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Track Rod End Replacement
Typical Cost: Low
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 2 - 24 hours depending on part availability
What does a track rod end do?
The track rod end is a component of the steering mechanism. It connects the tie rod from the steering rack to the front wheel steering knuckle on each side. It is a flexible ball joint that can be adjusted to alter the cars tracking and align the wheels correctly.
These parts are sometimes referred to as tie rod ends.
How does a track rod end work and what are the components?
The track rod end itself is a simple part. It comprises a cast metal cup, with a threaded shaft, into which a ball and shaft sit in, held in place usually by a circlip and covered by a protective boot.
The metal shaft of the cup section is screwed into the steering tie rod and the shaft of the ball section goes through the steering knuckle and is held in place with a nut.
This ball joint can swivel in all directions as required and it is imperative that it sits firmly in the cup section otherwise the direction of the road wheel will not be held in the required position
Typical symptoms that require a track rod end to be replaced.
The most common reason for a track rod end to be replaced is due to an MOT failure or advisory. Usually, this is because the rubber protective boot is no longer preventing the ingress of water and dirt from the road.
However, there are other instances where wear in the part can cause the following symptoms that you may notice;
- Vibration through the steering wheel
- Knocking over bumps and whilst changing direction
- Uneven and premature tyre wear
- Imprecise steering.
What happens during a track rod end replacement?
Changing track rod ends is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.
Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.
The mechanic will;
- Raise the front of the vehicle and remove the road wheel
- Check the component and the tie rod for movement
- Remove the faulty track rod end*
- Fit a new track rod end
- Tighten up the components as required
- Refit the road wheel and lower the car *As this is a component that is open to the elements and frequently covered in road debris and water, it is not uncommon for the track rod end to be seized in position. There are cases where some heat is required in order to undo the retaining nuts and also for a ball joint splitter to be used to prise the part out of the steering knuckle.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your track rod end(s) to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the track rod end(s)
- Coming to you
- Fitting of the parts
- Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
What the quote does not cover.
After any repair work on suspension and steering, the wheel alignment should be checked and adjusted accordingly. This is most important after a track rod end replacement as it is the main component used to adjust the tracking. Therefore, whilst a track rod end can be changed by a mobile technician, you will then need to take the vehicle as soon as possible to a tyre centre to have the wheels aligned.
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Track rod end replacement (driver side)
Track rod end replacement (passenger side)
How much does it cost to have a track rod end replaced?
The cost of a track rod end replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends.
Find out what you could save by visiting ClickMechanic
https://www.clickmechanic.com/jobs/track-rod-end-replacement
FAQ’s
Can you replace just the rubber boot on a track rod end.
Whilst it is physically possible, in practical terms it isn’t worth it. In order to fit a new boot, the work to remove the track rod end from the steering knuckle is still required. In doing this, a ball joint splitter will probably have to be used and this can cause damage to the part.
Also, if the boot has split, road dirt and water will have already entered into the component, so it will have already caused wear within the ball and cup.
As the parts are relatively inexpensive, it simply isn’t worth putting a new boot on an old track road end, so they are replaced.
Do I need to get my wheels aligned (tracking) after the replacement of the track rod end.
As with any work on the suspension it is best practice to have the alignment checked and adjusted upon completion. This is especially true with track rod ends as they are the parts that are used to actually align the front, steering, wheels.
Whilst the replacement of the track rod end can be done by a mobile technician, they will be unable to adjust the alignment as it requires specific calibrated alignment tools that are used by tyre centres, although some garages do also have the equipment.
Therefore, after the work, you need to go and get the alignment checked as soon as possible.
I have been told that track rod ends can be hard to replace?
You have been told correctly! The track rod ends are exposed to road dirt, salt and water and are very frequently difficult to undo. The nuts often seize in place and require the use of heat, penetrating fluid and in some cases a nut splitter or even an angle grinder to remove them.
The mechanic will also need to get the tapered shaft of the ball part out of the steering knuckle and sometimes this can require considerable force and the use of a ball joint splitter, a large hammer and good dose of elbow grease!
Therefore do not be alarmed if you see the mechanic armed with a blow torch, large hammer and hear some loud banging as they remove the old track rod end.
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the track rod doesn’t require changing and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.
Associated repairs
Track rod replacement (passenger side)
Track rod replacement (driver side)
Steering rack replacement