Two of the most important in your auto's alignment are caster and camber. Both terms refer to the positioning of your vehicle's wheels relative to the steering angle. When misaligned, they affect your steering, handling, and tire wear. Here is more information about what caster and camber do and why they need periodic adjustments to keep your auto-aligned.

What Are Caster and Camber? 

Caster and camber have some key differences in how they relate to the steering angle.

Caster

Caster refers to the adjustment in front or behind the steering angle. It can be negative or positive. For a positive caster, think of a motorcycle where the wheel is in front of the fork and handlebars. For negative caster, think of a shopping cart where the wheels trail behind where they attach to the cart.

Camber 

Camber is the side-to-side angle of the tire. Looking at the wheels from the front, you will notice the top of the tires will either lean in or out relative to the wheel well. Positive camber is when the wheels lean outward, and negative camber is when the wheels lean inward.

What Is Caster and Camber Misalignment? 

Camber can be positive, negative, or neutral, depending on your vehicle. Misalignment refers to when your vehicle's wheels are out of spec. Most modern cars use positive caster, at least with the front wheels. If your car's caster is too far toward the negative range, then you will likely have difficulty handling it. A slight lean in the other direction can have handling and steering benefits. However, too much will affect your car's stability.

What Does an Auto Alignment Do for Caster and Camber? 

Some cars have pre-fixed caster and camber and do not need adjustment except for unusual situations. After you replace a major steering or suspension component or after an accident are common examples. Some cars need regular fine-tuning of these two items to compensate for age and wear. Common signs of caster and camber problems are if your car pulls to one side while you drive or your tires have excessive wear on one side.

Caster and camber inspections are two of several things technicians check during auto alignment services. If one or both are out of alignment, your vehicle could become difficult to handle. The tires will also wear out faster. Caster and camber misalignment can also affect other parts of the steering systems. If you feel your vehicle handles poorly or your tires have strange wear patterns, visit an auto-alignment shop for an inspection.

For more info, contact alignment services. 

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