Tie Rod Installation Guide

1 The Symptoms Of Tie Rod Failure

The most vulnerable section of the tie rods is the ball joints which start to show symptoms of failure once they are worn out or damaged. It is important to take action if you notice these signs or you can risk losing control of the vehicle.

Vehicle Out Of Alignment

The tie rods dictate the alignment of the wheels and so a worn-out or damaged tie rod will disrupt the wheel alignment. While an out-of-alignment vehicle is not directly noticeable you will notice other issues like the vehicle tends to pull to one side as you drive or excessive and uneven tire wear. 

Uneven Tire Wear

The most common sign of a vehicle that has lost alignment is uneven or excessive tire wear. The alignment of the wheels determines the contact patch of the tire with the ground. If the alignment is off due to any factor, the tire rests at an unusual angle with the ground surface and so starts to wear unevenly. Looking at the tire, you can notice one side of the tire tread has worn out more than the other. 

Unusual Sounds From Front End

The tie rods consist of ball joints that are prone to failure. These joints can wear out over time or due to an introduction of debris and contaminants, resulting in a clunking noise when operated. This happens due to excessive play in the ball joint creating clunking or squealing noises.  

Unusual Steering Feel

The tie rods connect both wheels to the steering wheels and any play with the tie rod is felt through the steering wheels. Excessive play in the sterling wheels or unresponsive steering feedback can be an indication that the tie rods have failed. This is usually accompanied by a clunking or shaky steering wheel or may be felt as vibrations when driving or turning the wheels. 

Tie Rod Failure

The absolute worst sign of tie rod failure is if the rod breaks during vehicle movement. This can happen if the above signs are ignored for too long. A broken tie rod severs the connection between the steering wheels and the tires which results in complete loss of vehicle control and poses a serious safety concern. Always inspect the steering system and tie rods regularly to avoid such risky situations. 

2 How To Check If The Tie Rods Are Gone Bad?

If you notice any of the above signs then assessing the condition of the tie rods is essential. Luckily, it’s easy to find a tie rod that is past its prime. The first step is to jack up the vehicle safely using appropriate lifting equipment. 

Once the front end of the car is fully jacked up, wiggle each front wheel by placing your hand at 3 and 9 o’clock and check for play in the movement. If the wheel moves excessively then there is likely to be an issue with the tie rods. You may also hear squealing or clunking noise as you move the wheel indicating a worn ball joint

A play warrants further inspection and since you already have the car jacked up, you can remove the wheels to directly inspect the tie rods. Inspect the tie rod end and check the boot for tears or fissures. A torn boot will allow contaminants to seep into the ball joint inducing excess wear of the ball. You may also notice gritty grease inside the ball joint which is a sign that debris has accumulated inside the joint and worn it out. 

To further assess the rods, remove the tie rod end from the knuckle and try to move the ball joint stud. If it remains firm then the tie rod end is fine but if you can move it easily then the joint is bust and requires replacement. Now to test the inner tie rod you need to hold the rod and move it around. The inner tie rod also has a ball joint at the connecting end of the steering rack. This ball joint can get worn and becomes very easy to rotate and handle which indicates signs of wear. Normally, it is hard to move the rod and should not move or should show very little movement, but If it feels loose in the joint, then it needs replacement.

3 How To Replace Inner And Outer Tie Rods?

Unlike other components where you simply replace it with new, tie rod replacement requires a bit of extra attention. This is mainly because tie rods are crucial steering and suspension components that directly influence wheel alignment. If you were to change out the tie rods without precautions, you could severely alter the wheel alignment putting you at risk while driving. 

So to minimize the chances of severely upsetting the alignment, the new tie rod end that is installed must be the same in length as the old one to keep the angles similar to the original spec. When removing the old tie rod end, mark the position of the adjusting sleeve jam nut with a marker. Loosen the nut slightly and remove the tie rod end from the inner tie rod. When removing the tie rod end, count every rotation of the thread until the tie rod is released. This way when you are reinstalling the new one, you can thread it to that count to minimize wheel alignment offset. 

