2015 Toyota Highlander Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

Adjustability

On a 2015 Toyota Highlander, front camber and caster are not adjustable from the factory. The front subframe and strut mounting points are fixed. To adjust front camber or caster, you will need to install aftermarket cam bolts in the lower strut-to-knuckle mounting holes. These bolts have a lobe on the washer that allows for a small range of adjustment.

Front toe is the primary adjustment angle. It is easily adjusted by loosening the lock nuts on the outer tie rod ends and turning the inner tie rod to effectively lengthen or shorten the steering linkage.

In the rear, only toe is adjustable. Rear toe is adjusted via an eccentric cam bolt on the inboard mounting point of the rear lower control arm. Loosening the nut and turning the bolt head will shift the arm, changing the toe angle.

Rear camber is not adjustable. If rear camber is out of specification, it typically indicates a bent or damaged component, such as the knuckle, strut, or control arm, which must be replaced.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For most 2015 Highlanders that require front camber adjustment, a common solution is the SPC Performance Camber/Caster Kit (Part No. 81260). These are 14mm bolts that replace the original non-adjustable upper knuckle-to-strut bolts. They provide a range of up to +/- 1.50 degrees of camber and caster change, which is typically sufficient to bring slightly off-spec measurements back into the green.

Symptoms of bad alignment

A misaligned vehicle will often exhibit several distinct symptoms, many of which are noticeable in the tires:

• Feathering: When the tread blocks are worn smooth on one side and sharp on the other, it's a classic sign of a bad toe setting. You can feel this by running your hand across the tread.
• Camber Wear: Excessive positive or negative camber will cause wear on the outer or inner shoulder of the tire, respectively. If the inside edge of your tires is bald while the outside is fine, you have too much negative camber.
• Pulling or Drifting: The vehicle may drift or pull to one side while driving on a straight, flat road. This is often caused by unequal camber or caster from side to side.
• Off-center Steering Wheel: To drive straight, you have to hold the steering wheel at an angle. This is a direct result of the alignment being off, particularly the total toe.

When to align

It is recommended to have your Highlander's alignment checked annually, but a check is essential at the following times:

• After installing new tires: To ensure you get the maximum life out of your new investment and prevent premature wear.
• After suspension or steering component replacement: Any time a part that affects geometry is replaced (e.g., struts, control arms, tie rods, ball joints), the alignment must be reset.
• After a significant impact: Hitting a large pothole, curb, or being in a minor accident can easily knock the alignment out of specification.

Typical alignment cost

The cost for a four-wheel alignment on a 2015 Toyota Highlander typically ranges from $120 to $200. This price can vary based on your location, the shop's labor rate, and whether any specialty adjustment kits are needed. If aftermarket cam bolts must be installed to correct front camber, expect to pay for both the parts and the additional labor to install them.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.