What alignment angle measures the inward or outward tilt of the tire?

The alignment angle that measures the inward or outward tilt of the tire is known as camber. This angle is important because it affects how the tire contacts the road. When the top of the tire tilts inward towards the vehicle, it is referred to as negative camber, while tilting outward is called positive camber.

Correct camber settings can improve tire wear and vehicle handling. If the tires have too much negative camber, they may wear faster on the inner edge, and excessive positive camber can lead to premature wear on the outer edge. Therefore, understanding camber is crucial for ensuring that the tires are properly aligned and performing efficiently.

In contrast, other alignment angles like toe measure the direction the tires point relative to the centerline of the vehicle, caster relates to the steering axis angle which impacts steering feel and stability, and thrust refers to the direction the rear wheels are aligned relative to the front wheels. Each of these angles has distinct effects on vehicle performance, but only camber specifically addresses the tilt of the tires themselves.