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.
Vehicle Checks
Before making wheel alignment adjustments:
- Tire pressure must be inflated to manufacturer's recommended specification. Tires should be equal in size and type. Runout must not be excessive. Tires and wheels should be in balance.
- Wheel bearings must be properly adjusted. Steering linkage and suspension must not have excessive wear and/or looseness. Check for wear in tie rod ends and ball joints.
- Steering gear box must not have excessive play. Check and adjust to manufacturer's specification.
- Vehicle must be at correct ride height with full fuel load and spare tire in vehicle. No extra load should be on vehicle. See RIDE HEIGHT under ALIGNMENT PROCEDURES.
- Vehicle must be level with floor and with suspension settled. Jounce front and rear of vehicle several times and allow it to settle to normal ride height.
- Ensure steering wheel spokes are centered with front wheels in straight-ahead position. Correct by shortening one tie rod adjusting sleeve and lengthening opposite sleeve in equal amounts.
- Ensure wheel lug nuts are tightened to proper specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
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:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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