Are tie rods expensive to replace?

Tie rods are not usually extremely expensive to replace. For most cars, a single-side replacement runs a few hundred dollars, and replacing both sides or dealing with more complex steering systems can push the total toward several hundred to around a thousand dollars, especially when an alignment is included.

Understanding why costs vary helps you budget and decide whether to DIY or hire a shop. Tie rods are a critical part of the steering system, linking the steering rack to the wheels. Worn tie rods can cause vague steering, uneven tire wear, and, in worst cases, loss of steering control. Costs depend on vehicle design, part quality, labor rates, and whether an alignment is needed after the repair. The following sections breakdown typical part prices and the labor/appointment costs you’re likely to encounter.

Part costs and what you buy

What you pay for is driven by which pieces you replace. Parts come in outer tie rod ends, inner tie rods, or complete assemblies, and the exact price varies by vehicle make and whether you use OEM or aftermarket parts.

• Outer tie rod end (per side): commonly $20–$120 for aftermarket parts; price varies by brand and vehicle complexity.


• Inner tie rod (per side): commonly $20–$150 for aftermarket parts; often sold as part of a complete kit.


• Complete tie-rod kit (outer + inner, sometimes with sleeves or boots): typically $50–$250, depending on inclusion of hardware and brand.


• OEM vs aftermarket: OEM parts tend to be pricier but are designed for your exact model; aftermarket options can save money while delivering similar performance.

Note: Some vehicles use a single integrated unit (integrated tie-rod assembly) or require replacement of the inner rod along with the outer. The exact part mix affects the price and the work required.

Labor, alignment, and total costs

Labor time and the need for a wheel alignment are the main cost drivers after you select parts. Here are typical ranges you might see in a standard auto shop in the United States.

• Labor time: Replacing one side usually takes 1–2 hours; replacing both sides can take 2–4 hours, depending on the car. At typical shop rates of about $80–$150 per hour, labor can run roughly $150–$500 for one side and $300–$1,000 for both sides.


• Wheel alignment: A front-end alignment after tie-rod replacement is commonly $75–$150, sometimes included in a package if you purchase parts and labor together.


• Additional charges: If the steering rack is worn or other suspension components need replacement, price can rise significantly.

Overall, the final bill depends on your car’s design, the parts chosen, and whether you replace one side or both, plus whether an alignment is included in the service.

How to decide and tips

Seek multiple quotes and verify whether alignment is included. If you DIY, ensure you have the right tools and a proper alignment afterwards. Because tie-rod failure can affect steering safety, address symptoms promptly.

Summary

For most drivers, tie-rod replacement sits in the mid-range of automotive repairs: affordable parts and reasonable labor, with costs rising for two-sided work, complex vehicles, or when a full steering rack is involved. Expect a few hundred dollars for a single-side job and closer to the high end for both sides or more involved repairs, especially when an alignment is performed. Always get a written estimate that itemizes parts, labor, and alignment.

Is it worth replacing tie rods?

Tie rods are on each front wheel, connecting every end of the steering rack to the steering knuckle. They make it possible to change direction while driving. If you do not replace your tie rods often, you may encounter serious challenges that can cause auto accidents.

How much is labor to change tie rods?

The labor cost for a tie rod replacement typically ranges from $100 to $400, but this is often a portion of the total job, which also includes parts and a necessary alignment. The total cost will vary based on your vehicle's make and model, the specific parts needed, and the shop's labor rates. After replacing the tie rods, a wheel alignment is almost always required, adding another $50 to $250 to the total expense. 
Breakdown of costs

• Labor: Expect to pay between $100 and $400 in labor, though some sources indicate a total range of $50 to $550 for parts and labor combined. The labor portion is often the most significant part of the bill. 
• Parts: Tie rod parts themselves can range from $25 to $150 or more, depending on the type of tie rod and whether they are OEM or aftermarket parts. 
• Alignment: An alignment is crucial after this repair and is an additional cost, typically ranging from $50 to $250. 

Factors that affect the total cost

• Your vehicle's make and model: Parts and labor times can differ significantly between different cars. For example, a Volkswagen Jetta may have a higher labor cost than a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. 
• Type of tie rod: The cost will vary depending on whether you are replacing an inner, outer, or both types of tie rod. 
• Labor rates: The final price depends on the shop's hourly rate and the amount of time they estimate for the job. 
• Additional parts: Mechanics may suggest replacing other components that are worn, which will increase the total cost. 

Can you drive a car with bad tie rods?

No, you should not drive with a bad tie rod end because it is dangerous and can lead to a complete loss of steering control, causing a crash. Driving with a worn tie rod can also cause loose or unpredictable steering, excessive tire wear, and other suspension damage. 
You can watch this video to learn about the symptoms of a bad tie rod: 58sChrisFixYouTube · Jun 10, 2014
Dangers of driving with a bad tie rod end

• Loss of steering control: A failed or broken tie rod will cause the wheel on that side to turn independently, making the vehicle impossible to steer. This is most likely to happen suddenly and without warning, especially when turning or hitting a bump. 
• Sudden loss of control: If a tie rod breaks, the car will swerve sharply, making a crash imminent. 
• Increased risk of failure: A bad tie rod is a weak point, and the stress of driving can cause it to fail completely. 
• Excessive tire wear: A loose tie rod will cause your tires to wear out unevenly and much faster than normal. 
• Other suspension damage: Continued driving can cause further damage to your steering and suspension system. 

This video explains the symptoms of a bad tie rod: 59sFixITYouTube · Jul 31, 2024
Symptoms of a bad tie rod end

• Loose or "wobbly" steering
• Vibration in the steering wheel
• Clunking, clicking, or knocking noises when turning or going over bumps
• The steering wheel is not centered when driving straight
• Uneven tire wear 

What are the symptoms of bad tie rods?

Symptoms of a bad tie rod include uneven tire wear, loose or shaky steering, and strange noises like clunking or squeaking. Other signs are vibrations in the steering wheel, the vehicle pulling to one side, or a misaligned steering wheel when driving straight.
 
Steering and handling 

• Loose or shaky steering: The steering wheel may feel "rubbery" or have a delay before the wheels respond. 
• Excessive play: You might be able to turn the steering wheel a few inches before the wheels move. 
• Drifting or pulling: The vehicle may drift to one side while driving straight, forcing you to constantly correct the wheel. 
• Vibrations: The steering wheel may shake, especially at certain speeds or when going over bumps. 

Noises

• Clunking or knocking: A clunking sound often occurs when turning, especially at low speeds, caused by a loose ball stud in the tie rod socket. 
• Squeaking: A squealing or creaking sound when turning the steering wheel can indicate a worn-out ball joint within the tie rod. 

Tires and alignment

• Uneven tire wear: Worn tie rods can cause the front tires to wear unevenly because the wheel alignment is compromised. 
• Misaligned wheels: The steering wheel may not return smoothly after a turn, or it may be off-center when driving straight. 

Other signs

• Corrosion or lubricant leaks: The rubber boots that protect the inner tie rod joints can crack, leading to a loss of lubrication and premature failure. 
• Separation: In severe cases, the tie rod can break or separate, which is extremely dangerous and can lead to a complete loss of steering control.