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Tie Rod Replacement
Typical Cost: Low - Medium
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 24 - 48 hours due to part availability
What does a tie rod do?
Your vehicle will have two tie rods on each end of the steering rack. These are simple rods with a universal ball joint at one end that screw into the end of the steering rack at one end and into the track rod end at the other. It basically serves as the rod to move the front wheel in the direction you have requested when moving the steering wheel.
This part is also known as a track rod.
How does a tie rod work and what are the components?
The tie rod itself is usually a length of rod with a threaded end that has a joint at the other end (usually a ball and cup type joint), which is then screwed into the end of the steering rack. This joint is protected from the elements by a rubber boot that is held in place by clasps.
The tie rod will then have the track rod end screwed onto the threaded rod end and secured in place with a locking nut.
Typical symptoms that require a tie rod to be replaced.
The only moving component of the part is the universal ball joint. Like all joints, it can suffer wear and tear over time and become loose. When this occurs you get similar symptoms as to those of any worn ball and cup joint, with vibration and knocking but you may also notice poor and uneven tyre wear.
The rubber boot is also prone to being cut by road debris being thrown into it and also pershing over time and splitting. This is usually picked up at MOT time and may cause a failure or at least an advisory.
What happens during a tie rod replacement?
Changing a tie rod 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 vehicle and remove the road wheel
- Undo the track rod end
- Remove the clips holding the rubber boot in place
- Unscrew the tie rod from the steering rack
- Fit the new tie rod in place
- Tighten everything back up
- Replace the wheel and lower the car to the ground
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your tie rod to be replaced will cover;
- The tie rod
- 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 tie rod replacement as it is one of the main components used to adjust the tracking. Therefore, whilst a tie rod 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 replacement (driver side)
Track rod replacement (passenger side)
How much does it cost to have a track rod replaced?
The cost of a track rod replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends.
FAQ’s
Can just the rubber boot be replaced if it is the only part that is faulty?
Yes, this is possible, providing the joint itself hasn’t suffered any degradation whilst the boot hasn’t been protecting it from the elements.
The mechanic will still need to do most of the work, except for physically unscrewing the part from the steering rack and you will still need to get the wheel alignment checked afterwards.
Do I need to get my wheels aligned (tracking) after the replacement of the tie rod.
As with any work on the suspension or steering, it is best practise to have the alignment checked and adjusted upon completion. This is especially true with tie rods as they are used to actually align the front, steering, wheels.
Whilst the replacement of the tie rod 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 doo have the,
Therefore, after the work, you need to go and get the alignment checked as soon as possible.
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 tie 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 end replacement (driver side)
Track rod end replacement (passenger side)
Steering rack replacement