Alignment Angles: Toe
The total toe of an axle is the difference in the distance between the front of the wheels and the rear of the wheels on the same axle.
Toe is measured at the center of the wheels from one wheel rim to the other. When the distance is greater at the rear of the wheels, it is called toe-in. When the distance is greater at the front of the wheels, it is called toe-out.
Rear wheel drive vehicles generally will have a small amount of toe-in at the front wheels. This will allow the wheels to toe out when rolling to achieve a zero running toe.
Toe is measured in Degrees when using BMW specifications. Front toe is adjustable on all BMW vehicles. Rear toe is only adjustable on some models.
Toe has a major influence on vehicle handling, straight line stability and the position of the steering wheel. An incorrect toe setting will have a negative effect on tire wear. A toe angle which is out of specification will cause the tires to wear in a relatively short time.