Do subarus need 4 wheel alignment?

Yes. Subarus equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) generally benefit from a full four-wheel alignment rather than only adjusting the front end, to maintain even tire wear and stable handling across all four corners.

Alignment needs can vary by model year, suspension design, and whether rear alignment points are adjustable. This article explains why four-wheel alignment matters for Subaru AWD vehicles, what the process typically involves, and how model specifics can influence the service.

Why four-wheel alignment matters for Subaru AWD

All-wheel-drive Subarus rely on coordinated wheel angles at the front and rear to maintain predictable handling, traction, and tire wear. The alignment angles that matter most—front toe, rear toe, camber, and the overall thrust angle—work together to keep the drivetrain synchronized with the chassis, particularly in wet or snowy conditions where grip is already challenged.

Without proper alignment on all four wheels, you may see uneven tire wear, a subtle pull or tug in the steering, and increased stress on suspension components over time. For Subaru owners, keeping all four corners within factory-spec angles helps preserve AWD performance and overall driving confidence.

Full four-wheel alignment checks cover multiple parameters that affect how the wheels point and how the vehicle travels straight. The following list outlines the key settings typically addressed in a complete AWD alignment.

• Front toe alignment


• Rear toe alignment


• Camber (and occasionally caster, where adjustable)


• Thrust angle and steering wheel centering

When these angles are brought into spec, tire wear is more even, steering feels more precise, and the AWD system can distribute power as designed. That makes a four-wheel alignment especially important after suspension work or after hitting large potholes or curbs.

What the alignment process involves

A typical four-wheel alignment for an AWD Subaru begins with a thorough check of suspension components and tires, followed by measurements on a balancing rack using a four-wheel alignment system. The process is designed to reproduce real-world driving conditions as closely as possible to ensure durable results.

1. Weight the vehicle on the alignment rack with typical fuel level and optional passengers to mirror normal loading.


2. Calibrate the alignment equipment to the vehicle's factory specifications for the specific model and year.


3. Adjust front toe to the recommended specification; if rear toe is adjustable on the model, adjust rear toe as well.


4. Check rear camber and other rear alignment points where applicable; adjust if the design allows and parts permit.


5. Center the steering wheel and verify the vehicle tracks straight on a test drive; perform final measurements.


6. Provide a printed alignment report and discuss maintenance intervals or any parts that may need service if wear is present.

Because some Subaru models have limited rear adjustment options, technicians may recommend replacing worn components or using shims when rear toe cannot be adjusted. The goal is to bring all four wheels into spec while preserving the vehicle’s AWD characteristics.

Model-specific notes and expectations

Subaru models vary in how much rear alignment adjustability they offer, and the allowable ranges can shift by generation and trim. In many generations, front toe is readily adjustable and rear toe may be adjustable on some models, with rear camber adjustments possible on select suspensions. If your model has fixed rear toe, a technician will still strive to align to spec by adjusting other adjustable points and ensuring the steering wheel is properly centered.

For owners, the takeaway is to consult the service manual or ask an independent or dealer technician about rear alignment options for your exact model year. After tire changes, suspension work, or significant impacts, a full four-wheel alignment is a prudent step to maintain AWD performance.

When to schedule a four-wheel alignment

Schedule a four-wheel alignment if you notice uneven tire wear, a consistent steering pull, or after pothole impacts, curb damage, or suspension repairs. For Subaru AWD vehicles, requesting a full four-wheel alignment helps ensure the drivetrain remains synchronized with the vehicle’s steering and handling characteristics, especially in adverse driving conditions.

Summary

For Subaru vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive, a full four-wheel alignment is generally recommended to promote even tire wear, stable handling, and longevity of drivetrain components. While some rear adjustments may be limited by model year, technicians typically aim to bring all four wheels into factory-spec alignment. Regular checks, particularly after tire changes or suspension work, help sustain AWD performance across varying road conditions.

Do Subaru's need 4 wheel alignment?

Your Subaru's performance and safety depend on many factors, including the alignment of your wheels. Wheel alignment is key to your vehicle handling well, driving straight and your tires wearing evenly. Misaligned wheels can cause a multitude of problems for your vehicle's performance and safety.

Do AWD cars need 4 wheel alignment?

Yes, most all-wheel drive (AWD) cars require a four-wheel alignment because they have independent rear suspensions with adjustable components that need to be aligned with the front wheels. A four-wheel alignment ensures the car handles properly, promotes even tire wear, and maximizes fuel efficiency, unlike a two-wheel alignment which is only for the front wheels.
 
Why AWD cars need a four-wheel alignment

• Adjustable rear suspension: Most modern AWD vehicles have a fully independent suspension, including the rear, which can be adjusted. A four-wheel alignment adjusts both the front and rear wheels to ensure they are all pointed in the same direction. 
• Rear wheel alignment affects the front: The alignment of the rear wheels is crucial because it sets the direction for the front wheels. If the rear is misaligned, the front wheels cannot be properly aligned to create a straight-tracking vehicle. 
• Performance and safety: A proper alignment improves handling, stability, and steering responsiveness. Without it, an AWD car can drift, have poor high-speed stability, and feel like it's resisting itself when turning. 
• Tire and fuel efficiency: A four-wheel alignment prevents uneven tire wear and can increase tire life. It also helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing drag and resistance. 

When to get an alignment

• After new tires: It's highly recommended to get a four-wheel alignment after getting new tires to prevent uneven wear from the start. 
• After hitting a significant bump or pothole: Hitting a curb or a large pothole can knock your alignment out of place. 
• As a preventative measure: It's a good idea to have your alignment checked annually, or every two to three years, as part of regular maintenance. 
• If you notice problems: Get an alignment if you notice signs of misalignment, such as uneven tire wear or if the car pulls to one side while driving. 

Can I replace just two tires on a Subaru?

You can replace only two tires on a Subaru, but it's crucial to ensure the new and old tires have a tread depth difference of no more than 2/322 / 322/32 of an inch to avoid damaging the all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. If a new tire is significantly larger in circumference, it can put undue stress on the drivetrain. The safest option is to have the new tire shaved to match the tread depth of the other tires, or replace all four if the remaining tires are too worn. 
When replacing two tires is an option

• The other tires are nearly new: If the remaining tires have very little wear and a tread depth difference of less than 2/322 / 322/32 of an inch, you can likely replace just two. 
• You can shave the new tire: A shop can shave a new tire to match the exact tread depth of the others, making them virtually identical in circumference. 
• Install the new pair on the rear axle: This is recommended to ensure the most critical tires (front for steering) have matching tread and wear. 

When you should replace all four tires

• Remaining tires are significantly worn: If the tread depth difference between the new and old tires is more than 2/322 / 322/32 of an inch, you risk damaging the AWD system and should replace all four. 
• You don't want to shave the new tire: If a shaving service is not available or preferred, and your current tires have any measurable wear, replacing all four is the only way to guarantee the correct circumference. 

How to check your tires

1. Measure tread depth: Use a tread depth gauge to measure the depth of all four tires. 
2. Calculate the difference: Subtract the smallest measurement from the largest to find the difference. 
3. Compare to Subaru's tolerance: If the difference is greater than 2/322 / 322/32 of an inch, you should plan to replace all four tires. 

Do subarus have alignment issues?

A misaligned Subaru can lead to a host of handling problems. The car may pull to one side, requiring constant steering corrections to keep it traveling straight. This can be particularly dangerous in adverse weather conditions, as it reduces the driver's ability to control the vehicle effectively.