What is a tie rod?
The tie rod is a part of the steering mechanism in a vehicle. A tie rod consists of an inner and outer end. The tie rod transmits force from the steering center link or rack gear to the steering knuckle. This will cause the wheel to turn. The outer tie rod end connects with an adjusting sleeve, which allows the length of the tie rod to be adjustable. This adjustment is used to set a vehicle's alignment angle.
What happens when tie rod ends get worn?
Tie rod ends should be regularly inspected with each oil change service, by a qualified technician. They are a wearing part of the steering and suspension system of your vehicle. As tie rod ends wear, they can become loose and can develop excessive slack, or play, which can be felt in the steering and handling of the vehicle. Bad tie rod ends can negatively impact a vehicle's front-end alignment and lead to excessive tire wear and front suspension problems. Tie rod ends are critical to maintaining proper vehicle front suspension alignment.
Signs of a bad tie rod end
The most common signs of bad tie rod ends are: vehicle pulling to one side during operation, uneven tire wear, shaking, vibration, looseness, or a wandering or erratic feel to the steering of the vehicle, and squeaking noises coming from the front end of the vehicle.
If a tie rod end fails completely, a driver will lose the ability to steer and control the vehicle. Regular inspections of the tie rod ends and replacing them when it is either advised or as symptoms start to occur is recommended. It is also recommended to have an alignment performed or at least checked once these parts are replaced.