So, I purchased a Lifetime Alignment package from Firestone and have been going regularly, once every 5000 miles or so. So, I just came back from getting another alignment and they adjusted the toe a little bit but the SAI is out of range and they told me that is something that they can't adjust and could be the result of hitting a really bad pothole, etc. Basically saying, not our fault and nothing we can do to help you on that. My questions are:

1. What can cause this to happen?
2. Can having the SAI out of range wear out anything prematurely or affect anything in a negative way?
3. Where can I go to go about fixing this?
4. Would this be something that I can take to the dealership and have it covered under warranty since I bought my car brand new in 2009?

Appreciate any input you guys have.

 

I've asked Mr. Wizard and he basically said you got a boo boo. What they told you is true, I'd take it to the dealer, if it's under warrenty they'll tell you, there's a pretty good chance it's damage though and probably won't be and you'll need a replacment to fix and you will want to fix this. Car will probably pull to one side or pull on braking. SAI is know as the hidden damage finder in your suspension.

 

It means that the angle of you front strut compared to your wheel is not equal on both sides.

So the measured camber at the wheels are correct, but the right strut is more cambered in compared to the left.
Red is correct, something is bent.

 

Just out of curiosity, do you have aftermarket wheels , or spacers??
A mismatched wheel (offset) or spacer, can change the SAI/ Scrub angle.

 

Nope, completely 100% stock.

 

As caster is dead on, one would think the control arms are fine.

SAI out of spec would then lead to a bent steering knuckle.

BUT :
Out of spec SAI on a car that has no camber adjustment,
and the camber is in spec, I would think both the steering knuckle, and
one of the control arms are bent. (Its like a Double negative)

You will see when you replace the knuckle, the SAI will return to spec, but the camber will go out of spec. That will indicate one of the control arms is also bent.

I personally would start with a steering knuckle.

 

I'm guessing this is going to cost me a pretty penny to fix, no matter where I take it...

What could cause damage like this to occur? This vehicle has never been involved in an accident nor have I ever run over a severe enough pothole (nothing that really jolted me out of my seat).

I'm hoping I can get this covered under warranty seeing as how I only bought the vehicle 14 months ago but I'm thinking it probably won't and will be blamed on wear and tear.