Wheels and Tires: Testing and Inspection

INSPECTION
Steering and vibration problems are not always the result of alignment. An additional problem to be checked is tire lead due to worn or improperly manufactured tires. "Lead" is the deviation of the vehicle from a straight path on a level road without hand pressure on the steering wheel.

To insure correct alignment readings and alignment specifications, the following checks and inspections should be made:

1. Check tire for proper inflation and thread wear.
2. Check front wheel bearings for looseness and adjust if necessary.
3. Check for loose ball joints and tie rod ends. If excessive looseness is noted, replace defective parts before adjusting toe.
4. Check for wheel and tire assembly runout.
5. Check trim heights. If not within specifications, correct before adjusting toe.
6. Check for proper operation of the Electronic Level Control system.
7. Check for improperly operating strut dampers.
8. Check for loose control arms.
9. Check for loose or missing stabilizer bar components.
10. Consideration must be given to excess loads, such as tool boxes, etc. If excess load is normally carried in vehicle, it should remain during alignment checks.
11. Consideration must be given to the equipment being used to adjust alignment. Be sure to follow the equipment manufacturer's instructions.
12. The car MUST be on a level surface both fore-and-aft and sideways.