ASE A4 Suspension and SteeringWheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and RepairMedium
When performing a four-wheel alignment on a vehicle, a technician discovers that the rear camber is out of specification on one side, but the vehicle's rear suspension is non-adjustable. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate action?
- AInspect the rear suspension components for damage or wear.
- BInform the customer that the rear camber cannot be adjusted and is within acceptable limits.
- CAdjust the rear toe to minimize the effect of the incorrect camber.
- DAdjust the front camber to compensate for the rear camber.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Inspect the rear suspension components for damage or wear.
If a non-adjustable angle is found to be out of specification, it indicates a mechanical problem (e.g., bent component, worn bushing, loose mounting). The technician must inspect the relevant components to identify the cause and recommend repair or replacement.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. An out-of-specification angle on a non-adjustable system is NOT acceptable and indicates a fault that needs diagnosis and repair, not dismissal.
- C. Adjusting rear toe will not correct a camber issue; they are independent angles. It might mask the problem or introduce other issues.
- D. Adjusting the front camber to compensate for a rear issue is incorrect and will likely create new handling problems.
Non-Adjustable Angle Out-of-Spec
If an alignment angle that is specified as non-adjustable is found to be outside manufacturer specifications, it indicates a physical defect in a suspension component, requiring inspection, repair, or replacement.
- Non-adjustable means no built-in adjustment.
- Out-of-spec implies physical damage or wear.
- Requires inspection of related components.
- Common culprits: bent control arm, worn bushing, damaged subframe.
Memory trick: No knob to turn? Then it's a broken internal concern!