Primary Angles
This angle is the side‑to‑side vertical tilt of the wheel.
camber
This angle is formed between the SAI and the camber line.
Included Angle
This alignment type adjusts only the front wheels.
Front‑end (Two‑wheel) Alignment
These small tapered pieces are added between components to adjust angles.
shims
This must be done before an alignment to ensure the vehicle is level and within spec.
Check/Adjust Ride Height
This angle is the forward or backward tilt of the steering axis when viewed from the side.
caster
This angle describes the direction the rear wheels are pointed.
Thrust Angle
This alignment measures all four wheels but usually adjusts the front only.
Thrust‑angle Alignment
These bolts have off‑center pivots to change camber or caster.
Eccentric Bolts
This condition often results in “crab walking.”
Rear Thrust Angle Issue
When the fronts of the wheels are closer together than the rears, this condition exists.
Toe-in
This diagnostic measurement shows how far one wheel sits forward or backward on the same axle.
Setback
This alignment adjusts all four wheels.
Four‑wheel Alignment
This sleeve type is used on some ball joints to change camber.
Ball Joint Adjusting Sleeve
This sensor often requires recalibration after an alignment.
Steering Angle Sensor
This angle is the most responsible for rapid tire wear if incorrect.
Toe
This angle determines how sharply the inner wheel turns during cornering.
Toe‑out on Turns
This type is most common today on vehicles with a solid rear axle.
Thrust‑angle Alignment
Tie rod ends are used primarily to adjust this angle.
Toe
Bent steering arms will usually show up as an incorrect reading in this secondary angle.
Toe‑Out‑On‑Turns
These three angles make up the primary alignment angles.
Camber, Caster, Toe
This vertical measurement must be checked before alignment and is measured at factory‑specified points.
Ride Height
Modern alignment machines always measure this many wheels, even if only the front is adjusted.
All four wheels
Alignment adjustments must be performed in this specific order, starting with the rear.
Rear: caster → camber → toe, then Front: caster → camber → toe
Incorrect readings in this angle pair often indicate a bent knuckle or damaged suspension parts.
SAI and Included Angle