2016 Chevrolet Malibu Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

On the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, front toe is the primary factory-adjustable angle. This adjustment is made via the tie rod ends. Front camber and caster are not directly adjustable from the factory. If these angles are out of specification, it typically indicates worn or damaged suspension components, or a bent chassis. For rear alignment, only rear toe is factory-adjustable. Rear camber is fixed.

To correct out-of-spec front camber or caster, aftermarket solutions like camber bolts or adjustable control arms may be necessary. These modifications allow for incremental changes to the suspension geometry. Similarly, for rear camber correction, a non-adjustable setting often points to suspension issues or may be addressed with aftermarket camber kits if a slight adjustment is desired and within safe parameters for the vehicle.

Recommended adjustment hardware

Given the non-adjustable nature of front camber and caster on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, if these angles are out of spec due to reasons other than worn components, SPC Performance or Ingalls Engineering offer specialized camber kits, including eccentric bolts, that can provide a limited range of adjustment. Always consult with a qualified alignment technician before installing such hardware to ensure it's the appropriate solution for your specific situation. For the rear, if camber is out due to something other than damaged components, aftermarket camber arms might be available to bring it within specification, but this is less common for the Malibu.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Misaligned wheels can manifest in several ways, impacting your vehicle's performance and safety. Here are common symptoms and associated tire wear patterns:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most common indicator.
  • Feathering: If the tire tread blocks are worn smooth on one side and sharp on the other, it often points to excessive toe-in or toe-out. This feels like running your hand across the tire tread and it's smooth in one direction but catches in the other.
  • Camber Wear (Inner or Outer Edge Wear): If only the inner or outer edge of the tire is significantly worn, it suggests a camber issue (too much negative or positive camber). Negative camber wears the inner edge, positive camber wears the outer edge.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: This irregular, scooped-out wear pattern can be indicative of worn shocks or other suspension components, but can also be exacerbated by alignment issues.
• Vehicle Pulling: Your car may drift or pull to one side of the road even when you're trying to steer straight. This is a classic sign of incorrect caster or camber.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: The steering wheel might feel loose, or you may constantly have to make small corrections to keep the car going straight. This can be caused by excessive toe-out or worn steering components.
• Off-Center Steering Wheel: Even when driving straight, your steering wheel might not be centered. This usually indicates an incorrect front toe adjustment.
• Squealing Tires: While often related to tire pressure or driving habits, squealing tires during turns can also signal an alignment problem.

When to align

Regular wheel alignments are crucial for maintaining your vehicle's handling, tire life, and overall safety. Here are key situations when an alignment is highly recommended:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any time components like tie rod ends, control arms, ball joints, struts, or shock absorbers are replaced, an alignment is essential as these directly affect wheel angles.
• After Installing New Tires: To protect your investment and ensure even wear from the start, always get an alignment after purchasing new tires.
• Hitting a Curb or Pothole: Significant impacts can easily knock your suspension out of alignment. If you've had a severe jolt, it's wise to get it checked.
• Following an Accident: Even a minor fender bender can affect alignment. Always have it inspected after any collision.
• When Symptoms Are Present: If you notice any of the