2020 Ford F-150 Wheel Alignment Specifications

Maintaining proper wheel alignment on your 2020 Ford F-150 is crucial for optimal handling, tire longevity, and overall driving safety. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the alignment specifications, adjustability, common issues, and maintenance tips for your truck.

Quick reference

Adjustability

On the 2020 Ford F-150, the front alignment offers adjustability for camber and caster via eccentric bushings or cam bolts on the lower control arm, and toe through the tie rod ends. This allows technicians to fine-tune these critical angles to factory specifications. However, SAI (Steering Axis Inclination) is generally non-adjustable, as it is determined by the design of the suspension components. If SAI is out of specification, it often indicates bent or worn suspension parts that require replacement.

For the rear axle, camber and individual toe are typically non-adjustable from the factory. Any significant deviation in these angles usually points to bent axle housings, worn wheel bearings, or damaged suspension components. However, total toe and thrust angle can sometimes be indirectly addressed by shimming the leaf springs or by ensuring proper U-bolt torque. Aftermarket solutions, such as cam bolt kits or adjustable shackles, are available for those seeking to adjust rear camber or toe, particularly for lifted or lowered applications.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For the front suspension, if your F-150 requires more camber or caster adjustment than the factory eccentrics allow, SPC (Specialty Products Company) or Moog cam bolt kits are popular and effective solutions. These kits typically replace the factory lower control arm bolts with adjustable cam bolts, providing a wider range of adjustment. When addressing rear alignment issues that are not due to worn or damaged components, aftermarket adjustable shims or eccentric bushings might be considered, though professional installation and assessment are paramount to ensure proper function and safety.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Several symptoms can indicate a misaligned 2020 Ford F-150. One of the most common is uneven tire wear. For instance:

• Feathering: A sawtooth-like wear pattern across the tread, where one side of each tread block is rounded and the other is sharp, often indicates excessive toe-in or toe-out.
• Camber wear: Wear on only one side of the tire (either the inner or outer edge) suggests incorrect camber. Positive camber causes outer edge wear, while negative camber causes inner edge wear.
• Cupping or scalloping: Irregular wear patterns, often appearing as dips or scoops around the tire's circumference, can be a sign of worn shocks, unbalanced tires, or occasionally, severe alignment issues.

Other symptoms include the vehicle pulling to one side, requiring constant steering correction to drive straight. A crooked steering wheel when driving in a straight line is another strong indicator. Finally, a general feeling of loose or unresponsive steering can also point to alignment problems.

When to align

It's recommended to get a wheel alignment for your 2020 Ford F-150 in several situations:

• After suspension or steering component replacement: Any time major components like tie rod ends, control arms, ball joints, or shocks are replaced, an alignment is mandatory.
• After purchasing new tires: To ensure even wear and maximize the lifespan of your new tires.
• After hitting a significant pothole, curb, or other road hazard: Even a seemingly minor impact can throw your alignment out of spec.
• Every 12 months or 12,000 to 15,000 miles: Regular alignment checks help catch small deviations before they cause significant problems.
• If you notice any of the symptoms of bad alignment mentioned above.

Typical alignment cost

The typical cost for a wheel alignment on a 2020 Ford F-150 generally ranges from $90 to $150 for a standard two-wheel or four-wheel alignment. However, prices can vary based on your geographic location, the complexity of the adjustment required (e.g., if seized components need freeing), and the shop's labor rates. Some shops offer lifetime alignment packages, which can be a cost-effective option over the long term, especially if you frequently encounter conditions that necessitate alignment checks.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.