Eccentric Screws: The Secret Weapon for Precision Wheel Alignment
When it comes to professional wheel alignment, eccentric screws play a critical role in fine-tuning your vehicle's camber and toe angles. These specialized fasteners allow mechanics to make micro-adjustments that standard alignment bolts can't achieve. But when should you use them, and how do they work?
1. When Are Eccentric Screws Needed?
Wheel Alignment Out of Spec
- When camber or toe angles exceed factory adjustment ranges, eccentric screws provide extra adjustability.
- Common in lowered cars, collision-repaired vehicles, or those with worn suspension components.
Aftermarket Suspension Modifications
- Lowering springs, coilovers, or non-OEM control arms often require eccentric screws for proper alignment.
Uneven Tire Wear or Vehicle Pulling
- If tires show inner/outer edge wear or the car drifts to one side, eccentric screws can correct misaligned angles.
2. How Eccentric Screws Work
These screws feature an offset design—the bolt center doesn't align with the thread center. When rotated, they shift the mounting point slightly, allowing precise angle adjustments.
- Camber Adjustment: Used on MacPherson strut upper mounts or control arm bolts.
- Toe Adjustment: Installed on tie rods or rear suspension arms.
3. How to Install & Adjust Eccentric Screws
Installation Steps
- Lift the vehicle – Support the suspension at ride height.
- Remove OEM bolts – Check if eccentric screws are already present (some performance models include them).
- Install eccentric screws – Insert with the offset facing the correct direction, then hand-tighten (don’t torque yet).
- Align with a wheel alignment machine – Rotate the screw until camber/toe values are within spec.
- Torque to spec & recheck – Finalize adjustments and verify alignment data.
Pro Tips
- Mark the starting position – Use a paint pen for reference.
- Make small adjustments – Turn 15°-30° at a time to avoid overcorrection.
- Test drive – Ensure steering centering and straight-line stability.
4. Market Trends: Why Demand Is Growing
- Rise of car customization – More enthusiasts lowering cars or upgrading suspensions.
- Alignment shops adopting them – Essential for precision adjustments beyond factory specs.
- Aging vehicle maintenance – Helps compensate for worn bushings and sagging suspensions.
5. Safety Considerations
⚠ Always torque properly – Loose bolts can cause dangerous suspension failure.
⚠ Leave it to pros if unsure – Incorrect adjustments may accelerate tire wear.
⚠ Buy quality hardware – Cheap eccentric screws can shear under stress.
Final Thought: Does Your Ride Need Eccentric Screws?
Whether fixing tire wear, improving handling, or dialing in your stance, eccentric screws deliver the precision your alignment needs. Will you tackle the adjustment yourself or leave it to an alignment specialist?
Keywords: Eccentric screws, wheel alignment, camber adjustment, toe adjustment, performance alignment, lowered car suspension
