2022 Ford Explorer Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

On the 2022 Ford Explorer, front total toe is the primary factory adjustment available to technicians. This is achieved by adjusting the tie rod ends. Minor adjustments are made to each side to achieve the target total toe and ensure the steering wheel is centered.

Front camber and front caster are generally not factory-adjustable on the 2022 Ford Explorer. If these angles are found to be outside of the acceptable range, it often indicates a bent suspension component from an impact or worn parts. In some cases, aftermarket camber bolts or eccentric bushings may be installed to provide limited adjustment for camber and caster. However, these should only be considered after a thorough inspection for damaged components.

For the rear axle, rear total toe is factory-adjustable. Similar to the front, this is done by adjusting specialized links or eccentric bolts within the rear suspension. Rear camber is generally not directly adjustable from the factory. If it's out of specification, it typically points to worn components or damage. Aftermarket solutions may exist to allow for some rear camber adjustment.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For the vast majority of 2022 Ford Explorers, factory adjustments for front and rear toe are sufficient for maintaining proper alignment. If front camber or caster are consistently out of specification due to minor tolerances or uneven settling of the suspension, aftermarket solutions such as SPC Performance adjustable camber bolts or eccentric bushings might be recommended by an experienced alignment technician. These components replace original equipment and allow for a small range of adjustment to bring non-adjustable angles back into specification. Always consult with a qualified technician to determine if such hardware is necessary.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Misaligned wheels can lead to a variety of issues, most notably premature and uneven tire wear, compromised handling, and reduced fuel efficiency. Here are some common symptoms:

• Feathering: This occurs when the tread ribs are worn lower on one side and higher on the other, giving a feathery or saw-tooth appearance when running your hand across the tread. This is often a sign of incorrect toe settings.
• Inner or Outer Shoulder Wear: If only the inside or outside edge of the tire is wearing significantly faster than the rest of the tread, it's a strong indicator of incorrect camber settings.
• Cupping or Scalloping: This appears as repeated dips or scoops in the tread pattern, often a sign of worn shock absorbers or other suspension components, but can be exacerbated by alignment issues.
• Vehicle Pulling: If your Explorer consistently pulls to one side when driving on a straight, level road, it's a classic symptom of incorrect caster or significant camber/toe discrepancies between the left and right sides.
• Steering Wheel Not Centered: If your steering wheel is off-center when driving straight, but the vehicle doesn't pull, it often indicates the toe was adjusted without properly centering the steering wheel.
• Vibration: While not always alignment-related, vibrations can sometimes be a symptom of extreme alignment issues or issues with tire balance.

When to align

Regular wheel alignments are crucial for the longevity of your tires and the safety of your vehicle. You should consider getting a wheel alignment for your 2022 Ford Explorer in the following situations:

• After any suspension or steering component replacement: This includes tie rod ends, control arms, ball joints, shocks, struts, or any component that affects wheel angles.
• After installing new tires: Even if your old tires wore evenly, new tires are a significant investment, and an alignment ensures they start their life with the best possible conditions.
• After an accident or hitting a significant pothole/curb: Any impact strong enough to jar the vehicle can knock your alignment out of specification.
• If you notice any of the "Symptoms of bad alignment" listed above.
• At least once a year, or every 10,000-15,000 miles: This is a good preventative measure, even if you don't notice any immediate issues.

Typical alignment cost

The cost of a wheel alignment for a 2022 Ford Explorer can vary depending on your location, the shop, and whether any adjustments beyond basic toe are required. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $180 for a standard alignment. If specialized aftermarket parts are needed or if there's significant diagnosis of damaged components, the cost could be higher. Some shops offer lifetime alignment packages, which can be a cost-effective option over the long term.

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