How many hours does it take to replace tie rods?
Replacing tie rods is a common repair task that ensures your vehicle's steering system remains responsive and safe. As the owner of Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I often get asked how long this process takes. In this article, I'll break down the time required to replace tie rods and what factors can influence the duration of this repair.
What Are Tie Rods and Why Are They Important?
Tie rods are a crucial component of your vehicle's steering system. They connect the steering rack to the steering knuckle, allowing your wheels to turn when you steer. Over time, tie rods can wear out due to regular use, exposure to road debris, or lack of maintenance. Faulty tie rods can lead to poor steering control, uneven tire wear, and even dangerous driving conditions.
How Long Does It Take to Replace Tie Rods?
On average, replacing tie rods typically takes about 1 to 2 hours per side. However, the exact time can vary depending on several factors:
- Vehicle Make and Model: Some vehicles have more accessible tie rod assemblies, while others may require additional steps to reach the components.
- Type of Tie Rods: There are two types of tie rods—inner and outer. Replacing outer tie rods is generally quicker, while inner tie rods may take longer due to their location.
- Condition of the Vehicle: If the tie rods are rusted or seized, it may take extra time to remove them.
- Tools and Equipment: Having the right tools, such as a tie rod puller or specialized wrenches, can significantly speed up the process.
Steps Involved in Replacing Tie Rods
Here’s a general overview of the steps involved in replacing tie rods:
- Lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
- Remove the wheel to access the tie rod assembly.
- Loosen and remove the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
- Unscrew the tie rod from the inner assembly (if replacing the outer tie rod).
- Install the new tie rod and ensure it is properly tightened.
- Reattach the tie rod end to the steering knuckle.
- Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle.
- Perform a wheel alignment to ensure proper steering and tire wear.
Why a Wheel Alignment Is Necessary After Replacing Tie Rods
After replacing tie rods, it’s essential to perform a wheel alignment. This ensures that your wheels are properly aligned, preventing uneven tire wear and maintaining optimal steering performance. Skipping this step can lead to further issues down the road.
Conclusion
Replacing tie rods is a relatively straightforward repair that typically takes 1 to 2 hours per side, depending on the vehicle and other factors. At Kevin's Autos, we pride ourselves on providing efficient and reliable service to get you back on the road safely. If you suspect your tie rods need replacement or have any questions about your vehicle's steering system, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert advice and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to replace a tie rod?
Experienced professionals only take an hour to change a tie rod, but this doesn't include performing vehicle alignment. That's why it will take at least three to four hours overall. If you're replacing your tie rods yourself without alignment included, you'll need 2 to 12 hours, depending on your level of expertise.
Is replacing ball joints a big job?
Ball joint replacement is not straightforward, as they can be very tricky to access and install – especially with age and rust. On some cars, the ball joint is integrated into the control arm. If you're not familiar with the suspension and wheel assembly, it's best to visit a garage for a professional check.
Do you need a front end alignment after replacing ball joints?
There's no denying that it's very important to replace your ball joints when needed. However, it's worth noting that doing that doesn't necessarily mean you need an alignment. The only time you need one after replacing the ball joints is if the previous alignment was performed when ball joints were not in good shape.
Do you need an alignment after replacing tie rods?
If you have rack and pinion-type inner and outer tie rods, you can often remove and replace them without upsetting the vehicle's alignment specs. However, you will need to have an alignment done after replacing the outer tie rods. You should still try to keep the alignment specs in line as much as possible.
Is it OK to drive with a bad tie rod end?
In the worst case scenario when a tie rod completely fails, the wheel will break free of the steering assembly which then causes the vehicle to lose the ability to steer. At the first sign of any wear to the tie rods, steering is already at risk and the vehicle is not safe to drive.
What is the average labor for tie rod replacement?
- Parts: $20 to $200 for tie rods, depending on the type and brand.
- Labor: $50 to $150 per hour, with the total labor time typically ranging from 1 to 2 hours.
Do I need an alignment after replacing tie rods?
If you have rack and pinion-type inner and outer tie rods, you can often remove and replace them without upsetting the vehicle's alignment specs. However, you will need to have an alignment done after replacing the outer tie rods. You should still try to keep the alignment specs in line as much as possible.
Is it hard to replace tie rods?
Tie rods can be extremely simple to replace, but that's only if you know what you're doing for every other step, including setting them back as closely as you can so it can be driven to be aligned.
How many hours does it take to replace a ball joint?
Most ball joint jobs are going to run three to five hours of work per side, leading to a cost of $350 to $650 in labor costs alone, plus parts. Overall, for a DIY replacement, you can expect the parts to be somewhere in the neighborhood of $100 each for most vehicles.
Can I drive with bad tie rods?
At the first sign of any wear to the tie rods, steering is already at risk and the vehicle is not safe to drive. A worn out/faulty tie rod should be replaced immediately.
