposite side, that points to a problem with the tire on the side of the pull.

• Brakes That Don’t Play Nice
  Your RV’s brakes are crucial, and if one is sticking or dragging, it could be causing that annoying pull. This is often most noticeable when braking, but it can affect your drive even when not hitting the brakes. It’s always a good idea to check your brakes if you notice any pulling, just to be safe. If you have a steering pull, you can also use an infrared thermometer to compare the temperature of brakes on the left side to those on the right side of your RV. If your brakes are sticking, then they will be measurably warmer on the side the coach wants to pull.

• Suspension System Slip-Ups
  Worn-out suspension components can also lead to steering pull. Your RV’s suspension is supposed to keep everything balanced and smooth, but if parts like control arm bushings or shocks are worn, your ride can get a bit bumpy and off course.

• Weight Distribution Disasters
  Have you ever packed a suitcase so lopsided that it keeps tipping over? Well, the same concept applies to your RV. If your load is unevenly distributed, with more weight on one side, you might find yourself constantly correcting your steering. Make sure your cargo is balanced to avoid this problem.

• Mis-Adjusted Steering Control

If your coach is equipped with a self-centering steering control device, proper adjustment is required to make sure that the steering control keeps you pointed straight down the road. If it was never adjusted correct or has come out of adjustment, the steering control unit can send you off track. A properly adjusted steering control, on the other hand, will help you maintain straight-ahead steering and will make driving easier.

• Roads That Aren’t Quite Right
  Sometimes, it’s not your RV’s fault at all. Many roads have a slight crown, higher in the middle for drainage, which naturally causes a bit of pull to the right. While this is normal, if the pull feels excessive, it might be worth checking out some of the other potential causes.

Why OEM Parts Might Not Be Enough

Most RVs come from the factory equipped with basic Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) steering and suspension components. While these parts are adequate for general use, they often don’t provide the high performance and stability needed for a smooth and controlled ride. That’s why so many RV owners experience issues like steering pull, excessive sway, or poor handling, especially as their vehicles age or drive in challenging conditions.

This is where SuperSteer comes in to help! At SuperSteer, we specialize in upgrading your RV’s steering and suspension systems to ensure you get the performance and comfort you deserve. Whether it’s high-quality shocks, sway bars, or steering stabilizers, we’ve got the parts that will transform your driving experience from frustrating to fabulous.

How to Get Back in Control

So, what’s the solution? The good news is that most causes of steering pull are relatively easy to diagnose and fix with the right expertise and equipment. Regular maintenance, like wheel alignments and tire checks, can keep your RV running smoothly and straight.

If your RV has started to develop a mind of its own, and you’re tired of fighting to keep it on course, it might be time to dig a little deeper into what’s going on under the hood (or under the chassis, in this case). At SuperSteer, we’re all about helping you get the most out of your RV experience without the hassle of steering pull. We’ve got the parts, the knowledge, and the passion to get you back on the road safely.

Ready to Take Back the Wheel?

Don’t let your RV take you on an unplanned detour. If steering pull is putting a damper on your travels, head to SuperSteer to learn how we can help you keep things straight—literally! Whether it’s expert advice, top-quality parts, or just some friendly guidance, we’ve got you covered.

Safer and Happy travels, and remember—when you’re in control, the journey is much sweeter!