What could cause a vehicle to pull to one side after tire rotation?

When a vehicle pulls to one side after a tire rotation, one possible cause is indeed related to the construction of the tires, particularly if they are radial ply tires. Radial tires have a specific construction that allows them to provide a smoother ride and better handling. However, if one of the tires is worn differently or has a manufacturing defect, this can result in uneven wear characteristics. When these tires are rotated, the differences in wear or construction can cause the vehicle to pull to one side, as the road contact and grip can vary between the tires.

In contrast, while unbalanced tires, low air pressure, and a misaligned steering column can also lead to pulling, they typically produce more bizarre handling symptoms rather than a consistent pull immediately following a tire rotation. Unbalanced tires might cause vibration, low air pressure can lead to a general lack of stability, and misalignment can cause uneven tire wear, leading to handling issues over time rather than directly after rotation. Therefore, the unique nature of radial tire construction and how it interacts with uneven wear makes it a sensible and direct reason for a pull in the vehicle's handling after a tire rotation.