Caster & Camber Kits for Mazda 3

Mazda 3 Caster and Camber Kits

The Mazda 3 is a compact sedan known for its sleek style and smooth ride. To keep these Mazda cars operating at peak performance, however, you need to maintain proper wheel alignment. When you notice that the suspension system is not functioning properly, the caster and camber angles may need to be adjusted.

What are the camber and caster angles?

The caster and camber are suspension angles that impact the operation of a Mazda vehicles tires. When these measurements are out of whack, it can cause the whole suspension system to become misaligned. This affects driving performance, tire wear, and much more. These angles represent the following:

  • Caster: This measures the degree to which the steering pivot axis is tilted. When it is tilted backward, it signifies a positive camber measurement. When it is tilted forward, the measurement is negative. The Mazda 3 usually has a positive measurement of 3 to 5 degrees, which helps to improve straight-line stability. It is also important that all four wheels have the same measurement to ensure the vehicle will not pull to one side.
  • Camber: This measures the angle of the wheel compared to the vertical axis. A negative camber measurement indicates that the wheel is leaning in toward the car, and a positive measurement indicates that the wheel is leaning away from the car. This measurement has a big impact on a Mazdas road holding as tire force is largely predicated on its angle compared to road surface. Many Mazda 3 cars are equipped with suspension systems that allow the camber angle to shift slightly depending on driving needs.
What are signs that a Mazda 3 has alignment issues?

Most Mazda vehicles come equipped with specific positive caster and negative camber measurements. This provides drivers with the optimal alignment. When the wheels are no longer aligned according to the Mazdas specifications, however, drivers may notice the following:

  • Excessive tire wear: When wheel alignment is out of whack, it puts uneven pressure on the tires. This causes tires to wear out more quickly.
  • Drifting cars: If the car pulls to one side, it is usually caused by incorrect camber angle. When this happens, drivers have to put continuous pressure on the steering wheel to get the vehicle to drive in a straight line. When the alignment settings are adjusted, the vehicle should stop drifting to one side.
  • Jerking cars: If the caster angle is incorrect, the cars steering mechanism may feel stiff or jerky. Small adjustments can make the steering process easier and more efficient.
When should you buy a caster/camber kit?

These kits give drivers the components they need to make wheel alignment adjustments. They allow Mazda 3 owners to make precise alterations to their vehicles alignment settings by exact degrees. These kits can also improve vehicle stability and reduce wear on tires.