If you are replacing both the inner and outer tie rods, you can insert the tie rod until the marked location. Now compare it to the new inner and outer tie rods and mark the position. This will help you align the new tie rod similar to the original. These are precautionary measures to keep the alignment as close to spec as possible until you can have the wheel alignment done and is in no way a substitute for the actual alignment process. 

Having these key points in mind you can begin to dismantle and install new tie rods. You will need these tools for installing inner and outer tie rods: 

• Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Wrench
• Ratchet
• Socket Set
• Torque Wrench
• Jack Stands
• Floor Jacks
• Gloves
• Breaker Bar
• Rubber Mallet 

Here Are The Steps For Replacing The Tie Rod End

• Safely jack the front of the car up using jack stands and floor jacks. 
• Remove the wheels from the hub and turn the steering wheel to gain more room for working on the tie rods. 
• The tie rod can be easily recognized by the castle nut. Remove the cotter pin within the nut to allow the loosening of the nut. You may have to use a breaker bar to get enough leverage to undo the nut. 
• To remove the tie rod ball joint from the steering knuckle, reinsert the nut backward until it sits flush with the stud. Now tap using a rubber mallet to free it from the knuckle. 
• Once the tie rod is removed, follow the precautions mentioned above. Make sure to count the thread’s rotations as you undo the rod end from the inner tie rod. Also, mark the location of the tie rod adjusting sleeve using a marker. 
• If the inner tie rod is in good shape then you can reinstall the outer tie rod directly. Start by threading the new tie rod end to the noted count and ensure it reaches the marked position. Lock the tie rod in place by tightening the jam nut. 
• Follow the rest of the procedure in reverse order of installation. Make sure to torque the castle nut to specification and insert the cotter pin into the nut. The torque specifications are mentioned in the owner’s manual.

Here Are The Steps For Replacing The Inner Tie Rod

• After removing the outer tie rod, you have clear access to the inner tie rod. First, remove the boot by undoing the clamp bolts or snapping them depending on the type in your car.
• The inner tie rod is secured in place by a ball joint that threads into the steering rack end. The other end of the tie rod rotates freely due to the ball joint. So in order to remove the inner tie rod, you will need to reach a wrench onto the ball joint socket and undo it. This can be quite tricky since there is little room to access the joint and getting a wrench in there can be hard. A special inner tie rod removal tool is used to ease the removal process. You can borrow this tool at your local garage or loan it from a friend. 
• Using the tool you can remove the inner tie rod ball joint which frees the assembly. 
• Now line up the new and old inner tie rods and copy the marking for the outer tie rod. This will help ensure the tie rod length is as close to the factory as possible. 
• Insert the new inner tie rod using the same tool and torque it to specification. Reinstall the boot if it is not torn and is in good condition. If your original clamp is broken you can get a replacement or alternatively use cable ties. Followed by the reinstallation of the tie rod end. 

