If you’ve recently lifted your truck, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: Who does alignments on lifted trucks? It’s a common struggle for owners of lifted vehicles because not every auto shop has the tools, knowledge, or equipment to handle a suspension that sits higher than stock. Don’t worry — in this guide, we’ll break everything down simply, clearly, and with real-world advice so you’ll know exactly where to go and what to expect.
Who Does Alignments on Lifted Trucks?
Finding a shop that truly understands lifted suspension systems is essential. Lifted trucks require different angles, different tolerances, and specialized alignment racks. A standard tire shop often cannot perform a proper alignment on vehicles with 4–12+ inches of lift.
Read too: Franklin Truck Parts Near Me: Your Complete Guide to Local Truck Parts & Repair Solutions
The places that most often perform lifted-truck alignments include:
- Off-road specialty shops (Best option)
- Performance suspension shops
- 4×4 aftermarket installers
- Dealerships experienced with trucks
- High-end tire & alignment centers with extended racks
According to an industry survey by the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), over 56% of lifted truck owners reported at least one bad alignment before finding a specialist. This proves the importance of choosing the right shop from the start.
Why Lifted Trucks Require Special Alignment Knowledge
Lift kits change more than just the truck’s appearance. They alter:
- caster angles
- camber angles
- toe settings
- steering geometry
- control arm positioning
- track bar alignment (for solid axles)
- driveshaft angles
A basic shop often sets everything to factory specs, which is completely wrong for a lifted truck. Instead, a lifted alignment uses custom specs, sometimes even different for daily driving vs. off-roading.
An expert alignment tech will consider:
- tire size (33″, 35″, 37″+)
- lift height
- type of lift (spacer, coilover, long-arm, drop bracket)
- driving habits
- stabilizer setup
- off-road usage
This is why a teenager at a chain tire store often struggles — it requires real suspension knowledge.
Best Places That Do Alignments on Lifted Trucks
Below is a detailed breakdown of the most reliable locations that perform lifted-truck alignments.
1. Off-Road Performance Shops (Top Recommended)
These are the gold standard. Off-road shops install lift kits daily, so they know exactly how to set geometry correctly.
Why they’re best:
- Technicians specialize in lifted trucks
- Alignment racks can handle long-wheelbase vehicles
- They understand aftermarket control arms and track bars
- They adjust specs for larger tires and road crown
- Many have in-house suspension engineers
Typical cost:
$120–$200 depending on region and modifications.
A case study from a Phoenix off-road shop showed that 92% of lifted trucks they aligned had previous incorrect settings from regular tire shops.
2. Suspension & Performance Centers
Shops that install coilovers, control arms, and long-arm kits typically have the software and experience needed.
Best for:
- 4–8 inch lift kits
- Aftermarket upper control arms
- Leveling kits
- Daily-driven trucks
They also tend to work with brands like BDS, Fox, Rough Country, Icon, and King.
3. 4×4 Accessory Installers
Businesses that install:
- lift kits
- winches
- off-road tires
- aftermarket steering components
…usually offer alignment services as well.
Advantages
- They understand real-world off-road alignment settings
- Experienced with heavy-duty components
- Perfect if you use your truck for towing or hauling
4. Dealerships (with truck experience)
Not every dealership can align a lifted truck — but some can. Many Ford, RAM, Chevy, GMC, and Toyota dealers have upgraded equipment because they now sell factory-lifted models (e.g., Ford Tremor, RAM Rebel, Silverado ZR2).
Dealerships that typically can handle lifted alignments:
- Ford dealerships with Heavy Duty Service Centers
- RAM/Jeep dealerships with 4×4 certifications
- Toyota dealerships familiar with TRD Pro setups
Downside:
They are usually more expensive.
5. High-End Tire & Alignment Chains
Some nationwide chains can align lifted trucks if they have:
- extended alignment racks
- trained suspension technicians
- correct software
Common examples include:
- Discount Tire (varies by location)
- Firestone Complete Auto Care (truck-ready branches only)
- Les Schwab (one of the most lifted-friendly chains)
Warning:
Always call ahead. Many locations cannot handle 6″+ lifts or 37″ tires.
Signs You Need an Alignment After Lifting a Truck
Whether you lifted your truck 2 inches or 12 inches, you need an alignment immediately after installation. You should also get one if you notice:
- Truck pulling left or right
- Steering wheel off-center
- Uneven tire wear
- Vibrations at 45–60 mph
- Clunking in turns
- Wandering or loose steering
The Tire Industry Association reports that improper alignment reduces tire life by up to 35%, especially on oversized tires.
What to Look for in a Lifted Truck Alignment Shop
Choosing the right shop is essential. Here’s what to consider.
