What are the two main types of wheel alignment adjustments?

Study for the Period 2 Automotive Service Technician Test. Practice with multiple choice questions and flashcards, each with hints and detailed explanations. Prepare effectively and excel in your exam!

The two main types of wheel alignment adjustments are camber and toe.

Camber refers to the angle of the wheels in relation to the vertical axis of the vehicle when viewed from the front. This adjustment affects tire wear and handling. If the tops of the wheels lean inward, it's referred to as negative camber, whereas outward lean is positive camber. Proper camber alignment helps ensure that the tires make optimal contact with the road surface, providing stability and enhancing control, especially during cornering.

Toe, on the other hand, refers to the direction the wheels point in relation to the centerline of the vehicle when viewed from above. If the front of the wheels points inward, that is called toe-in, and if they point outward, it's known as toe-out. Correct toe alignment is essential for even tire wear and to ensure the vehicle tracks straight while driving, minimizing drag and improving fuel efficiency.

These two adjustments work in tandem to maintain the vehicle's handling characteristics, tire wear, and overall steering responsiveness, making them the primary focus in most wheel alignment services.

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