These simple, yet critical, suspension components are a part of every vehicle's steering system.
Capital One | Austin Lott
Sometimes the simplest automotive components are also the most important. Tie rods are critical when it comes to steering a car or truck. Without them in place, there would be no way to change direction while driving. Here's a look at this basic part, including how to recognize tie rod problems and how to maintain your vehicle's suspension to avoid issues down the road.
Tie rods are a crucial part of any automobile's steering system. These simple metal rods serve to transmit the force you generate through the steering wheel to the wheels themselves, connecting from the steering rack to the steering knuckle on the moveable suspension components attached to the wheel. The ball-in-socket connection of a tie rod allows it to move up and down with a wheel while driving yet still transmit the necessary energy required to change direction.
Tie rods are divided into outer and inner sections and serve as the pivot point between the steering system and the wheels doing the turning. Often, tie rods are adjustable and can be lengthened and shortened to align an automobile's wheels.
Tie rods can wear out from regular use or from exposure to extreme conditions such as high heat or road salt. Impact damage from a pothole or a rock in the road can also bend or otherwise deform tie rods. Similar damage can occur with vehicles that are frequently overloaded or face significant stress in their suspension systems.
The clearest sign of tie rod damage is a clanking or metallic knock that occurs when you turn the steering wheel or occasionally when driving over a rough road. Other indications include a vibration in the front end that can be felt through the steering wheel that seems loose, or tires that are wearing unevenly, as the tie rod is no longer keeping the wheel aligned. These are all signs that a tie rod may need to be replaced.
It's entirely possible that the tie rods on your vehicle will last your entire ownership period without requiring replacement, especially if you are able to avoid curbs, potholes, and other serious bumps while driving. The only way to be sure is to have their condition examined by a qualified technician.
While there is no specific maintenance for tie rods once they are installed, a regular wheel alignment is the best defense against potential damage. Tie rods are adjusted as part of the alignment process, which means they will be inspected by the technician.
One of the most essential features for safety and control in any vehicle is the steering wheel and every part attached to it. That includes the tie rods. As those tie rods wear down and need to be replaced, it can affect your steering and the overall control of your vehicle. Let’s look at what tie rods are, what they do, how they work, and how you can spot issues before you’re left stranded.
Your car’s tie rods, located at each front wheel, link the steering gear with the steering knuckle. All steering systems rely on the tie rod end for proper steering function. That includes rack and pinion steering systems as well as recirculating ball types.
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Tie rods, including the inner tie rod under the rubber boot as well as the outer tie rod, are a critical component of your steering system. They connect the steering gear to the steering knuckle. Their health is directly tied to your vehicle’s alignment, tire wear, and overall handling. That’s why it’s so important to get yours visually inspected with every tire rotation or at least a couple of times a year. This can help catch issues early before other damage occurs.
Identifying failing tie rods early can help prevent steering failure and expensive repairs. If you notice any of these symptoms while driving, book an appointment at your local Les Schwab.
A loose steering wheel, often described as "play," can signal worn tie rods. If your steering wheel feels loose, get to Les Schwab for a free visual inspection of your tie rod ends.
Uneven wear on your front wheels could mean your vehicle is out of alignment. It could also be a loose tie rod.
Quick, sharp sounds from the front wheels while turning could be an indication of failing tie rod ends.
Tie rods that are too worn can cause your alignment to go out quickly — even weeks after a full alignment.
A loose tie rod can cause a steering wheel to shake or vibrate.
Les Schwab offers free visual inspections to evaluate your steering and suspension components. That includes your tie rods. Our trained professionals can take a look and determine if your vehicle requires an alignment or the replacement of worn tie rods or other parts.
Our trained professionals do more than come running when you pull into our parking lot. Right away, they’ll ask all the right questions to fully understand what you need and how they can help.
When it comes to tie rods, we look for:
Damaged tie rods can affect your overall steering. Worse yet, a broken tie rod can cause one of your wheels to completely turn to the right or left. Usually, this results in your vehicle quickly slowing to a permanent stop. Les Schwab checks tie rods for rust, deterioration, as well as loose parts that can impact your overall control and safety. Book an appointment today and we’ll start with your alignment as well as tire wear to pinpoint possible tie rod issues.