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Uneven Tire Wear & Pulling to the Right on 2021 Audi S5

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:13 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Audi S5 Sportback

Hi all, I'm looking for some input on my 2021 Audi S5 Sportback. It has about 30,000 miles on it, and I've started noticing some concerning issues with the tires and steering.

My front right tire is showing significantly more wear on the outer edge compared to the other tires, which seem to be wearing pretty evenly. Also, the car has developed a noticeable pull to the right, even on a flat road, requiring constant steering correction.

I had the tires rotated recently, but the pulling persists, and the wear pattern on the new front right (which was previously a rear tire) is already starting to show. Could this be an alignment issue, or something more serious with the suspension? Any advice on what to check or what might be causing this would be great. Thanks!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:13 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer: Uneven tire wear combined with a vehicle pulling to one side is a classic symptom of an alignment issue or a worn suspension component. Addressing this promptly is important for safety, tire longevity, and fuel efficiency.

  1. Primary Causes:

    • Wheel Alignment: This is the most common cause. Incorrect toe, camber, or caster settings can cause tires to wear unevenly and the vehicle to pull. Hitting potholes or curbs can knock an alignment out of spec.
    • Worn Suspension Components:
      • Control Arm Bushings: Worn or torn bushings can allow excessive movement, altering alignment angles under load.
      • Ball Joints: Play in ball joints can lead to instability and pulling.
      • Tie Rod Ends: Worn inner or outer tie rod ends can cause steering play and affect alignment.
    • Damaged Steering Components: Less common, but a bent steering rack or other steering component damage could also cause pulling.
    • Tire Issues: While you rotated them, a defective tire (e.g., a separated belt) can sometimes cause a pull, but the uneven wear pattern strongly suggests an alignment or suspension issue.

  2. What You Should Do:

    • Professional Inspection: Visually inspect the suspension components around the affected wheel for obvious damage or torn rubber. However, a professional inspection is crucial.
    • Alignment Check: Request a full four-wheel alignment check. This will provide a printout of your current alignment angles.

  3. When to See a Shop:

    • Immediately. Driving with significant uneven tire wear will quickly destroy your tires, which are expensive. More importantly, compromised steering and suspension components can affect vehicle handling, stability, and safety, especially during emergency maneuvers. A reputable shop can perform a thorough suspension inspection and then a precise alignment, replacing any worn parts as necessary before the alignment.
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