How much are tie rods for Honda Civic?

For a Honda Civic, tie rod costs vary by type and brand. Outer tie rod ends typically run about $15–$60 each; inner tie rods $40–$120; complete kits (one side) $60–$250. OEM parts are usually more expensive, and installation adds roughly $100–$400, depending on the shop and the Civic’s year.

Below is a detailed look at what drives those prices, current market ranges, and practical buying and installation considerations.

What determines the cost

Several factors drive the price you’ll see at parts stores and repair shops. Knowing these helps you budget and compare quotes effectively:

• Whether you need an outer tie rod end or an inner tie rod end, or both.


• OEM Honda parts versus aftermarket brands, which can vary widely in price and warranty.


• The Civic’s model year and generation, which can affect fitment and availability.


• Buying a single part versus a complete kit that covers one or both sides.


• Whether a wheel alignment is needed after replacement, adding to labor costs.

Conclusion: Part choice, vehicle year, and whether you replace one or both sides are the main price levers. Get quotes from multiple retailers and factor in potential alignment costs.

Parts price ranges

Here are typical price ranges you’ll encounter for common Civics, reflecting a mix of aftermarket brands and OEM options as of 2024–2025. This should help you budget before you shop.

• Outer tie rod end (each): $15–$60 (aftermarket); $40–$100 (Honda OEM).


• Inner tie rod end (each): $40–$120 (aftermarket); $60–$180 (Honda OEM).


• Tie rod kit (outer + inner, per side): $60–$250 (aftermarket); $120–$300 (Honda OEM equivalent per side).


• Steering rack or full front-end kits: $300–$900 (aftermarket); $700–$1,200+ (OEM-oriented pricing).

Conclusion: The biggest price difference comes from OEM versus aftermarket choices and whether you’re replacing one side or both. Online retailers often show lower prices than local dealers, especially for older Civics.

Labor and total installed cost

Labor costs significantly influence the final bill. Time estimates and shop rates vary by region and year, and alignment after replacement is common.

• Labor time: Replacing an outer tie rod end typically takes about 0.5–1 hour per side; inner tie rods can take 1–2 hours per side; a full kit replacement may require 2–3 hours per side.


• Labor rate: Typical U.S. shop rates run around $75–$150 per hour; total installed costs commonly range from roughly $150–$500 per side, depending on parts and complexity.

Conclusion: All-in costs for a typical two-side tie rod replacement on a Civic often fall in the $300–$1,000 range, with higher-end OEM parts and extended labor increasing the total.

Buying tips and brand considerations

Brand choice affects warranty, fit, and longevity. Here are common options for Civics:

• OEM Honda parts: Highest compatibility and warranty, with a premium price.


• Strong aftermarket brands: MOOG, TRW, Dorman, and similar brands offer reliable options with good warranties and broad coverage.


• Other reputable brands: Beck/Arnley, Bosch, SKF, and similar suppliers provide quality inner/outer tie rods with varying warranties.

Conclusion: If budget is a priority, reputable aftermarket parts usually provide solid performance and value. If you want maximum warranty and guaranteed OEM fit, Honda OEM parts are a safer bet.

What to budget for by region or generation

Prices can vary by country and region. If you’re outside the U.S. or shopping in areas with different labor rates, adjust expectations accordingly. Always obtain multiple quotes and consider whether you’ll need a wheel alignment after installation.

Conclusion: Use local quotes as your baseline. Expect higher prices for OEM parts or newer Civic generations and lower prices for aftermarket options or older generations.

Summary

Across Honda Civics, tie rod pricing ranges widely based on part type and brand. Outer ends typically cost $15–$60 each, inner ends $40–$120, and complete kits $60–$250 per side, with OEM parts generally pricier. Labor adds about $75–$150 per hour, meaning a full two-side replacement can land around $300–$1,000 total, depending on year, part choice, and shop. Shop around, weigh OEM against aftermarket options, and plan for a wheel alignment after replacement to ensure proper steering and tire wear.

Can I drive with bad tie rods?