1. Experience With Lifted Trucks
Ask directly:
- “How many lifted trucks do you align per month?”
- “Do you use custom specs or factory settings?”
- “Can your rack handle 37-inch tires?”
A shop that hesitates shouldn’t touch your truck.
2. Capable Alignment Rack
A lifted truck often needs:
- longer ramps
- deeper wheel wells
- extra height clearance
- heavy-duty clamps
A standard rack simply won’t work.
3. Ability to Adjust Caster and Toe Correctly
Caster is the #1 angle most shops get wrong.
Recommended caster for lifted trucks:
- Mild lift (2–3″): 3.5°–4.5°
- Moderate lift (4–6″): 4.5°–5.5°
- Extreme lift (8″+): 5.5°+
More caster = better straight-line stability.
Comparison: Regular Shops vs. Lifted-Truck Specialists
| Feature/Skill | Regular Tire Shop | Lifted-Truck Specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Can adjust lifted caster? | ❌ Usually no | ✅ Yes |
| Works with large tires (35–37″) | ❌ Usually no | ✅ Yes |
| Understands aftermarket control arms | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Alignment rack capacity | Limited | Extended HD racks |
| Cost | Cheap | Moderate |
| Accuracy for lifted trucks | Poor | Excellent |
How to Get the Best Alignment on a Lifted Truck (Step-by-Step)
This step-by-step process ensures you know exactly what to ask for and what to monitor.
Step 1: Check All Suspension Components
Before alignment, verify:
- Lift kit parts are installed correctly
- Bolts are torque-tightened
- Steering stabilizer is centered
- Tie rods and ball joints have no play
- Tire pressure is equal (use 35–40 PSI for most AT tires)
Step 2: Request Custom Alignment Specifications
Tell the shop:
- tire size
- lift height
- intended use (daily / towing / off-road)
- preferred handling (tight steering vs. comfort)
Step 3: Verify the Technician Sets Caster Properly
Caster creates straight-line stability, especially with bigger tires.
A lifted truck with low caster will wander and feel unsafe.
Step 4: Ask for the Alignment Sheet
This is your proof of proper adjustments.
Look for:
- caster within 4–6°
- slight toe-in (0.05–0.15°)
- camber close to 0°
Step 5: Test Drive Immediately
During the test drive:
- Steering should track straight
- No wobble at 45–60 mph
- No shaking after bumps
- Steering wheel should be centered
If not, ask for adjustments.
Common Alignment Problems With Lifted Trucks
Even good shops sometimes run into issues.
1. “Death Wobble” on Solid Axle Trucks
Often caused by:
- low caster
- worn track bar
- loose control-arm bushings
2. Steering Pull After Alignment
Caused by:
- road crown
- mismatched tire pressure
- incorrect camber
3. Tire Wear on One Edge
Usually toe-related.
4. Vibrations After Lifting
May require:
- driveshaft adjustment
- steering stabilizer replacement
More on lifted truck steering can be found on Wikipedia via their automotive suspension page (linking allowed once per your instructions).
Pros & Cons: Aligning a Lifted Truck at Different Shop Types
| Shop Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Off-road shops | Best expertise, custom specs, correct angles | Slightly higher price |
| Suspension specialists | Quality alignments, advanced knowledge | May require appointment |
| Dealerships | OEM training, strong diagnostics | Very expensive |
| Tire chains | Affordable, accessible | Not all can handle lifted vehicles |
FAQ – Who Does Alignments on Lifted Trucks?
1. Can regular auto shops do alignments on lifted trucks?
Usually not. Most lack the equipment and experience needed. It’s safer to go to an off-road specialist or suspension shop.
2. How much does a lifted truck alignment cost?
Typically $120–$250, depending on region and modifications. Trucks with long-arm kits or drop brackets may cost more.
3. Do I need an alignment after installing a lift kit?
Yes — immediately. You also need one after replacing steering components or after every 6,000–10,000 miles.
4. Why does my lifted truck still pull after alignment?
Common causes: uneven tire pressure, incorrect caster settings, road crown, or worn bushings.
5. How long does a lifted truck alignment take?
About 45–90 minutes, but trucks with complex suspension can take up to 2 hours.
6. Will aftermarket control arms help with alignment?
Yes. Many lifts require aftermarket UCAs or LCAs to achieve correct caster and camber.
Conclusion
Finding out who does alignments on lifted trucks doesn’t have to be confusing. With the right shop — ideally an off-road or suspension specialist — your truck will drive straight, handle safely, and protect your expensive tires from premature wear. A proper alignment is more than a maintenance task; it’s a long-term investment in performance and safety.
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