2023 Ford Explorer Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick Reference

Adjustability

On the 2023 Ford Explorer, front toe is adjustable from the factory. This is achieved by adjusting 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 components, damage, or requires aftermarket solutions to correct. Rear toe is adjustable via eccentric bolts on the lower control arms, allowing for precise adjustment. Rear camber is not adjustable from the factory. If rear camber is out of spec, it may indicate worn components or damage, similar to the front.

Recommended Adjustment Hardware

Since front camber and caster are not factory-adjustable, correcting these angles often requires aftermarket solutions. For slight adjustments, eccentric camber bolts can be installed in place of the upper or lower strut bolts, allowing for a small degree of camber and sometimes caster correction. For more significant adjustments or if a wider range of correction is needed, aftermarket control arms or camber plates may be necessary. For the rear, if camber is out of specification and worn components have been ruled out, aftermarket adjustable lower control arms are typically the solution.

Symptoms of Bad Alignment

Several symptoms can indicate your 2023 Ford Explorer is out of alignment, with tire wear being one of the most common and expensive.

• Feathering: This occurs when the tread blocks on one side of the tire are worn smooth, and the other side is sharp. This is a common sign of incorrect toe settings, either too much toe-in or toe-out.
• Inner or Outer Shoulder Wear: If only the inside or outside edge of your tire is wearing down prematurely, this often points to an issue with camber. Negative camber will cause inner shoulder wear, while positive camber will cause outer shoulder wear.
• Cupping or Scalloping: Uneven dips or hollows around the circumference of the tire can indicate worn suspension components, such as shocks or struts, but can also be exacerbated by alignment issues.
• Steering Wheel Off-Center: If your steering wheel is not straight when driving in a straight line, it's a clear indicator of a toe issue, even if the vehicle isn't actively pulling.
• Vehicle Pulling: The vehicle consistently drifts or pulls to one side, requiring you to constantly correct the steering. This can be caused by unequal caster settings side-to-side, or significant camber differences.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: If the vehicle feels unstable or tends to wander on the road, it could be a sign of insufficient caster or excessive toe-out.

When to Align

It's recommended to have a wheel alignment performed on your 2023 Ford Explorer in several situations:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any time you replace parts like tie rods, control arms, ball joints, struts, or shocks, an alignment is crucial.
• After Purchasing New Tires: To ensure your new tires wear evenly and last their full lifespan, an alignment is highly recommended.
• After an Accident or Hitting a Large Pothole/Curb: Even a minor impact can throw your alignment out of specifications.
• Every 12,000 to 15,000 Miles or Annually: Regular alignment checks, even without obvious symptoms, can help catch minor issues before they become major problems.
• If You Notice Any of the Above Symptoms: Don't wait; address alignment issues promptly to prevent further tire wear and potential safety concerns.

Typical Alignment Cost

The typical cost for a wheel alignment on a 2023 Ford Explorer can vary widely based on your location, the type of shop, and whether any adjustments or additional parts are needed. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $80 to $150 for a standard four-wheel alignment. If specialized adjustments (e.g., installing aftermarket camber kits) or additional suspension repairs are required, the cost will be higher.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.