Car	How to Remove The Tie Rod
Ford F150 (1997-2003)	Use a 27mm or an adjustable wrench to loosen the jam nut and a 21mm socket to loosen the castle nut that secures the outer tie rod.
Ford F150 (2004-2008)	Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the jam nut and a 22mm socket to remove the castle nut that secures the outer tie rod.
Ford F150 (2009 to 2014)	Use a 24mm open-end wrench to loosen the jam nut and a 21mm socket to loosen the castle nut that secures the outer tie rod.
Dodge Ram 1500 (1994 to 2002)	Use an 18mm socket to remove the nut holding the steering stabilizer. Now use a 21mm socket to remove the castle nut on the right outer tie rod end and the same socket to remove the nut on the right-hand connecting rod. Use a 21mm socket to remove the castle nut on the inner tie rod end attached to the pitman arm and the left-hand outer tie rod end.
Dodge Ram 1500 (2006 to 2014)	You will need a 24mm open-end wrench to loosen the jam nut. Use a 21mm socket to loosen the castle nut that holds the outer tie rod end in place.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (1999 to 2006)	Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the jam nut and an 18mm socket to remove the castle nut that secures the outer tie rod.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2007 to 2010)	Use a 24mm wrench to loosen the jam nut. Now you will need a 21mm socket and wrench to loosen the castle nut that holds the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle.
Honda Civic (2003 to 2005)	Use a 21mm wrench to loosen the tie rod adjusting nut or jam nut. Remove the cotter pin and use a 17mm socket to remove the castle nut that secures the outer tie rod to the knuckle.
Honda Civic (2006 to 2011)	Use a 24mm wrench to loosen the tie rod adjusting nut or jam nut. Use a 19mm socket to remove the castle nut that secures the outer tie rod to the knuckle.
Toyota Corolla (1995 to 1999)	Loosen the locking nut or the jam nut using a 21mm open-end wrench and use a 17mm wrench to loosen the tie rod castle nut.
Toyota Corolla (2003 to 2008)	A 19mm wrench is required to loosen the tie rod jam nut. Then use an 18mm socket to remove the castle nut that secures the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle.
Volkswagen Jetta (1999 to 2005)	Take a 22mm wrench to loosen the locking nut. Use a 6mm Allen bit to hold the outer tie rod stud and use a 19mm wrench to open the castle nut.
Volkswagen Jetta (2006 to 2010)	Use a 24mm wrench to loosen the adjusting nut or jam nut. Use an 18mm socket to remove the castle nut that secures the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle.
Hyundai Elantra (2007 to 2010)	Use a 24mm wrench to loosen the tie rod adjusting nut. Now, use a 17mm socket to remove the castle nut that secures the outer tie rod to the spindle. If the castle nut on the tie rod end is tough to reach, you can also use a 14mm socket to remove the two caliper bolts. Remove the brake caliper to gain better access.
Mazda 3 Series (2004 to 2014)	Use a 24mm socket to loosen the adjusting nut. Now take a 14mm socket and wrench to remove the castle nut that holds the outer tie rod end to the steering knuckle.
GMC Sierra (2001 to 2010)	Use a 24mm wrench to loosen the jam nut. Now you will need a 21mm socket and wrench to loosen the castle nut that holds the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle.
Jeep Truck Wrangler (2007 to 2018) Outer Tie Rod	Remove the plastic tabs that hold the engine splash shield to access the tie rods. Now locate the left front outer tie rod that connects to the knuckle on one end and to the tie rod sleeve on the other. This sleeve runs across the front of the vehicle to the other wheel. It has a steering stabilizer mounted to it, which has to be removed. Use an 18 mm socket to undo the bolt that holds the steering stabilizer to the tie rod sleeve. The tie rod sleeve at the other end is connected to the right front tie rod. This tie rod is connected to the knuckle and has to be removed using a 21mm socket and wrench. Once the right tie rod is removed from the knuckle, rotate it to remove it from the sleeve completely. Repeat the process on the left side to remove the left tie rod end. If you are changing the tie rod sleeve, mark the threads on the tie rods to ensure the wheel alignment stays intact. If you are replacing both the outer tie rods, get your wheels aligned after installation is complete.
Jeep Truck Wrangler (2007 to 2018) Inner Tie Rod	Removing the inner tie rod is almost the same for all vehicles. However, if you own a Jeep Truck Wrangler, you will see two nuts and bolts that hold the inner tie rods and the drag link in a sleeve. Use a 15mm socket and wrench to loosen both bolts of the sleeve. Now use a locking plier to undo the sleeve and rotate it until the tie rod and drag link are disconnected. Use a 21mm socket to remove the castle nut that holds the inner tie rod to the pitman’s arm. After replacing the inner tie rod, reattach the sleeve and tighten the bolts using a torque wrench to recommended values.

Insert the CV axle safely into the center of the hub assembly. Once the hub assembly and CV axle are connected, attach the hub assembly and the steering knuckle to the strut tower and fasten the bolts. Next, reconnect the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle and reattach the caliper. It is recommended to replace any old cotter pins, as they may be brittle and unsuitable for reuse.

