What’s the difference between front-end and rear-end alignment
A front-end alignment, also called a two-wheel or standard, is a common auto service that refers to the steering alignment of the two front wheels only.
This process is performed to ensure that proper angles are maintained in the suspension system. Maintaining proper alignment helps ensure the safety, performance, and longevity of your vehicle.
The technician will check the front wheels to determine if it needs further adjustments generally related to caster, camber, and toe. He will be setting the front wheels so that they are parallel to the center of your car. This helps you maintain the handling and control of your vehicle.
Furthermore, with a front-end alignment, the technician might also determine that a “thrust angle adjustment” is required due to the need to re-angle the camber and toe settings.
This procedure allows the technician to ensure that each wheel is optimally aligned with respect to each other.
Front-end alignment is a complex and comprehensive process that needs to be performed by someone with the right skill and experience.
However, keep in mind that it does not include adjustment of camber and caster angles. As a result, your vehicle’s steering wheel will probably not be perfectly centered because they don’t account for rear-end alignment. If this is your issue, you might need to get a rear-end alignment.
While this sort of wheel alignment is used on older vehicles, it may be dangerous to use on modern vehicles as it is less accurate and risks tire damage.
On the other hand, in a rear-end alignment or commonly known as four-wheel alignment, the technician will have to adjust all four wheels.
A four-wheel alignment is an essential maintenance procedure that ensures that the wheels of your vehicle are properly positioned to maximize tire life, provide exceptional handling, and ensure proper steering.
This process is particularly beneficial on vehicles with adjustable rear suspension as it brings all four wheels back in spec and centered for best performance.
Similar to a front-end alignment, a rear-end alignment involves adjusting the angle of your vehicle’s tires in relation to your vehicle’s frame.
However, in contrast, while the rear-end alignment also includes adjustments on the front wheels that involve the caster and front toe, it also consists of toe and camber adjustments on the rear wheels.
All wheels are adjusted to the center of the vehicle by measuring the rear axle positioning first followed by the measuring of the front angles. This ensures that your vehicle is centered accurately.
The rear-end alignment is a more precise, accurate, and true to vehicle specifications process than the front-end alignment.
Aligning your vehicle regularly can prolong tire life, reduce vibration, and maintain safer driving and handling. Depending on your vehicle’s make and model as well as your needs, you might need a front-end or a rear-end alignment.
Keep in mind that your vehicle will most likely develop misaligned wheels gradually, which is why you should check your alignment at least annually, or more often if you frequently drive on bumpy roads.
