SOS Mechanic Certification Practice Exam

When a vehicle exhibits pulling during driving, the most crucial initial check is wheel alignment. Proper wheel alignment ensures that the wheels are positioned correctly in relation to each other and the vehicle's frame. If the alignment is off, it can cause the vehicle to pull to one side, making it difficult to maintain a straight driving path.

Checking the wheel alignment helps identify whether misalignment is contributing to the pulling issue. Misalignment can occur due to factors like hitting a pothole or curb, tire wear, or other driving conditions, necessitating a re-evaluation of how the wheels are angled. Some signs of improper alignment include uneven tire wear or a steering wheel that is not centered when driving straight.

While other checks like tire pressure, brake operation, and suspension condition are important factors in vehicle performance and can contribute to a variety of handling issues, addressing alignment first is essential when dealing with directional pulling. Proper alignment is foundational for stability and control, making it the first aspect to investigate when a vehicle shows these symptoms.

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