Wheel alignment checklist.

1. VEHICLE PREPARATION AND INSPECTION.

• Check and correct the tire pressure according to the factory instruction.
• Remove any surplus load and ensure a neutral load condition.
• Carry out a visual check of the tires, rims and wheel suspension.
• Clean the rim edges to ensure correct mounting of the measuring equipment.

2. SUSPENSION AND STEERING GEAR INSPECTION.

• Check the steering knuckle balls, track control arms, gaiters, steering balls and bearings for play or wear.
• Check the driving height; sagged suspension springs affect the measurement.
• Repair defects before starting the alignment.

3. POSITIONING ON THE ALIGNMENT RACK.

• Position the vehicle straight and centered onto the alignment rack.
• Unlock the steering wheel; put the front wheels on turnplates, the rear wheels on slip-plates.
• Move the car slightly onto the springs to stabilize the suspension.

4. SETTING UP THE ALIGNMENT EQUIPMENT.

• Start the 3D or CCD system and select the correct vehicle data.
• Check the factory specifications for the wheel positions.
• Calibrate the system and make sure that sensors or cameras are correctly positioned.

5. MOUNTING THE MEASURING HEADS & RIM COMPENSATION.

• Carefully fix the measuring heads or reflectors to the rims.
• Perform a rim stroke compensation to neutralize any rim deviations.
• Ensure a clear view of the sensors or reflectors to the cameras.

6. CARRYING OUT THE ALIGNMENT MEASUREMENT.

• Carry out the measuring cycle as per the system’s instructions.
• Measure camber, caster, and toe for each wheel.
• Analyze the measurement report; determine which angles should be adjusted.

7. ADJUSTING THE REAR WHEELS (IF ADJUSTABLE).

• Start by adjusting camber, followed by toe.
• Use eccentric bolts, adjustment arms or adjusting screws.
• Correct the thrust angle up to nearly 0°.
• Recheck the measurements after every adjustment.

8. ADJUSTING THE FRONT WHEELS.

• First adjust caster (if adjustable), then camber and finally toe.
• Work symmetrical and keep the steering wheel in the driving straight ahead position (use the steering-wheel lock).
• Adjust both tie rods proportionally to keep the steering wheel centric.
• Check after each intermediate step on the measurement screen.

9. FIXING AND LOCKING.

• Tighten all the bolts, nuts and lock nuts using the correct torque.
• Use a torque wrench; avoid pneumatic wrenches for fine-tuning.
• Replace corroded or damaged adjusting screws, if necessary.

10. FINAL MEASUREMENT AND REPORTING.

• Carry out a control measurement to confirm the final values.
• Generate a pre- and post-report using the alignment software.
• Document the report for the customers and for internal use.

11. TEST DRIVE AND FINALIZING.

• Make a test drive on a flat road; check the wheel position, driving straight ahead and steering-wheel return.
• Correct if necessary by fine-tuning.
• Check if the ADAS systems require recalibration after the alignment (cameras, radars).
• Finalize with customer information and professional advice.