Why Does a Jeep Drift on the Highway?

Tires, alignment and brakes all keep your Jeep on the straight and narrow.

Several factors may contribute to a Jeep vehicle drifting, or failing to drive a straight line without steering effort, especially at highway speeds. Among these factors are tire pressure, wheel alignment and brake adjustment.

Tire Pressure

Uneven tire pressure is the most common cause of vehicle drift. The rolling resistance of a tire increases as air pressure decreases. If the left and right tires on an axle, especially the front axle, do not have equal air pressure the vehicle will likely pull towards the lower-pressure tire.

Wheel Alignment

Proper wheel alignment is necessary in order for a Jeep to drive straight. Depending on the specific type of front axle and steering system, there are different types of adjustments that can be made for an alignment. Wheel alignment is a job for trained professionals.

Brake Adjustment

In order for a Jeep vehicle to track a straight line, it is necessary for the brakes at each wheel to be properly adjusted and functioning. If any wheel has excessive brake drag or if the brakes fail to release properly, this will cause the vehicle to pull in the direction of the faulty brake and wheel. Have the brakes checked professionally.

References

• "Jeep Cherokee 1984 thru 2001"; Henderson, B., and Haynes, J.; 2005