What is Camber?
Camber refers to the angle at which the wheels of your vehicle tilt, either towards the vehicle’s frame (negative camber) or away from it (positive camber). Incorrect camber can result in uneven tire wear, reduced stability, and compromised handling.
Why Adjust Camber?
There are a few reasons why you may need to adjust camber:
- After a collision or accident
- When replacing suspension components
- When experiencing uneven tire wear
Tools Required
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- Jacks
- Jack stands
- Wrenches or sockets
- Tape measure
Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle
Park your vehicle on a flat and level surface. Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels to prevent any accidental movement.
Step 2: Lift the Vehicle
Using jacks, carefully lift the vehicle off the ground. Place jack stands under the recommended vehicle contact points for added safety.
Step 3: Locate Camber Adjustment Points
Identify the camber adjustment points on your vehicle. These may vary depending on the make and model, but they are usually found on the upper or lower control arms of the suspension system.
Step 4: Loosen Adjustment Bolts
Using the appropriate wrenches or sockets, loosen the adjustment bolts on the control arms. This will allow you to change the camber angle.
Step 5: Adjust Camber Angle
With the adjustment bolts loose, you can now adjust the camber angle. Use a tape measure to measure the current camber angle, and make necessary changes to align it within the recommended specifications provided by your vehicle manufacturer. Turning the bolts clockwise or counterclockwise will usually change the camber angle.
Step 6: Tighten Adjustment Bolts
Once you have achieved the desired camber angle, securely tighten the adjustment bolts on the control arms. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this can strip the threads or cause other damage.
Step 7: Test the Alignment
Lower your vehicle and take it for a test drive. Pay attention to any vibrations, pulling to one side, or irregular tire wear. If everything feels and looks good, your wheel alignment should now be properly adjusted.
Remember, if you’re unsure about adjusting the camber yourself, it’s always best to seek the assistance of a professional mechanic or alignment specialist. They have the knowledge and tools to ensure your wheel alignment is accurate and optimized for your vehicle’s specific requirements.
By following these steps and understanding the importance of camber adjustments, you can help prolong the life of your tires, improve vehicle performance, and maintain a safer driving experience.