2015 Ford Transit - Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

The Ford Transit, introduced in 2015 to the North American market, quickly became a staple for businesses and individuals seeking a versatile and robust cargo or passenger van. Proper wheel alignment is crucial for the optimal performance, handling, and tire longevity of your 2015 Ford Transit, given its potential for heavy loads and varied driving conditions. Understanding the factory specifications and adjustability will help you maintain your vehicle in top shape.

Adjustability

On the 2015 Ford Transit, 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 perhaps a bent strut or control arm. For rear alignment, only toe is adjustable from the factory, typically through eccentric bolts on the lower control arms.

If front camber or caster are out of specification and no damaged components are found, aftermarket solutions are available. These may include eccentric cam bolts for the lower strut mounts or slotted control arm bushings to provide the necessary adjustment. Similarly, if rear camber is out of specification, aftermarket eccentric bushings or adjustable control arms may be required to bring it back into range.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For correcting non-adjustable front camber and caster on the 2015 Ford Transit, specialized aftermarket hardware is often necessary. Companies like SPC Performance offer eccentric bolts that can be installed in the lower strut mounts to allow for camber and some caster adjustment. For rear camber issues, eccentric bushings or adjustable lower control arms from respected aftermarket manufacturers can provide the needed adjustability. Always ensure that any aftermarket parts you install are designed for the Ford Transit and are of high quality to maintain vehicle safety and performance.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Misaligned wheels on your 2015 Ford Transit can manifest in several noticeable ways, impacting both safety and your wallet. One of the most common indicators is uneven tire wear. If the inner or outer edges of your front or rear tires are significantly more worn than the rest of the tread, it often points to incorrect camber or toe settings. For instance:

• Feathering: A "feathered" wear pattern, where the tread blocks are worn smooth on one side and sharp on the other, is a strong indicator of excessive toe-in or toe-out.
• Inner or Outer Shoulder Wear: If only the inner or outer edge of the tire is worn down, it typically suggests a camber issue. Negative camber wears the inner edge, while positive camber wears the outer edge.
• Cupping or Scalloping: While often associated with worn shocks or struts, an alignment problem can exacerbate or contribute to cupping, where there are dips and valleys in the tread.

Beyond tire wear, you might experience steering wheel off-center when driving straight, a tendency for the vehicle to pull to one side, or an overall loose or wandering feeling in the steering. Fuel economy can also decrease as the tires scrub against the road rather than roll freely.

When to align

Regular wheel alignments are a wise investment for your 2015 Ford Transit. It's generally recommended to have an alignment check at least once a year or every 10,000-15,000 miles. However, certain events necessitate an immediate alignment check:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any work involving the replacement of control arms, tie rods, ball joints, struts, or other steering and suspension components will alter the alignment angles.
• After Installing New Tires: To ensure you get the maximum lifespan and performance from your new tires, an alignment is crucial.
• After Hitting a Pothole or Curb: Significant impacts can easily knock your alignment out of specification.
• If You Notice Any Alignment Symptoms: Don't wait if you experience uneven tire wear, steering pull, or an off-center steering wheel.

Typical alignment cost

The cost of a wheel alignment for your 2015 Ford Transit can vary depending on your location, the repair shop, and whether any adjustments require aftermarket parts. Generally, a standard two-wheel (front axle) alignment might range from $70 to $120. A four-wheel alignment, which is recommended for the Transit, typically costs between $100 and $180. If specialized cam bolts or other aftermarket correction kits are needed to bring non-adjustable angles into spec, the total cost will be higher due to parts and additional labor.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.