Article C5.4.4

Cylinder centreline alignment

Technical Regulations

Article C5.4.4

FIA Source

Cylinder centreline alignment

Chapter: C5

In Simple Terms

The cylinders in an F1 engine must be perfectly aligned with the crankshaft's center line, with a tolerance of only 0.1 millimeters. This extremely tight tolerance ensures the pistons move smoothly and efficiently through the cylinders without binding or excessive wear.

  • Each cylinder must have its centerline pass through the crank axis within ±0.1mm tolerance
  • This precision requirement prevents piston binding and ensures optimal engine efficiency
  • Even tiny misalignments can cause significant friction losses and mechanical damage
  • Violation is typically discovered during technical inspections of engine components
Official FIA Text

Each cylinder centreline must pass through the crank axis ±0.1mm.

cylinder alignmentcrank axisengine precisiontechnical regulationsf1 engine specifications
2026 Season Regulations