2016 Ram 1500 Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

The 2016 Ram 1500, like many modern trucks, offers some factory adjustability for alignment, but not every angle can be corrected without aftermarket components.

Front Alignment:

• Camber: From the factory, the 2016 Ram 1500 does not have direct camber adjustment. If camber is outside the specified range, it often indicates worn components (ball joints, control arm bushings) or a bent steering/suspension part. Aftermarket cam bolts or adjustable control arms are commonly used to correct camber issues on these trucks.
• Caster: Similar to camber, the 2016 Ram 1500 does not have direct caster adjustment from the factory. Aftermarket cam bolts or adjustable control arms are the typical solution for correcting caster beyond what component replacement might achieve.
• Total Toe: The front total toe on the 2016 Ram 1500 is fully adjustable via the tie rod ends. This is the most common and straightforward front alignment adjustment.

Rear Alignment:

• Camber: The rear camber on the 2016 Ram 1500 is generally not adjustable from the factory. Excessively out-of-spec rear camber usually points to worn axle components, bent axle housing, or overloaded springs. Aftermarket solutions, such as eccentric bushings or shims, may be available.
• Total Toe: The rear total toe on the 2016 Ram 1500 is also typically not adjustable from the factory. Similar to rear camber, consistently out-of-spec toe could indicate issues with the axle or suspension components.
• Thrust Angle: Thrust angle is determined by the rear axle alignment relative to the vehicle's centerline. While not directly adjustable, correcting individual rear toe and ensuring the rear axle is centered will resolve thrust angle issues.

Recommended adjustment hardware

Given the limited factory adjustability, several aftermarket solutions are popular for the 2016 Ram 1500:

• SPC (Specialty Products Company) Cam Bolts: These are a very common and highly recommended solution for adjusting front camber and caster on vehicles like the Ram 1500 that lack factory adjustment. They replace the factory lower control arm bolts with eccentric ones, allowing for significant adjustment range.
• Adjustable Control Arms: For enthusiasts or those with lifted trucks, adjustable upper or lower control arms offer an even greater range of adjustment for both camber and caster, often preferred for more extreme alignment corrections.
• Eccentric Bushings/Shims: For minor rear camber or toe issues, eccentric bushings or shims might be available to provide a small amount of adjustment without replacing major components.

Symptoms of bad alignment

A misaligned vehicle can manifest in various ways, often impacting safety, tire life, and fuel economy. Here are common symptoms:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most common indicator.
  • Feathering: Saw-tooth pattern across the tread, often indicating excessive toe.
  • Inner or Outer Edge Wear: Excessive wear on one edge of the tire, typically pointing to incorrect camber.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: Pothole-like wear patterns, which can be caused by worn suspension components or an alignment issue exacerbated by worn shocks.
• Vehicle Pulling: The vehicle consistently pulls to one side when driving on a flat road, requiring constant steering correction.
• Off-Center Steering Wheel: The steering wheel is not centered when the vehicle is traveling straight.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: The vehicle feels unstable and difficult to keep in a straight line.
• Squealing Tires: Tires squeal during turns even at low speeds.

When to align

Regular alignment checks are crucial, and certain events necessitate an immediate inspection:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Any time a component related to steering or suspension (e.g., tie rod ends, ball joints, control arms, shocks/struts) is replaced, an alignment is mandatory.
• After Installing New Tires: To ensure maximum tire life and even wear, a fresh set of tires should always be followed by an alignment.
• After Hitting a Pothole or Curb: A significant impact can easily throw off alignment.
• Every 12 Months or 10,000-15,000 Miles: This is a good general guideline for preventative maintenance.
• When You Notice Any of the Symptoms Above: Don't wait if you detect an issue with your vehicle's handling or tire wear.

Typical alignment cost

The cost of a wheel alignment can vary widely based on location, shop, and whether any aftermarket adjustments are required. A typical 2-wheel (front only) alignment for a truck like the Ram 1500 might range from $80 to $120. A 4-wheel alignment (which is recommended even if the rear is not directly adjustable, as it measures thrust angle and ensures everything is square) could cost between $100 and $160. If aftermarket parts (like cam bolts) need to be installed, or if seized components require extra labor, the cost will increase. Specialty shops or those performing custom alignment for lifted vehicles may charge more.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.