What Does Four-Wheel Alignment Adjust?

[DiLena]

Four-wheel alignment adjusts the following parameters: 1. Caster angle: Function: Enhances straight-line stability and steering return. 2. Kingpin inclination: Function: Improves stability and steering return. 3. Camber angle (wheel camber): Function: Increases tire contact area and counteracts adverse effects. 4. Toe angle (toe-out): Function: Offsets the negative effects caused by camber (or negative camber). Situations requiring four-wheel alignment include: 1. Driving performance: The vehicle's driving performance is compromised (most notably felt as pulling to one side or lack of steering wheel return). 2. Chassis and suspension: Damage to the chassis or suspension due to an accident. 3. Tires: Abnormal tire wear (though it's important to consider whether abnormal tire pressure is the cause—typically, overinflation accelerates wear on the center tread, while underinflation accelerates wear on the outer edges; if wear is uneven on one side, it may indicate incorrect camber angle). 4. Components: Removal or replacement of axle or suspension parts.