ASE G1 Auto Maintenance and Light RepairSuspension and SteeringEasy
A technician is performing a pre-alignment inspection. They notice that the vehicle's rear axle is bent, causing the rear wheels to point inward at the top. What alignment angle is primarily affected?
- AToe
- BCamber
- CThrust angle
- DCaster
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Camber
Camber refers to the inward or outward tilt of the wheel at the top. A bent rear axle causing the wheels to point inward at the top directly affects the rear camber.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Toe refers to the inward or outward pointing of the front edge of the wheels, not the top tilt.
- C. Thrust angle is the direction the rear wheels are pointing relative to the vehicle's centerline, but camber is the direct angle affected by the tilt.
- D. Caster is the forward or rearward tilt of the steering axis, primarily affecting steering stability and returnability.
Camber
The angle of the wheel relative to the vertical axis when viewed from the front or rear of the vehicle.
- Positive camber: top of the wheel tilts outward
- Negative camber: top of the wheel tilts inward
- Affects tire wear and handling characteristics
Memory trick: Can't Always See The Right Angle.