Wheel alignment, also known as tire alignment, is an important aspect of maintaining your Subaru's handling, tire wear, and overall safety. Proper wheel alignment ensures that your vehicle's wheels are correctly aligned with each other and with the road. Here's what you need to know about Subaru wheel alignment:

1. Types of Wheel Alignment:

  • Front-end Alignment: This aligns the front wheels of your vehicle. It's suitable for vehicles with a non-adjustable rear suspension.

  • Four-Wheel Alignment: Also known as a full alignment, this aligns all four wheels of your vehicle. Subaru vehicles with all-wheel drive (AWD) often benefit from this type of alignment to ensure optimal performance and tire wear.

2. Signs That Your Subaru Needs Wheel Alignment:

  • Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear: If you notice uneven tire wear, such as the inside or outside edges wearing faster, it may indicate poor alignment.

  • Steering Wheel Off-Center: A crooked steering wheel when driving straight is a common sign of misalignment.

  • My Subaru Dealer Charged $89.95 for an alignment - Suspension/Brakes - LegacyGT.com

  • Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If your Subaru pulls to the left or right when you're driving on a straight road, alignment may be an issue.

  • Vibrations or Handling Issues: Experiencing vibrations or handling problems can be attributed to alignment problems.

3. Subaru's Recommendations:

  • Subaru provides recommended wheel alignment specifications for each of their vehicle models. These specifications ensure that the alignment is set to the manufacturer's standards for optimal performance and safety.

4. Regular Maintenance:

  • It's a good practice to have your Subaru's wheel alignment checked regularly, especially after hitting potholes or curbs, replacing suspension components, or installing new tires.

  • Alignment may be included as part of your regular maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. Follow these recommendations.

5. Professional Alignment Services:

  • It's essential to have your Subaru's wheel alignment checked and corrected by a professional mechanic or an auto service center with expertise in Subaru vehicles.

  • They will use specialized equipment to measure and adjust the camber, caster, and toe settings to align your wheels correctly.

6. DIY Checks:

  • While professional alignment is essential, you can do some basic checks at home. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated, and visually inspect them for signs of uneven wear. Additionally, observe how your Subaru drives, checking for any of the signs mentioned above.

7. Alignment Adjustments:

  • When adjustments are made during a wheel alignment, it may involve adjusting the camber (vertical tilt of the wheels), caster (forward or backward tilt), and toe (inward or outward tilt). These adjustments ensure that your Subaru tracks straight and handles properly.

Proper wheel alignment not only helps extend the life of your tires but also improves your Subaru's handling and safety. If you suspect alignment issues or experience any of the signs mentioned, it's best to consult with a professional mechanic or a Subaru service center to perform a thorough inspection and, if necessary, correct the alignment to manufacturer specifications.