How Long Does it Take to Replace Tie Rods?

Replacing tie rods is a crucial task that ensures the proper functioning of your vehicle’s steering system. The time it takes to replace tie rods depends on whether you’re doing it yourself or seeking professional help. According to our research, experienced professionals take about 1 hour to change a tie rod, but this doesn’t include performing vehicle alignment. That’s why it will take at least 3 to 4 hours overall with a professional’s help. If you’re replacing your tie rods yourself without alignment included, you’ll need 2 to 12 hours, depending on your level of expertise.

4 FAQs

How to Change Tie Rod End Without Alignment?

Changing a tie rod end without alignment is possible, but it’s important to note that this method only sets the alignment back to where it was before the replacement. Here are some general steps to follow:

1. Remove the wheel and axle assembly from the car.
2. Loosen the tie rod end at the joint and twist it off of the joint.
3. Remove the screws that hold on the tie rod end and pull it off of the joint.
4. Install the new tie rod end.
5. Tighten the end bolt of the tie rod with the aid of an adjustable wrench.
6. Tighten the jam nut.
7. Check your measurements and adjust the tie rod end if necessary.

How do Tie Rods Work?

Tie rods are an essential component of your vehicle’s steering system. They connect the steering gear to the steering knuckle, allowing you to steer your car. Tie rods are found on each front wheel and come in two parts: the inner tie rod and the outer tie rod. The outer tie rod is connected to the spindle, which connects to your front wheel. The inner tie rod is connected to the steering gear.

Tie rods serve as the pivot point between the steering rack, steering arm, and steering wheel. They not only help move your wheels when you steer, but they also make turning possible. While the rack and pinion system and recirculating ball system each operate differently, both systems use a tie rod to connect the steering rack to the steering arm, which is connected to the steering wheel.

Made of high-strength steel, a tie rod is a slender cylindrical structure with two sections. Consisting of an inner tie rod and an outer tie rod end, they work together to give you optimum wheel control. The inner tie rod is made up of an inline ball joint and connects to the steering rack while the outer tie rod connects to the steering knuckle.

How to Adjust Tie Rods for Alignment?

Tie rods are vital components in a car’s steering system. They help to engage the wheels in order to perform proper turning. However, your car’s wheel can bend inward or outward over time due to bad road conditions, excessive load on the car’s wheel bearing and suspension ball joint, etc. Therefore, understanding how to adjust tie rods will help you avert the dangers of misaligned wheels. The process can be pretty easy if you follow the step-by-step process in the following section of this article.

Here is a general guide on how to adjust tie rods for alignment:

1. Get the necessary tools. Firstly, it is important to get the tie rod adjustment tool you need ready before commencing the process. Some of the tools include a piece of rope, a measurement tape, a wrench, a jack, and a pair of jack stands.
2. Jack the car up. Once you’re sure that you have the complete tools needed for this job, proceed to jack the car and hold it up with the pair of jack stands. This will give you so much space to perform the task.
3. Loosen the locking nut. Once the car is up, get underneath the front close to either of the two tires where you intend to start the process. Then, locate and loosen the locking nut on the inner tie rod end with an adjustable wrench to make it easy. After that, do the same on the other wheel, and ensure that both locking nuts can move freely.
4. Set the steering wheel in the center position. Now, get into the car and straighten the steering wheel. Ensure to turn it a couple of times towards the left and right until you get a perfect center position.
5. Set a measurement standard with a rope. Get two pieces of rope and 4 standing objects on which you can tie the ropes. Then, tie the two ends of one of the ropes to two of the objects and set them a little after each tire. Do this on the right and left sides of the vehicle. Then, use a measuring tape to confirm the distance between the wheel and the trailing edges of the tire.
6. Turn the long adjusting sleeve. Now is the time to adjust the wheel properly. So, turn the adjusting sleeve clockwise with the wrench to correct the wheel position to align. Ensure to tighten the locking nut simultaneously as you adjust the sleeve. After a little adjustment, get out from underneath the vehicle and measure the tire position again. If the tire position doesn’t align, go back under the vehicle and turn the adjustment sleeve again until it finally aligns.

