2020 Jeep Cherokee Wheel Alignment Specifications

This guide provides comprehensive wheel alignment specifications for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee, detailing factory settings, adjustability, common issues, and maintenance tips.

Quick reference

Adjustability

The 2020 Jeep Cherokee offers some factory adjustability for alignment, but not all angles can be modified without aftermarket components.

Front Axle:

• Camber: This is not factory adjustable on the 2020 Jeep Cherokee. To correct front camber issues, aftermarket solutions such as camber bolts (eccentric bolts) or adjustable control arms are typically required.
• Caster: Similar to camber, front caster is not factory adjustable. Aftermarket caster/camber kits, often employing eccentric bushings or adjustable control arms, are necessary for adjustment.
• Toe: Front individual toe and total toe are factory adjustable on the 2020 Jeep Cherokee. Adjustments are made via the tie rod ends.

Rear Axle:

• Camber: Rear camber is factory adjustable on the 2020 Jeep Cherokee. Adjustments are typically made using eccentric bolts at the lower control arm mounting points.
• Toe: Rear individual toe and total toe are factory adjustable. Adjustments are usually made via eccentric cams on the rear trailing arms or control arms.
• Thrust Angle: Thrust angle is indirectly adjusted when the rear toe is adjusted correctly. It's a measurement indicating if the rear wheels are tracking straight with the front wheels.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For angles that are not factory-adjustable on your 2020 Jeep Cherokee, several aftermarket solutions are available. For front camber and caster adjustments, common recommendations include SPC (Specialty Products Company) camber/caster kits or adjustable control arms that allow for more precise tuning. These kits typically replace stock bolts with eccentric versions or provide alternative mounting solutions to achieve the desired alignment specifications.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Recognizing the signs of misaligned wheels can save you from premature tire wear and compromised handling. Here are common symptoms:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most common indicator. Different alignment issues cause distinct wear patterns:
  • Feathering: Sawtooth-like wear across the tread, often indicating excessive toe-in or toe-out.
  • Inner or Outer Shoulder Wear: One side of the tire wearing down faster than the other, pointing towards excessive negative or positive camber.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: Pothole-like dips around the tire's circumference, which can be caused by worn suspension components but sometimes exacerbated by alignment issues.
• Steering Wheel Off-Center: If your steering wheel isn't straight when driving in a straight line, your alignment is likely off.
• Vehicle Pulling: The car consistently drifts or pulls to one side, requiring constant steering correction.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: The steering feels vague, and the vehicle seems to wander on the road.
• Squealing Tires: Tires that squeal, especially during turns, can indicate a misalignment.

When to align

Regular alignment checks are crucial for maintaining your vehicle's performance and safety. Here are key situations when an alignment is recommended:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any work involving steering rods, ball joints, control arms, struts, or tie rods necessitates an alignment.
• After Installing New Tires: To ensure even wear and maximize the lifespan of your new tires.
• After Hitting a Significant Pothole or Curb: Impacts can easily knock your alignment out of spec.
• Every 12-15,000 Miles or Annually: As part of routine maintenance, even if you don't notice any issues.
• If You Notice Any Alignment Symptoms: Don't wait if you experience uneven tire wear, pulling, or an off-center steering wheel.

Typical alignment cost

The cost of a wheel alignment for a 2020 Jeep Cherokee can vary depending on your location, the type of shop (dealership vs. independent), and whether any additional adjustments or parts are needed. Generally, a standard four-wheel alignment can range from $100 to $200. If specialized aftermarket camber/caster kits are installed, or if seized components require extra labor, the cost could be higher.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.