They say necessity is the mother of invention—and in the world of motorsports, that couldn’t be more true. In 2006, while drifting BMWs, the founder of SLRspeed realized a frustrating truth: no one made proper drift parts for these cars. So, instead of waiting for someone else to step up, he designed his own.
From custom knuckles and Ackerman geometry experiments to full-angle kits, his garage soon became the birthplace of what would later be known as SLRspeed—a company now empowering drivers worldwide with innovative steering and suspension solutions.
But today, we’re talking about one thing every driver—whether a weekend drifter or daily commuter—should know: how to perform a diy car wheel alignment. It’s a skill that can save you money, improve your car’s handling, and even extend tire life.
Why Wheel Alignment Matters
Before we roll up our sleeves, let’s understand why alignment is such a big deal. Your car’s alignment refers to how your wheels are positioned relative to each other and to the road. Proper alignment ensures:
- Even tire wear (saves money in the long run)
- Improved handling and safety
- Better fuel efficiency
- More precise steering response
Misaligned wheels can make your car feel unstable at high speeds, pull to one side, or chew through tires faster than you can say “new set of Michelins, please.”
The Evolution of DIY Alignment Tools
Back in the early 2000s, if you wanted to adjust your alignment, you had two options:
- Pay a shop with an expensive laser alignment rig.
- Use questionable backyard methods that often made things worse.
SLRspeed’s founder knew there had to be a better way. In 2009, after successfully selling basic angle kits for BMWs, he set his sights on making alignment easier and more precise for enthusiasts—without the need for costly shop visits. By 2007, he was already sketching the concept of a 100% bolt-on roll-center, bump-steer, and quick-steer solution.
The result? A system that gave drivers pro-level alignment control right in their own garage—no welding, no shipping heavy parts, no headaches.
Understanding Alignment Angles
Before grabbing tools, you need to know the three main angles that define alignment:
- Camber – The inward or outward tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front. Negative camber (top leaning inward) improves cornering grip but can wear tires faster if overdone.
- Caster – The tilt of the steering axis when viewed from the side. More positive caster gives better high-speed stability and steering feel.
- Toe – The direction the wheels point relative to each other when viewed from above. Slight toe-in improves straight-line stability; slight toe-out sharpens turn-in for racing.
Tools You’ll Need for a DIY Car Wheel Alignment
Here’s the good news: you don’t need a $20,000 laser alignment machine. With some basic tools and patience, you can get the job done at home.
- Tape measure or toe plates
- Camber gauge (digital or bubble type)
- Jack and jack stands
- Wrenches and socket set
- Marker or chalk
- String or fishing line (for string alignment method)
- Patience and attention to detail (seriously, this is key)
Step-by-Step: DIY Car Wheel Alignment
1. Prep Your Car
- Park on a level surface.
- Ensure tires are properly inflated.
- Bounce the car a few times to settle the suspension.
2. Check and Adjust Camber
- Attach the camber gauge to the wheel hub.
- Compare readings to your target spec (factory or performance setup).
- Loosen the camber bolts and adjust until the reading matches your desired angle.
- Tighten bolts securely.
3. Set Up String Lines
- Run string along each side of the car, parallel to the vehicle centerline.
- The string should be at hub height and equidistant from the wheel centers.
4. Measure Toe
- Measure from the front edge of the rim to the string, and then from the rear edge of the rim to the string.
- Adjust the tie rods until you achieve your target toe settings (slight toe-in for street, toe-out for track, depending on handling goals).
5. Recheck Everything
- Double-check all measurements after tightening bolts.
- Test drive and note steering feel. Adjust as necessary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not accounting for suspension settling after adjustments—always roll the car back and forth before re-measuring.
- Over-adjusting—small tweaks go a long way.
- Ignoring worn suspension components—bushings, ball joints, and tie rods must be in good condition before aligning.
The SLRspeed Advantage
Here’s where SLRspeed enters the chat. While DIY alignment is possible with basic tools, SLRspeed’s bolt-on steering and suspension kits are engineered for precision, repeatability, and adjustability.
For example:
- Roll-center correction to restore geometry after lowering your car.
- Bump-steer adjustment for predictable handling at full lock.
- Quick-steer ratio changes for faster response on track.
These upgrades mean you’re not just aligning your car—you’re optimizing it for your driving style. Whether you’re a grassroots drifter or a weekend canyon carver, SLRspeed’s parts give you the confidence to push harder, knowing your geometry is dialed in.
Why More Enthusiasts Are Going DIY
Aside from saving on shop fees, DIY alignment teaches you something shops rarely do: how alignment changes affect your car’s behavior. This knowledge lets you fine-tune your setup for each track day, rally stage, or Sunday drive.
And with the growing availability of affordable, accurate tools—plus engineering solutions like those from SLRspeed—enthusiasts have more control than ever before.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Home Alignment
With 3D-printed jigs, smartphone-based camber apps, and advanced bolt-on kits, the future of DIY car wheel alignment is only getting brighter. As SLRspeed continues innovating, drivers can expect even more user-friendly systems that blend precision with simplicity.
Just like in 2006, the goal remains the same: give enthusiasts the tools to take control of their cars—without compromise.
Final Thought:
Your car’s alignment is more than just numbers on a sheet—it’s the foundation of how it feels on the road. Whether you’re chasing tenths on a track or enjoying a spirited weekend drive, a well-aligned car inspires confidence. And thanks to modern tools, a bit of patience, and companies like SLRspeed, that perfect setup is now within everyone’s reach.