2019 Subaru Crosstrek Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Please note: These are general specifications. Always refer to the most up-to-date OEM service information for precise values for your specific vehicle.

Adjustability

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek offers some factory adjustability for its wheel alignment, but not all angles are easily changed. Understanding what can and cannot be adjusted is crucial for proper alignment.

Front Axle Adjustments

• Front Total Toe / Individual Toe: This is the primary alignment angle that is factory adjustable on the front of the Crosstrek. Toe is adjusted via the tie rod ends, which lengthen or shorten the tie rods to change the angle of the front wheels relative to each other. This is a routine adjustment during any alignment.
• Front Camber: From the factory, front camber on the 2019 Crosstrek is generally non-adjustable. If your vehicle exhibits camber outside the specified range, it usually indicates worn suspension components, damage from an impact, or the need for aftermarket correction. Aftermarket camber bolts or slotted strut bracket kits are commonly used to introduce adjustability for camber.
• Front Caster: Similar to camber, front caster is non-adjustable from the factory on the 2019 Crosstrek. Caster is set by the design of the suspension components. If caster is out of spec, it often points to bent suspension parts (such as a control arm or strut), chassis damage, or the need for aftermarket control arms or eccentric bushings to achieve adjustment.

Rear Axle Adjustments

• Rear Total Toe / Individual Toe: The rear toe on the 2019 Crosstrek is factory adjustable. This is typically accomplished using eccentric bolts on the lower control arms, allowing for precise adjustment of each rear wheel's toe angle.
• Rear Camber: Rear camber on the 2019 Crosstrek is generally not adjustable from the factory. If rear camber is outside the acceptable range, it may suggest worn or bent suspension components. Aftermarket camber kits, often involving eccentric bushings or adjustable control arms, are available to correct this if necessary.
• Thrust Angle: Thrust angle is determined by the rear toe settings. While not directly adjusted, achieving the correct rear individual toe angles will result in the correct thrust angle.

Recommended adjustment hardware

Since front camber and caster are not factory-adjustable, and rear camber also lacks factory adjustment, owners of a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek might consider aftermarket solutions if these angles consistently fall outside the acceptable ranges due to wear, damage, or for specific performance needs. Popular options include:

• SPC Performance Camber Bolts: These are frequently recommended for the front struts to provide several degrees of camber adjustment. They replace original equipment bolts and allow for a more precise setting. For the rear, similar cam bolt kits or adjustable control arms can be found.
• Adjustable Control Arms/Bushings: For more significant adjustments, especially if there's damage or if lifting/lowering the vehicle, adjustable lower control arms or eccentric bushings can correct both camber and caster on the front, and camber on the rear.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Improper wheel alignment can lead to a variety of issues, impacting tire life, fuel economy, and driving safety. Keep an eye out for these common symptoms:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most glaring sign. Different alignment issues cause distinct wear patterns:
  • Feathering: Sawtooth-like wear across the tread blocks, often indicative of excessive toe-in or toe-out.
  • Inner or Outer Edge Wear: One side of the tire is significantly more worn than the other, pointing to excessive negative or positive camber.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: Pothole-like dips around the tire circumference, often linked to worn suspension components in conjunction with alignment issues.
• Vehicle Pulling or Drifting: Your car constantly wants to steer to one side, requiring you to hold the steering wheel off-center to drive straight. This is a classic sign of incorrect camber or caster, or uneven toe settings.
• Off-Center Steering Wheel: Even when driving straight, your steering wheel isn't centered. This can be caused by improper toe settings.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: The vehicle feels difficult to keep in a straight line, requiring constant small corrections. This can be caused by excessive toe-out or insufficient caster.
• Vibrations: While often related to tire imbalance, alignment issues can sometimes contribute to vibrations felt through the steering wheel or seat, especially at higher speeds.

When to align

Regular wheel alignments are part of good vehicle maintenance. Here are key times when you should definitely get an alignment check:

• After Replacing Suspension or Steering Components: Any time parts like tie rods, control arms, struts, or ball joints are replaced, an alignment is mandatory.
• After Installing New Tires: To ensure your new tires wear evenly and last their full lifespan, an alignment is recommended.
• After an Accident or Hitting a Large Pothole/Curb: Even minor impacts can throw your alignment off. If you suspect damage, get it checked.
• Annually or Every 12,000–15,000 Miles: As a preventative measure, a yearly alignment check can catch minor issues before they become major problems.
• When You Notice Any Alignment Symptoms: Don't wait if you observe uneven tire wear, pulling, or an off-center steering wheel.

Typical alignment cost

The cost of a wheel alignment for a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek can vary based on your location, the type of shop (dealership vs. independent), and whether any additional parts or labor are required (e.g., if seized bolts need freeing). Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 for a standard four-wheel alignment. Some shops offer alignment packages or warranties. It's always best to call around and get a few quotes.

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