2020 GMC Acadia Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

On the 2020 GMC Acadia, front toe is the primary adjustable angle from the factory. This is done by adjusting the tie rod ends. Front camber and caster are not directly adjustable from the factory. If these angles are found to be outside of the acceptable range, it often indicates worn or damaged suspension components, or a need for aftermarket solutions. Rear toe is adjustable via eccentric cams on the lower control arm, and rear camber is also adjustable with eccentric cams. Thrust angle is a calculated angle based on the rear toe settings. A non-zero thrust angle indicates that the rear wheels are not tracking straight with the front wheels, which can cause the vehicle to "dog track" and lead to premature tire wear.

Aftermarket Adjustment Options

For situations where front camber or caster are out of specification and replacement of worn parts doesn't resolve the issue, aftermarket solutions are available. These may include camber/caster eccentric bolts or adjustable control arms. These components allow for fine-tuning of angles beyond the factory non-adjustable settings. It's important to consult with a qualified alignment technician to determine the best course of action if non-adjustable angles are out of spec.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For factory adjustments, no special hardware is typically needed beyond what's required for standard tie-rod end and eccentric bolt adjustments. If aftermarket adjustment is required for front camber or caster, SPC Performance and Moog are reputable brands that offer camber/caster kits for various applications, though specific part numbers vary. Always verify compatibility for your exact 2020 GMC Acadia model.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Misaligned wheels can manifest in several ways, impacting drivability, safety, and tire longevity. Here are common symptoms and related tire-wear patterns:

• Uneven tire wear: This is the most common and telling sign. Different alignment angles cause different wear patterns:
  • Feathering: Occurs when the tread blocks are worn smooth on one side and sharp on the other, typically pointing to excessive toe-in or toe-out.
  • Inner or outer shoulder wear: Excessive negative or positive camber will cause the inside or outside edge of the tire to wear down more rapidly than the rest of the tread.
  • Cupping or scalloping: Characterized by alternating high and low spots around the circumference of the tire, often indicative of worn or loose suspension components, but can also be exacerbated by alignment issues.
• Vehicle pulling or drifting: The vehicle consistently pulls to one side when driving on a flat, straight road. This can be caused by unequal caster settings side-to-side or excessive camber on one side.
• Steering wheel off-center: Even when driving straight, the steering wheel may not be centered. This is a common symptom of incorrect total toe.
• Loose or wandering steering: The vehicle feels difficult to keep in a straight line, requiring constant steering corrections. This can be caused by insufficient caster or excessive toe-out.
• Squealing tires: Tires may squeal, especially during turns, even at low speeds, due to excessive slip angles caused by poor toe settings.

When to align

A wheel alignment is not a "set it and forget it" service. Several situations necessitate an alignment check and adjustment:

• After suspension or steering component replacement: Any time parts like tie-rod ends, control arms, ball joints, struts, or shock absorbers are replaced, an alignment is crucial.
• After installing new tires: Even if no suspension work was done, new tires should always be followed by an alignment check to ensure they wear evenly from the start.
• After an impact: Hitting a pothole, curb, or having a minor accident can knock your alignment out of spec.
• When symptoms arise: If you notice any of the "symptoms of bad alignment" listed above, a check is warranted.
• Regular maintenance: Many manufacturers and automotive experts recommend an alignment check every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or at least once a year as preventative maintenance.

Typical alignment cost

The typical cost for a wheel alignment on a 2020 GMC Acadia can range from $80 to $150, but this can vary significantly based on location, the type of shop (independent vs. dealership), and whether any additional parts or labor are required to free seized adjusters or replace worn components. Some shops offer a "lifetime alignment" package for a higher upfront cost, which can be economical if you plan to own the vehicle for an extended period.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.