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.
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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.
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:
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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.
Although there are various types of steering systems, such as rack and pinion steering and recirculating ball steering, they all share a common component that enables them to steer properly - the tie rod end. Engaged every time you turn your steering wheel, tie rods are found on each front wheel and connect the steering gear to the steering knuckle. Simply put, you can’t steer your car without tie rods.
Serving as the pivot point between the steering rack, steering arm and steering wheel, tie rods not only help move your wheels when you steer but they 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.
Since tie rods are used every time you steer your vehicle, they are susceptible to damage and wear. Normal wear and tear can cause a tie rod to break down but driving hazards like poor road conditions, potholes and accidents can also cause tie rod damage or failure.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is imperative that you make an appointment with your technician for proper diagnosis.
Tie rods can last for several years. In fact, you may never have to replace your tie rods. The conditions you drive in play a large role in the lifespan of tie rods.
If a tie rod fails, the effects can range from the mild (like premature tire wear) to the extreme (a total loss of control of your vehicle). A failing tie rod can go from bad to worse in a matter of miles.
Driving with a bad tie rod can have a large impact on the steering and handling of your vehicle. You may find that you steering wanders, leaving you with little control making the vehicle turn in the direction you want. If you suspect that you have a problem with a tie rod, don’t delay in making an appointment with technician for the proper repair.
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The content in this article is for informational purposes only. You should consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have questions relating to any of the topics covered herein. Tenneco will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.
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