2017 Nissan Frontier Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick Reference

These specifications are for a stock 2017 Nissan Frontier and may vary based on sub-model (S, SV, Desert Runner, PRO-4X, SL) and factory options. Ranges are provided in degrees.

Adjustability

Understanding which alignment angles can be adjusted from the factory is crucial for any technician or owner of a 2017 Nissan Frontier.

• Front Axle: On a stock Frontier, only caster and toe are adjustable. Caster is adjusted via eccentric bolts on the inboard side of the lower control arms. Toe is adjusted by rotating the inner tie rod ends. Front camber and SAI are not factory adjustable. If camber is out of specification, it typically indicates bent or worn components (e.g., spindle, ball joints, control arm).

• Rear Axle: The 2017 Nissan Frontier utilizes a solid rear axle. On this type of suspension, no alignment angles (camber, toe) are adjustable. The values are fixed. If rear camber or toe are out of specification, it points to significant issues such as a bent axle housing, worn leaf spring bushings, or even frame damage. The thrust angle should be very close to zero; a significant thrust angle on a solid axle vehicle indicates the axle is no longer perpendicular to the vehicle's centerline, which can be caused by worn leaf spring bushings or a shifted axle after an impact.

Recommended Adjustment Hardware

For vehicles that have been lifted, leveled, or have out-of-spec front camber, aftermarket parts are required to regain proper specifications.

• SPC Light Racing Upper Control Arms (UCA): These are a popular solution for lifted Frontiers. They provide adjustable ball joints that allow for significant changes in both camber and caster, helping to correct alignment angles and improve driving dynamics after the suspension geometry has been altered.
• Eccentric Cam Bolt Kits: For vehicles needing a smaller degree of camber correction, aftermarket eccentric cam bolt kits can be installed, often in a position on the control arms not factory-equipped with one. These replace the stock, non-adjusting bolts and provide a cam lobe to push or pull the control arm, thereby adjusting camber.

Symptoms of Bad Alignment

A misaligned vehicle will exhibit several tell-tale signs, with tire wear being the most definitive.

• Vehicle Pulling or Drifting: The vehicle pulls to the left or right when you let go of the steering wheel on a flat, straight road. This is often caused by unequal caster or camber from side to side.
• Crooked Steering Wheel: The steering wheel is not centered when the vehicle is traveling straight. This is a clear sign of a toe-angle issue.
• Excessive Tire Wear (Inside or Outside Edge): This is a classic symptom of incorrect camber. Too much positive camber wears the outside edge of the tire, while too much negative camber wears the inside edge.
• Feathered or Scalloped Tire Wear: When you run your hand across the tread, it feels like sawtooths or sharp edges in one direction. This "feathering" is a direct result of incorrect toe angle, which scuffs the tires sideways as they roll forward.

When to Align

An alignment check should be considered routine maintenance, not just a repair. We recommend an alignment check:

• After installing new tires: To ensure you get the longest life out of your investment.
• After suspension or steering component replacement: Any time a part like a control arm, ball joint, tie rod, or strut is replaced, the alignment will be affected.
• After an impact: Hitting a large pothole, a curb, or being involved in a minor collision can easily knock your alignment out of specification.
• Annually: As suspension components wear, alignment angles can drift. An annual check ensures your vehicle is tracking straight and not prematurely wearing out tires.

Typical Alignment Cost

The cost for a wheel alignment on a 2017 Nissan Frontier can vary by location and shop. Because only the front axle is adjustable, some shops may charge for a "front-end alignment." However, a full four-wheel alignment check is always recommended to verify the rear axle and thrust angle are within specification. Expect to pay between $100 to $200 for a comprehensive four-wheel alignment from a quality shop using modern laser alignment equipment.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.