How to know when to replace outer tie rods
- Share
- Issue Time
- Mar 1,2023
How to know when to replace outer tie rods
Tie rod ends connect the steering knuckle of the wheel to the steering rack, and largely responsible for turning the wheels. When you turn the steering wheel, the steering system reacts through the rack and pinion, ultimately telling the outer tie rod ends to push or to pull the wheel to turn. A failed tie rod could lead to loss of control or the wheel breaking completely free of the vehicle, both extremely dangerous situations that can be avoided by proactive maintenance. Symptoms of worn outer tie rods include:
Loose vehicle steering, or play in the steering wheel
Uneven tire wear
Vehicle pulling
Noises like clicks/rattling/chuckling
Loose vehicle steering, or play in the steering wheel
Uneven tire wear
Vehicle pulling
Noises like clicks/rattling/chuckling
A lot of steering and suspension problems can share the same symptoms and noises, so it is always best to do a visual inspection of the part itself. A visual inspection of the tie rod will show if there is wear and tear to the boot cover, that will reduce performance or make the part fail completely.