No, you should not drive with bad tie rods because it is dangerous and can lead to a complete loss of steering control. A failed tie rod can cause your vehicle to suddenly turn, increasing the risk of an accident. While you might be able to drive a short distance with minor issues, it is best to avoid driving and have the vehicle towed to a repair shop as soon as possible.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the signs of a bad tie rod: 58sChrisFixYouTube · Jun 10, 2014
Risks of driving with bad tie rods

• Loss of steering: A tie rod keeps your wheels pointed in the correct direction. If it fails, the wheel on that side can turn unexpectedly, causing you to lose control. 
• Increased accident risk: A sudden loss of steering control can lead to a serious accident involving your vehicle, passengers, and other drivers. 
• Uneven tire wear: Worn tie rods cause misalignment, which can lead to premature and uneven wear on your tires. 
• Damage to other components: Driving with a bad tie rod can cause further damage to your vehicle's suspension and other front-end parts. 

What to do instead of driving

• Get it towed: If you suspect a bad tie rod, have your vehicle towed to an auto repair shop for immediate service. 
• Consider replacement: If one tie rod is bad, the other one is likely not far behind. It is often best to replace them in pairs to ensure a balanced repair and avoid future issues. 

Are tie rods expensive to replace?

No, replacing a single tie rod is generally not considered an expensive repair, often costing between $100 and $400 including parts and labor, though a full replacement of all tie rods can be between $400 and $750. The total cost depends on your vehicle, the specific parts needed, and labor rates, with a wheel alignment being a mandatory and additional cost of about $150-$200 after the replacement.
 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: A single inner or outer tie rod can cost between $40 and $120 for the part itself. 
• Labor: A professional will often take one to three hours to replace the tie rods, which is the most significant part of the cost. 
• Wheel Alignment: A wheel alignment is crucial after the tie rods are replaced and will add an average of $150 to $200 to the final bill. 

Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle Type: The cost of parts and labor can be higher for luxury or specialty vehicles. 
• Part Quality: The price of tie rods can vary depending on whether you choose original equipment (OE) or aftermarket parts. 
• Labor Rates: The shop's labor rate will affect the total cost. 
• Accessibility: The ease with which a mechanic can access the tie rods to replace them can impact the final price. 

How long do Honda tie rods last?

between 50,000 and 100,000 miles
Under normal driving conditions, you can expect your tie rods to last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. However, this lifespan isn't set in stone. It's crucial to stay informed about your vehicle's needs and conduct regular inspections to catch potential issues early.

How much does it cost to replace a tie rod on a Honda Civic?

The cost to replace a Honda Civic tie rod is typically between $200 and $1,200, depending on whether you replace one or both sides, and the type of part (inner vs. outer tie rod). The total cost includes parts, labor, and a required alignment, which can add to the final price. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: Expect to pay approximately $100 to $400 for the parts alone, which include inner and outer tie rods. 
• Labor: Labor costs can vary, but typically run between $100 and $300 or more, depending on the shop's hourly rate. It's common for mechanics to perform an alignment after a tie rod replacement, which can add $100 to $200 to the bill. 
• Total Cost: When both inner and outer tie rods, plus alignment, are replaced, the total cost can range from $400 to $750 or higher, according to Car Talk and Reddit users. 
• DIY: If you are a skilled mechanic and have the right tools, you can replace the tie rods yourself for around $200, but you will still need to factor in the cost of an alignment. 

Factors that affect the final price

• Parts vs. labor: The final price depends on how many parts are replaced and the shop's labor rate. 
• Alignment: A professional alignment is crucial to ensure proper handling and tire wear, and it adds to the total cost. 
• Type of tie rod: Inner and outer tie rods have different replacement processes and costs. It's often recommended to replace them in pairs to ensure balanced performance. 
• Vehicle model: The cost can vary depending on your specific Honda Civic model, such as the 2012 Honda Civic L4-1.8L or the 2007 Honda Civic L4-2.0L. 
• Location: Prices can vary based on your location. For example, alignment in New York City can be more expensive than in other areas.