Pre-Alignment Checks

2009 Honda Pilot Touring, 3.5 4SECTION Pre-Alignment Checks

For proper inspection and adjustment of the wheel alignment, do these checks:

  1. Release the parking brake to avoid an incorrect measurement.
  2. Make sure the suspension is not modified.
  3. Make sure the fuel tank is full, and that the spare tire, the jack, and the tools are in place on the vehicle.
  4. Check the tire size and pressure.

    Tire size:Β 

    Front/Rear: P245/65R17Β 

    Tire pressure (at cold):Β 

    Front/Rear: 220 kPa (2.2 kgf/cmΒ 2Β  , 32 psi)Β 

  5. Check the runout of the wheels and tires (see WHEEL RUNOUT INSPECTIONΒ  ).
  6. Check the suspension ball joints. (Raise and support the vehicle (see LIFT AND SUPPORT POINTS ). Hold a tire with your hands, and move it up and down and right and left to check for movement.)
    Fig 1: Identifying Suspension Ball Joints
    G05962682Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  7. Before doing alignment inspections, be sure to remove all extra weight from the vehicle, and no one should be inside the vehicle (driver or passengers).
  8. Lower the vehicle to the ground. Bounce the vehicle up and down several times to stabilize the suspension.
  9. Check that the steering column is set at the center tilt and telescopic position.
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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.