Steering wheel alignment, as the name suggests, is the process of adjusting a vehicle’s suspension and steering geometry. Hence, the tires make proper contact with the road and point in the intended direction. It sets all four wheels to the manufacturer’s specifications. Steering alignment focuses on condition, centering, and feedback to ensure the steering wheel remains straight when the car tracks straight.
Have you been looking for a steering wheel alignment service but are unsure where to begin? You are not alone. In this wheel alignment guide, we will outline everything you need to know about steering wheel alignment.
Key Angles Adjusted in a Wheel Alignment
Steering wheel alignment is a rigorous process in which the technician measures and calibrates the three primary suspension and steering angles: camber, caster, and toe. Camber is the vertical tilt of the tire as viewed from the front or rear, and toe is the inward or outward angle of the wheels as viewed from above that keeps them parallel. Caster is the tilt of the steering axis as viewed from the side, balancing steering stability and cornering.
Inspection and Setup
When you bring your vehicle in for a wheel alignment, the technician begins by inspecting the tires, checking the air pressure, and examining the suspension for signs of wear. To perform a thorough inspection, they place the vehicle on an alignment rack and carefully check each part.
After placing the vehicle on the computer-controlled rack, they attach the sensors with reflectors, measure sensor height, and ensure proper alignment for all four wheels. However, all alignment computers measure the current camber, caster, and toe angle and compare them with factory data.
Mechanical Adjustments
After placing the vehicle on a computer-controlled rack, they begin making mechanical adjustments to the suspension components, such as turning the tie rod and moving the cam bolts on the control arms to adjust camber and caster. Most technicians adjust the rear wheels first, then the front wheels.
Once the adjustment is complete, they verify the alignment and take a test drive. The computer readings are checked to turn green, the steering wheel is locked and centered, and a road test is performed.
Common Signs You Need an Alignment
It is crucial to recognize the signs that you need an alignment because ignoring them can compromise the wheel alignment, suspension, and the vehicle’s overall performance. Common signs that you need an alignment include vehicle pulling, off-center steering, vibrations, and uneven tire wear.
Vehicle pull occurs when your car drifts or pulls to one side on a flat, straight road. With off-center steering, the steering wheel sits crooked or is turned to one side even when you are driving straight. The steering wheel may also shake or vibrate, especially at higher speeds, or you may experience premature or irregular tire wear, with wear appearing along the inner or outer edge of the tire.
Bottom Line
Proper wheel alignment adjusts your vehicle’s suspension angles, including camber, caster, and toe, so your tires contact the road evenly and the car tracks straight. Additionally, it extends tire life, improves fuel efficiency, enhances handling, smooths the ride, and lowers repair costs.
