Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Preliminary Inspection

Prior to checking or adjusting front suspension alignment, inspect suspension components and wheel bearings for damage or excessive wear, and replace as needed. Ensure tire pressure is properly adjusted, then raise and release front bumper several times to allow vehicle to assume normal ride height. The following items should be inspected prior to performing wheel alignment procedures:
1. Check all tires for proper inflation pressure.
2. Check hubs and bearings for excessive wear.
3. Check ball joints and tie rod ends for looseness and wear.
4. Check for bent wheel rims, wheel runout, and defective tires (belt shift).
5. Measure vehicle trim height.
6. Check all suspension and steering components for looseness and wear.
7. Check for excessive cargo loads, correct if necessary.