Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Pre-Alignment Instructions
Before making wheel alignment adjustments, check the following:
- All tires of same construction and tread style, approximately equal in tread wear and overall diameter, radial and axial runout not excessive, and inflation at manufacturer's specifications.
- Steering linkage and suspension must not have excessive looseness. Check for wear in tie rod ends and ball joints. Springs must not be sagging. Control arm and strut rod bushings must not have excessive play. SeeΒ Fig 1.
- Car must be on level floor with full fuel tank, no passenger load, spare tire in place and no load in trunk. Bounce front and rear end of car a number of times, releasing bumper at bottom of down stroke. Check that car is at normal running height.
- Ensure that steering wheel is centered with front wheels in straight ahead position. If required, shorten one tie rod adjusting sleeve and lengthen opposite sleeve. SeeΒ Fig 2.
- Wheel bearings must be properly adjusted and lug nuts tightened to manufacturer's specifications. Adjust camber, caster and toe-in in order. Follow instructions of alignment equipment manufacturer.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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