2018 Volvo VNR Wheel Alignment Specifications

Quick reference

These specifications are for a stock 2018 Volvo VNR. Suspension modifications, tire size changes, and vehicle load can all affect these angles. Values are shown in degrees.

Adjustability

Understanding which angles can be adjusted from the factory is key to diagnosing and correcting alignment issues on the 2018 Volvo VNR.

Front Axle:

• Adjustable: Caster and Toe. Front toe is the most common and critical adjustment, performed by lengthening or shortening the tie rod ends. Caster is adjustable via eccentric bushings or shims at the axle mount points.
• Non-Adjustable: Camber and Steering Axis Inclination (SAI). These angles are built into the geometry of the solid front axle and steering knuckles. If camber or SAI are out of specification, it typically indicates that a component is bent or damaged (e.g., bent axle beam, spindle) and must be replaced.

Rear Axles (Tandem):

• Adjustable: Toe and Thrust Angle. On tandem-axle trucks like the VNR, rear axle alignment is critical to prevent tire scrubbing and ensure fuel efficiency. Adjustments are typically made by loosening the axle mounting U-bolts and using specialized alignment jigs or slotted brackets to shift the axles into the correct position relative to the frame. This process ensures the axles are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the vehicle centerline, which sets the thrust angle to zero.
• Non-Adjustable: Camber. The rear drive axles have a fixed camber angle, which should be at or very near zero degrees. If rear camber is out of spec, it usually points to a bent axle housing or worn hub and bearings.

Recommended adjustment hardware

For a 2018 Volvo VNR, most adjustments use factory-provided mechanisms. However, in cases of damage or to correct for issues outside the normal range, some hardware may be necessary.

• Front Caster: While adjustable from the factory, if the range is insufficient, specialized eccentric bushings can provide a greater degree of adjustment.
• Front Camber: As this is a non-adjustable angle on a solid beam axle, there are no recommended adjustment kits. Correction requires replacing bent or damaged parts such as the axle beam itself.
• Rear Toe/Thrust: The factory mounting hardware is designed to allow for adjustment. No special aftermarket kits are typically required unless the mounting points themselves have been damaged or worn, in which case replacement of OEM components is the correct procedure.

Symptoms of bad alignment

Your truck will give you signs when the alignment is off. Paying attention to these symptoms can save you thousands of dollars in tires and fuel.

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is the most common sign.
  • One-Sided Wear: The inner or outer shoulder of the tire is worn smooth while the other side has tread. This is a classic sign of incorrect camber.
  • Feathering: When you run your hand over the tread blocks, they feel sharp in one direction and smooth in the other, like the feathers on a bird. This indicates an incorrect toe setting, which causes the tires to scuff sideways as they roll forward.
  • Cupping/Scalloping: This pattern of dips or cups around the edge of the tire is often a sign of worn suspension components but can be aggravated by a bad alignment.
• Steering Wheel Pull: The vehicle consistently drifts to the left or right when you are on a flat, straight road and the steering wheel is centered. This can be caused by incorrect caster or camber.
• Crooked Steering Wheel: To drive straight, you have to hold the steering wheel off-center. This is a clear indication that the front and/or rear toe settings are incorrect.

When to align

Wheel alignment should be considered routine maintenance, not just a repair. We recommend a full three-axle alignment in the following situations:

• After purchasing new tires: A proper alignment is the best way to protect your investment and ensure you get the maximum life out of your new tires.
• After any suspension or steering repairs: Replacing components like tie rod ends, kingpins, leaf springs, or axle components will alter the alignment settings.
• After hitting a curb, pothole, or other road hazard: A significant impact can easily knock the alignment out of specification, even if no visible damage is present.
• Every 50,000–60,000 miles or annually: As a preventative maintenance measure to catch any issues before they cause excessive tire wear or handling problems.

Typical alignment cost

A proper three-axle alignment on a heavy-duty truck like the Volvo VNR is more involved than on a passenger car. It requires a specialized, heavy-duty rack and a technician experienced with commercial vehicles. Costs can vary based on location and shop labor rates, but you can typically expect to pay between $250 and $600 for a comprehensive alignment that checks and adjusts all axles.

Find a trusted alignment shop on Repairius.