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Alignment: Dealer or Elsewhere / Any special nonsense on L663?
I definitely knocked my 110 out of alignment roughhousing on my Moab trip recently. Not surprising given the abuse and rocks.
I’ve had it aligned 2x since new, both at the dealer. Problem is, that’s like $500. Obvious cash grab but ... they do seem to do it properly.
If I just go to a regular tire place / alignment shop -- will they know what to do -- do I need to put it in “tight tolerance” mode with my GapIIDTool like I would have needed to on an old LR3/LR4/RRS? Or does it not matter?
Funnily enough I'm picking up my Defender from having an alignment at my dealer this afternoon. Mine has been out of alignment for months - I had to turn my steering wheel about 5° to the right to go straight.
I had three alignments done at my tire shop and they couldn't get it right. They first didn't use tight tolerance mode. I then showed them how to activate it, but tight tolerance mode didn't help much, because the engine has to remain on while set in tight tolerance mode, and their alignment machine couldn't get an accurate reading because the vibrations from the engine were interfering with the lasers on the machine, but they manages to get it within spec, but it was still off by about 3°. I had to take it to the dealer because my shop just couldn't get it. My dealer charges $229.00 for an alignment, whereas the place I usually go is $130.00.
My dealer called me and said they got it aligned properly. Something about they had to reset the steering wheel? I don't fully remember, but I'll find out and provide an update when I pick up my car after work.
To enable tight tolerance mode you must:
1. Turn the engine on
2. Set the vehicle to normal height if it isn't already
3. Open the driver's door
4. Depress the brake three times
5. Close the driver's door within 10 seconds of the first brake depress
6. You will then hear a chime letting you know the car is in tight tolerance mode.
To deactivate tight tolerance mode, you can either drive over 5 mph or shut off the engine.
Last edited by CincyRovers; Jun 26, 2025 at 10:03 AM.
Any competent alignment shop who has the proper updated software for alignment specs can do the alignment for less than what the dealer charges. I recommend aligning all 4 wheels when you get it done.
@nashvegas Give the gents a call at West Coast Overland, I believe they do have an alignment machine. Or Green Oval not too far from them. I know for sure they have an alignment machine they bought last year.
We have a shop and do our own alignments. The key with any air suspension vehicle is to ensure it doesn't lower when you place it on the alignment rack. I put it in "Service Mode" and leave the rear door open (it won't drop to access height if a door is open). Other than that, anyone with a good alignment machine should be able to knock it out.
Circling back: Got my alignment today from West Coast Overland (highest recommendation btw) and boy am I glad I did it.
It was def out of alignment after my trip to Moab. 10 days on the rocks do a number on alignment.
I think the lesson here: When you go on big offroad trips, in an L663, I think it’s a good idea to have the alignment checked and realigned. This is now the second time I’ve done this. Second time toe was way out on more than one wheel.