Alignment Camber Shim

What Are Alignment Camber Shims?

Alignment camber shims are small but critically important suspension components used to fine-tune a vehicle's wheel alignment angles. Alignment camber shims are wedge-shaped or flat precision pieces inserted between suspension mounting points — such as between a control arm and the vehicle's frame or strut assembly — to adjust the camber, caster, or toe angle of the wheels. Even a fraction of a degree out of specification can have measurable consequences for how a vehicle drives, steers, and how quickly it wears through tires.

Why Camber Shims Matter

Camber is the inward or outward tilt of a tire when viewed from the front of the vehicle. When camber is off, tires don't sit flat against the road, leading to uneven contact patches and accelerated wear on the inner or outer edges of the tread. Proper wheel alignment is essential for even tire wear, optimal handling, and improved fuel efficiency. Misalignment can result from everyday driving conditions — potholes, curb impacts, or simply accumulated wear on suspension bushings — gradually pushing the geometry out of spec.

Shims of different thicknesses are used to adjust caster and camber angles with precision, and when two shims of the same thickness are installed or removed from each bolt location, camber is adjusted without affecting caster. If shims of different thicknesses are used, both caster and camber can be corrected simultaneously. This makes them invaluable tools for dialing in alignment on both stock-height and modified vehicles.

Camber shims are also a go-to solution for vehicles that have been lowered, lifted, or have suspension components that have shifted over time. Any time the ride height changes, the alignment will also change because the suspension geometry is set according to the factory ride height — meaning shims may be needed to bring things back into spec after even modest modifications.

What to Look for When Shopping Camber Shims

• Thickness and degree of correction: Shims come in a range of thicknesses (such as .016 in., .031 in., .063 in., .125 in., and .188 in.) corresponding to specific degree corrections. Match the shim to the amount of correction your alignment measurement calls for.
• Material and durability: Quality shims are manufactured from non-corrosive or high-grade steel materials to resist rust and maintain dimensional accuracy over time.
• Front vs. rear application: Some shims are designed specifically for front suspension; others target rear axle geometry. Confirm the application before ordering.
• Kit vs. individual: Kits that include multiple thicknesses allow a technician to dial in both camber and toe in a single service, while individual shims are ideal for targeted corrections.
• Vehicle fitment: Always verify that the shim is engineered for your specific make and model, as mounting geometry varies widely across platforms.

Top Brands in Alignment Camber Shims

SPC Performance is the dominant name in the alignment shim category, offering an extensive lineup of camber shims available in multiple styles and thicknesses — including their Duo-Fit camber/caster shims with tapered slots — designed to be installed without any modifications to the vehicle. Their vehicle-specific shims cover a broad range of domestic and import applications, from passenger cars to trucks and 4WD platforms.

Mevotech brings the same engineering-first philosophy to their alignment shim products that has made them a trusted name in chassis components since 1982. With patented chassis technologies and rigorous quality control, Mevotech alignment camber shims are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications, making them a solid choice for professional technicians and demanding DIYers alike.