Toe Out on Turns

Also referred to as "Turning Angle" or "Toe differential angle". Toe out on turns results from the different angles (arcs) taken by the front wheels when driving through a corner. When turning a corner, the outside wheel must travel a greater distance than the inside wheel. The additional toe angle is determined by the steering arm design.

Deviations from the specified value could indicate possible bent steering linkage. A typical complaint that would be associated with this condition would be excessive tire squeal or "scrubbing" on turns. When looking for this specification in TIS, look for the "Track Differential Angle" specification.

Fig 1: Identifying Toe-In Angle And Turning Angle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Identifying Toe-Out Angle

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.