Which wheel alignment angle primarily influences steering stability?

• A. Camber
• B. Toe
• C. Caster
• D. Sway

Answer: (C)

Caster determines how steadily the steering tends to stay on course. It’s the tilt of the steering axis in the side view, and when it’s positively tilted (top toward the rear), a trail is created between the tire’s contact patch and the steering axis. That trail generates a self-centering moment as the wheels roll, helping the vehicle return to straight ahead after turning and improving straight-line stability. It also gives the driver a sense of control and feedback at speed.

Camber is about how the wheel tilts in or out at the top, affecting how the tire grips during cornering and wear. Toe is about whether the wheels point in or out relative to the vehicle’s centerline, influencing tire scrub and straight-line stability. Sway isn’t a standard wheel alignment angle and doesn’t directly govern steering stability. So the angle most responsible for steering stability is caster.