What happens to the ball joint on a tie rod?
Both ends have a well-lubricated ball joint attached. The outer ones have rubber around them to protect them, but over time the lubrication can leak out, and the rubber can perish. When that happens, you must act fast, or you’ll lose steering ability entirely.
What makes up the end of a tie rod?
A tie rod is made of two components: the inner and outer tie rod ends. Both tie rod ends have ball joints. The inner tie rod end is greased and protected by the steering rack boot. The outer tie rod end is also filled with grease, but it’s protected by a small rubber or plastic boot.
When do you need to replace a tie rod?
When it wear out or fails, you’ll notice a few warning signs that should be inspected by a certified mechanic and replaced if needed. As the name implies, the tie rod end is attached at the tip of the tie rod and connects the wheels of the vehicle with the steering and suspension components that permit the vehicle to steer.
Why do tie rods attach to wheel housing?
Whether you have a truck, SUV, or commuter car, they all have tie rod ends that attach to the wheel housing and ensure your vehicle has a smooth and efficient ride every day. However, this component is subject to extreme wear and tear due to the fact that it’s used continually as the vehicle is in motion.
Is a tie rod the same as a ball joint?
Tie rods are generally made up of two components. An inner tie-rod, and an outer tie-rod. The inner tie-rod is an in-line ball joint, the outer has another ball joint, but it is a right-angle ball joint. The threads that connect the inner tie rod to the outer are how the toe alignment is adjusted.
What are the symptoms of a bad inner tie rod?
The symptoms that usually indicate worn inner tie rod sockets are a “loose” feeling in the steering wheel, steering wander and/or toe wear on the front tires. Badly corroded inner tie rod sockets will sometimes bind, causing poor steering return and/or hard steering.
How do you replace a tie rod?
Step 1: Park the car on a flat surface and loosen the lug nuts. Step 2: Raise the vehicle. Step 3: Remove the lug nuts and the tire. Step 4: Turn the steering wheel to the appropriate direction. Step 5: Prepare to remove the tie rod end. Step 6: Remove the cotter pin from the tie rod end. Step 7: Remove the old tie rod end.
How do you check tie rods?
The tie rod ends are the easiest to check. Generally, if there is movement in the outer tie rod end, you will see it moving near the ball area where is sits down into the knuckle of the control arm.