How do I adjust the camber angle?
Camber adjustment is achieved by shifting the wheel’s tilt relative to the suspension upright using adjustable hardware such as cam bolts, adjustable arms, or shims. In most road cars, front camber is adjusted via the strut mount or upper control arm, while rear camber adjustment depends on the chassis design.
Understanding camber and its role
Camber is the angle of the wheel relative to the vertical plane viewed from the front of the vehicle. Negative camber means the top of the wheel leans inward, while positive camber means it leans outward. Camber affects tire contact with the road, cornering grip, steering response, and tire wear. Subtle camber adjustments can improve grip in corners, but excessive camber can wear tires unevenly and affect straight-line stability. For most daily drivers, a small amount of negative camber in the front is common, while race setups may push camber further negative for cornering performance.
Where camber can be adjusted on typical suspensions
The following list outlines common methods used to adjust camber, depending on suspension design.
- Adjustable camber bolts at the strut-to-knuckle or knuckle-to-spindle interface (often used on MacPherson strut setups).
- Adjustable upper control arms (common on double wishbone or some independent suspension layouts).
- Adjustable lower control arms or trailing arms (used in some multi-link or performance setups).
- Strut top mount eccentric bolts or cam washers in certain MacPherson systems.
- Rear suspension adjustments such as eccentric bushings or adjustable trailing arms (model-dependent).
- Aftermarket camber kits for more aggressive or race-oriented alignment on various platforms.
The exact option depends on your vehicle’s make, model, and suspension layout. Many modern sedans have limited factory adjustability and rely on aftermarket components or professional alignment for larger changes.
How to adjust camber: step-by-step guide
Below is a general guide. Always consult your vehicle’s service manual for model-specific instructions and torque specifications. If you’re not comfortable performing suspension work, seek a professional alignment shop.
- Identify the adjustable camber method for your vehicle (cam bolts, adjustable arms, or rear eccentric bushings) by inspecting the suspension components or the service manual.
- Prepare the vehicle: park on a flat, level surface, engage the parking brake, chock the wheels, and lift the vehicle if needed to access the suspension. Remove the wheel to access the adjustment points.
- Loosen the appropriate fasteners just enough to allow movement. Do not remove components completely unless the manual specifies.
- Make small adjustments to camber using the chosen method: rotate cam bolts to push the top of the upright inward or outward, or reposition adjustable arms/bushings according to the desired camber change. For negative camber, move the top inward; for positive camber, move it outward.
- Re-tighten fasteners to the manufacturer’s torque specifications after achieving the desired camber, and reinstall the wheel.
- Lower the vehicle and perform a formal alignment measurement using an alignment machine or a trusted camber gauge. Note the camber value and compare it to the vehicle’s desired spec.
- Repeat adjustments if necessary to approach the target camber within recommended tolerances. While adjusting, also check toe and caster, since changing camber can affect these angles.
- Take the vehicle for a short test drive to evaluate handling and tire wear patterns. Inspect tires for unusual wear and adjust again if needed.
In practice, achieving precise camber often requires iterative adjustments and verification with a proper alignment readout. If you’ve replaced suspension components or are chasing a specific performance goal, a professional alignment is highly recommended.
Safety and professional alignment
Suspension work carries risk if components aren’t properly supported or torqued. Always use jack stands, follow weight-bearing precautions, and refer to torque specs. Improper camber settings can cause unstable handling or accelerated tire wear. For best results and safety, especially after major suspension changes, have the vehicle aligned by a qualified technician.
When to seek professional help
Consider a professional alignment if you notice uneven tire wear, pulling, or instability at speed, or if you’re planning a performance setup that requires precise camber values beyond typical factory ranges. A shop can measure camber, toe, and caster, recommend appropriate changes, and verify them with the latest alignment equipment.
Summary
Camber adjustment involves altering the wheel’s tilt using hardware such as cam bolts, adjustable arms, or shims. The exact method depends on your suspension layout, with front camber commonly adjusted via strut mounts or upper arms and rear camber varying by model. Always recheck alignment after changes, consider the impact on toe and caster, and lean on professional alignment services for precision or complex setups. Proper camber tuning can improve grip and cornering performance while minimizing uneven tire wear.