How to Test the Inner Tie Rod?

Testing your inner tie rod is an important step in ensuring your vehicle’s steering system is functioning properly. Here’s a general guide on how to test your inner tie rod:

1. Jack up the front of your vehicle and support it with jack stands.
2. Grasp the inner tie rod and move it up and down, checking for any looseness or play.
3. Move the inner tie rod side to side, checking for any looseness or play.
4. Check for any leaks around the inner tie rod boot.

If you notice any looseness or play in the inner tie rod, it may be time to replace it.

How to Remove the Tie Rod End from the Steering Knuckle?

Here are some general steps to remove a tie rod end from the steering knuckle:

1. Remove the wheel and tire assembly.
2. Loosen the jam nut on the tie rod end.
3. Use a tie rod puller or a ball joint separator to separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
4. Remove the cotter pin and castle nut from the tie rod end.
5. Use a wrench to remove the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.

How Long Should Tie Rods Last?

Tie rods can last for several years, and some car owners may never have to replace them at all. However, their longevity can be affected by certain driving conditions such as potholes, poor road conditions, or even minor accidents. The average lifespan of a tie rod depends on several factors such as vehicle make and model, usage habits, maintenance habits, and more. Generally speaking, tie rods can last anywhere from 50,000 miles up to 200,000 miles if they are properly maintained and kept in good condition. If you suspect your tie rods might be bad, there are a few simple checks that mechanics can make to see if there’s any excess movement in the tie rods where there shouldn’t be.

Front Wheel Moves Side to Side When Jacked Up?

When a front wheel moves side to side when jacked up, it can be a sign of a problem with the ball joints. Ball joints play a crucial role in connecting the control arms to the wheel hubs. They serve as a universal pivoting point of movement between the arms and the hub. When a ball joint wears out, there is usually some “play” on the wheel, making that wheel come out of alignment with the other wheel1. If you suspect that your ball joints are worn out, it’s important to have them replaced as soon as possible.

How to Install Tie Rods?

Here are some general steps to install tie rods:

1. Remove the wheel and tire assembly.
2. Loosen the jam nut on the tie rod end.
3. Use a tie rod puller or a ball joint separator to separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
4. Remove the cotter pin and castle nut from the tie rod end.
5. Use a wrench to remove the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
6. Count the number of turns it takes to remove the tie rod end from the inner tie rod.
7. Install the new tie rod end.
8. Screw the new tie rod end onto the inner tie rod the same number of turns as the old one.
9. Tighten the jam nut.
10. Reinstall the cotter pin and castle nut.
11. Reinstall the wheel and tire assembly.

How to Tighten the Inner Tie Rod?

Tightening the inner tie rod is an important step in ensuring your vehicle’s steering system is functioning properly. Here’s a general guide on how to tighten your inner tie rod:

1. Loosen the locking nut on the inner tie rod end with an adjustable wrench.
2. Use a tie rod adjustment tool to turn the tie rod clockwise to tighten it.
3. Tighten the locking nut on the inner tie rod end.

Can you Drive With a Broken Tie Rod?

It is not safe to drive with a broken tie rod. Tie rods are an important component of your vehicle’s steering system that connect the steering rack to the steering knuckle. They help move the wheels when steering and can also rotate the vehicle. If a tie rod breaks, it could cause your tire to flop to one side, making it impossible to steer your car. If you suspect that your tie rod is broken, it’s important to have it replaced as soon as possible.

How to Measure Tie Rod Ends?

Measuring tie rod ends is an important step in ensuring you get the correct replacement tie rod. Here are some general steps to measure tie rod ends:

1. Locate the tie rod end you want to replace.
2. Measure the length of the tie rod end from the center of the ball joint to the end of the threads.
3. Measure the diameter of the tie rod end threads.
4. Count the number of threads on the tie rod end.