Damaged tie rod end - symptoms. How to recognize the failure and fix it? How much does it cost to replace this item?

In the steering system, even the smallest element is important for comfortable driving. One of them is the end of the rod. Its main task is to transmit the movements of the steering wheel to the steering knuckle and change the direction of its rolling. Driving accuracy and safety will not be ensured if the ends of the steering element do not work. What signs of wear should alert you? It is worth checking when and how to replace this tip!

Tie Rod End Design - Specifications

The tie rod end looks like a pin rocker. On the one hand, it has a pin that is attached to the steering knuckle and tightened with a nut. On the other hand, it is screwed into the element of the steering system and is countered by a nut superimposed on it. Between these connections there is a joint, i.e., the so-called apple. It provides rotation, suspension movement and reduces vibrations and vibrations during movement. One end of a rod is attached to each wheel. During the movement of the wheel, the tips transmit the deflection of the stick so that the wheels can turn. When do they need to be replaced?

Tie Rod End - Signs of Failure and Wear

While riding, a worn tip usually shows up on the bores. When driving on rough roads, you will feel vibrations on the steering wheel. This heralds the breakage of the apple on the tip and results in insufficient vibration damping. In addition, muffled knocks will be heard inside the car. A very clear indication that the joystick tip is not working is a delayed response to turns. It just means playing on the tip.

The final decision on replacement should be made only after diagnosis. You can do it yourself.

1. Remove the wheel.
2. Hold the tip and move the wheels back and forth. 
3. If this part is worn, you will feel the characteristic play and clicks.

Tie Rod End - Item Price

A tie rod end, such as MOOG, Delphi or TRW, is not too expensive and, depending on the model, costs 50-6 euros/strong>. The original products used for the first assembly will of course be more expensive. The price also depends on the car segment. However, usually two nozzles can be bought for up to 15 euros, why are we talking about a pair?

Tie rod end replacement - once or twice?

Definitely two. Why is that? You must be aware that the quality of the component affects the handling of the vehicle. Normally, the wear of the elements occurs fairly evenly, but even if one of them seems to be working, it is worth replacing both. Of course, when setting the alignment after repair, it will be easier. In addition, the tie rod end after replacement on one side will wear out faster, so it will have to be replaced later. Therefore, it is better to replace both parts at once.

Tie rod end and its replacement step by step

This task is quite easy to complete and you can handle it yourself. 

1. First loosen the wheel bolts and jack up the car. 
2. Then completely unscrew the bolts and remove the wheel. The end of the stick is usually behind the wheel (when facing forward). 
3. To replace it, clean the nut and thread on the rod with a wire brush. Then spray these parts with penetrating liquid.

Tie Rod End Replacement - Next Steps

The next step is twisting. Here, start at the tip of the pin, i.e. focus on the vertically located nut. It is good to tap on it with a hammer to make it easier to disassemble. It should unscrew up to a certain point, after which it will begin to rotate. Support or grasp the bottom of the bit to fully unscrew the nut. The last step is to unscrew the element from the stick. Sometimes you will need to loosen the counter, but not always. However, remember that after such a procedure, you will need to move on to setting up the convergence.

Steering rack replacement - is it necessary?

Sometimes the problem is not in the tip itself, but in the wand, which makes itself felt. In this case, the rod end must also be removed from the steering knuckle. Then get rid of the rubber boots and unscrew the tie rod from the steering gear. If there is a place to put an open-ended wrench, it will be a fairly simple operation. If not, you need to use a hydraulic wrench. The next step is only to insert a new rod into the transmission and install the same or a new rod tip.

How long does it take to replace a tie rod end?

How long does it take to replace a steering rack? For an experienced mechanic, this is a matter of several tens of minutes. Much depends on the condition of the elements and the degree of their corrosion. In addition, the tip of the rod and the rod itself are replaceable on both sides, which increases the operating time. However, it is worth investing in such an exchange to enjoy a comfortable ride.

Tie rod end in a car - how much does it cost to replace?

When changing the stick, it is worth doing it on both sides and together with the ends. How much does a steering rack replacement cost? The cost usually does not exceed 50-7 euros per page. Therefore, a set usually costs 15 euros (plus new tips). However, remember that such a service is not the most difficult and you can save money by doing the work yourself. And do not forget to do alignment after replacement. Even if you have placed new elements in almost identical positions, it is still worth visiting a specialist.

Replacing the stem and its ends is not difficult and it is worth trying to repair it yourself. Thus, you will not only deal with the malfunction and get to know your car from the technical side, but also save some money. Usually you pay the same for the replacement service as for the parts, so the game is worth the candle.