Pulling Under Braking

[MWR01]

I have a 2004 AWD Sienna with 70,000 miles which pulls to one side when braking.

The brake pads are about a year old now and all are wearing evenly. The vehicle has been aligned at a reliable alignment shop and tracks dead straight. So I don't think either the brakes or alignment is involved here.

When I first apply the brakes the Sienna pulls slightly to the left while the steering wheel turns slightly to the right. Once this intial pull occurs, the vehicle seems to brake without any further pulling; it only occurs at first application of the brakes. The effect is more pronounced the higher the speed, but still only when the brakes are applied. It doesn't seem dangerous, but it doesn't seem normal either. I've owned it since new (May 2003) and this is a recent development.

Anyone have any idea what might be happening? Is it anything to do with the suspension, or tie rods, or control arms, etc? Would appreciate any help diagnosing this.

[MWR01]

FWIW, it looks like it's the lower control arm bushings that are worn, more on the right side than the left. When I hit the brakes, the right front wheel moves backwards, turning the steering wheel and pulling the van in that direction. Will have bushings replaced on both sides.

[shortlid]

Could be blockage in brake lines not alowing as much flow/clamping force to one of the front calipers.

[MWR01]

We checked all the brake lines too, and they seemed fine. The new lower control arms and bushings fixed everything. It drives and brakes straight and stable now.