2020 Subaru Forester Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick Reference

Adjustability

On the 2020 Subaru Forester, factory adjustments are somewhat limited.

• Front Toe: This is fully adjustable via the tie rod ends. This is the most common adjustment needed and ensures your steering wheel is straight and the front tires are pointing correctly relative to each other.
• Front Camber & Caster: From the factory, front camber and caster on the 2020 Forester are generally not directly adjustable without aftermarket solutions. Some minor adjustments can sometimes be made by shifting the subframe, but this is not a primary alignment method. To achieve significant changes in front camber or caster (often needed after suspension modifications or to correct wear issues), aftermarket camber bolts or adjustable control arms are typically required.
• Rear Toe: Rear toe on the 2020 Forester is adjustable through eccentric cams on the lower control arms. This allows for precise tuning of the rear wheels' angle relative to the vehicle's centerline.
• Rear Camber: Similar to the front, rear camber is also often not directly adjustable from the factory on the 2020 Forester. Some models may have a small amount of adjustment available through eccentric bolts, but significant changes usually necessitate aftermarket camber kits, such as adjustable lateral links.

Recommended Adjustment Hardware

For situations where factory adjustments are insufficient, especially for correcting extreme wear or after installing aftermarket suspension components, specific hardware can be used:

• Front Camber/Caster: Aftermarket eccentric cam bolts or adjustable control arms are the most common solutions. Brands like SPC Performance or Whiteline offer popular options that allow for a wider range of adjustment.
• Rear Camber: Adjustable rear lateral links or eccentric bushings can be installed to bring the rear camber into specification.

Symptoms of Bad Alignment

Ignoring alignment issues can lead to premature tire wear, compromised handling, and an unsafe driving experience. Here are common symptoms:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most telling sign.
  • Feathering: Saw-tooth pattern across the tire tread, often indicating excessive toe.
  • Inner or Outer Shoulder Wear: One side of the tire tread is worn more than the other, often pointing to incorrect camber.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: Pothole-like depressions around the tire, which can be caused by worn suspension components or extreme alignment issues.
• Vehicle Pulling: Your Forester veers to one side without steering input, requiring constant correction to stay straight. This can be due to incorrect camber or caster on one side, or an excessive thrust angle.
• Steering Wheel Not Centered: Even when driving straight, the steering wheel is off-center. This is typically a result of incorrect toe settings.
• Loose or Wandering Steering: The vehicle feels unstable and difficult to keep in a straight line, often associated with insufficient caster.
• Squealing Tires: Tires making noise during turns can sometimes indicate excessive toe settings.

When to Align

Regular alignment checks are crucial for maintaining tire life and vehicle safety. Here are key times to get an alignment:

• After Suspension or Steering Component Replacement: Anytime parts like tie rods, ball joints, control arms, struts, or springs are replaced, an alignment is mandatory.
• After Installing New Tires: To ensure you get the maximum lifespan out of your new investment.
• After an Accident or Hitting a Large Pothole/Curb: Even a seemingly minor impact can throw your alignment off.
• Every 15,000 Miles or Annually: As a preventative measure, even if you don't notice any issues.
• When You Notice Any of the Above Symptoms: Don't wait for tire wear to become severe; address alignment problems promptly.

Typical Alignment Cost

The cost of a wheel alignment can vary based on your location, the shop, and whether any adjustments require seized parts to be freed or aftermarket parts to be installed. Generally, you can expect a 2020 Subaru Forester wheel alignment to cost anywhere from $90 to $150 for a standard four-wheel alignment. If specialized aftermarket parts are needed or significant labor is involved in freeing seized components, the cost can be higher. Always ask for a detailed quote.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.