Is replacing a tie rod easy?

Replacing a tie rod can be easy for some drivers and not for others. In general, outer tie rod ends are a common DIY job, but inner tie rods or cars with cramped engine bays can complicate the process. You’ll also need to account for alignment after the replacement.

This article explains what a tie rod does, the factors that influence difficulty, the tools you’ll need, and how to decide whether to tackle the job yourself or bring the car to a shop. We highlight practical steps, safety considerations, and typical time and cost expectations.

What affects the difficulty of replacing a tie rod

The challenge you’ll face depends on the car and the exact tie rod being replaced. Here are the main variables to consider before you start.

1. Vehicle type and model-year: Some cars use simple outer tie rods; others use internal adjusters or require removing the steering rack.


2. Inner vs outer tie rod: Replacing an outer tie rod end is usually easier than replacing an inner one, which often requires rack removal or specialized tools.


3. Access and space: The amount of room around the tie rod end to work with varies by engine configuration and suspension layout.


4. Corrosion and seized hardware: Rusted nuts, jam nuts, or seized tie rods can complicate the job.


5. Alignment implications: After replacement, toe-in must be rechecked and adjusted; without alignment, tire wear and handling can suffer.


6. Tools and skill level: Having the right tools and experience reduces time and risk; improper torque or misalignment can compromise safety.

These factors can turn a quick weekend project into a longer repair or a job to leave to a professional. If you’re unsure, obtain a few estimates before proceeding.

What you’ll need and what to expect

Below is a practical list of common tools and parts for a typical outer tie rod replacement. Inner tie rods require additional steps and often rack access.

• New tie rod ends (and possibly an inner tie rod) specific to your vehicle


• Jack and jack stands, wheel chocks


• Lug wrench or impact gun


• Wrenches and sockets (often 14mm, 17mm, 19mm; size varies by vehicle)


• Tie rod end puller or separator tool (or a hammer and pry bar as a last resort)


• Inner tie rod tool or adjustable wrench for inner assembly


• Penetrating oil, clean rags, and grease if applicable


• Torque wrench and a method to measure toe (alignment gauge or professional alignment)


• New cotter pins and possibly boot clamps

Having the right tools on hand minimizes surprises and helps you complete the job safely.

Step-by-step overview (high level)

For readers who want a high-level sense of the process, here are the typical steps for an outer tie rod replacement. This overview is not a substitute for a service manual, and you should follow your vehicle’s specific instructions.

1. Safely lift and secure the vehicle on jack stands; remove the wheel on the side to be serviced.


2. Mark the current position of the tie rod and loosen the jam nut if present.


3. Disconnect the outer tie rod end from the steering knuckle; remove any cotter pin and castle nut as applicable.


4. Unscrew the outer tie rod from the inner tie rod (or from the steering rack) to remove the assembly.


5. Install the new tie rod end, reattach to the steering knuckle, and adjust length to approximate the previous toe setting.


6. Reassemble, ensure boots are intact, and tighten to spec; replace cotter pins if used.


7. Take the vehicle for a test drive and schedule a professional alignment as soon as possible to restore proper toe and handling.

Note that inner tie rods may have different procedures, and many vehicles require an alignment after replacement to restore proper steering geometry.

DIY vs. professional: what’s best for you?

Choosing between a DIY replacement and hiring a shop depends on your confidence, tools, and the complexity of your vehicle. If you’re new to car repairs or your model uses an inner tie rod with steering rack work, a professional installation and alignment is often the safer choice.

Summary

Replacing a tie rod is a common, doable project for many DIY enthusiasts, but not uniformly easy. Outer tie rods are typically the simplest, while inner tie rods and cars with tight engine bays add difficulty. A correct repair requires the right tools, careful handling of the steering linkage, and an alignment after installation to ensure safe handling and even tire wear. If in doubt, consult a service manual for your specific vehicle or have a professional perform the job.

Can I drive with a bad tie rod?

No, you should not drive with a bad tie rod because it is a serious safety hazard that can lead to a complete loss of steering control and cause an accident. Driving with a bad tie rod is dangerous for you, your passengers, and other drivers. 
Risks of driving with a bad tie rod

• Loss of steering control: A completely broken tie rod will cause you to lose all steering, and even a failing one can cause you to lose control of the vehicle. 
• Accidents: The instability caused by a bad tie rod can lead to accidents, especially if the component fails completely while you are driving. 
• Uneven tire wear: A bad tie rod can cause your tires to wear unevenly, which further affects your car's handling and can lead to more costly repairs. 
• Vehicle pulling: Your car may pull to one side, and the steering wheel may feel loose or have excessive play. 
• Other damages: Ignoring the problem can lead to more extensive and costly repairs to other steering and suspension components. 

This video demonstrates the symptoms of a bad tie rod: 59sFixITYouTube · Jul 31, 2024
What to do if you have a bad tie rod

• Replace the tie rod immediately: It is crucial to replace the faulty tie rod as soon as possible to restore the safety and performance of your vehicle. 
• Get a professional inspection: A qualified mechanic should inspect the tie rod and replace it if it is damaged. 
• Consider replacing in pairs: It is often recommended to replace tie rods in pairs because if one is failing, the other is likely to fail soon after. 

What is the average cost to replace a tie rod?

The average cost to replace a tie rod is between \$100 and \$400 for a single rod, including parts and labor, though it can range from \$50 to \$750 or more, depending on the vehicle. Replacing both inner and outer tie rods on both sides can cost between \$400 and \$1,000, and a post-replacement alignment is also necessary, adding another \$50 to \$150. 
Cost breakdown and factors

• Parts: Expect to pay between \$25 and \$150 for the tie rod part(s) itself. 
• Labor: This makes up a significant portion of the total cost, typically requiring 2 to 3 hours of work. 
• Complexity: Costs can increase for luxury vehicles, or if the tie rods are difficult to access, say J.D. Power. 
• Alignment: An alignment is crucial after the replacement and can add \$50 to \$150 to the total bill. 
• Pairs: It is recommended to replace tie rods in pairs (e.g., both sides). 

What to expect

• A single tie rod replacement can range from \$100 to \$400, according to Car Talk. 
• A more comprehensive replacement of both inner and outer tie rods on both sides can cost between \$400 and \$1,000. 
• DIY option: Replacing the tie rods yourself can save a significant amount on labor costs, but you will still need to factor in the cost of an alignment afterwards. 

How long does it take to replace tie rods?

Replacing tie rods can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours or more at a professional shop, depending on whether inner and outer tie rods are being replaced and if an alignment is included. DIY replacement can take 2 to 12 hours, largely dependent on experience and the condition of the vehicle. A full replacement must be followed by a wheel alignment to ensure proper steering and prevent uneven tire wear.
 
This video explains how to replace an outer tie rod end: 56sChrisFixYouTube · Jun 10, 2014
Professional shop

• 1 to 2 hours: For just outer tie rod ends, especially if they are not seized or rusted, plus the time for a professional alignment.
• 3 to 4 hours: For replacing both inner and outer tie rods, including the time for a wheel alignment. 

DIY

• 2 to 12 hours: This estimate varies significantly depending on your experience level and whether the old parts are rusted or difficult to remove. 
• Additional time for alignment: A DIY replacement is not complete without a professional wheel alignment afterward. 

Important considerations

• Always get an alignment: Replacing tie rods affects your vehicle's alignment, so a professional alignment is crucial afterward to prevent premature tire wear and ensure safe handling. 
• Check other components: It's a good time to have a mechanic inspect other suspension parts, such as control arm bushings, during the repair. 
• Driving conditions affect lifespan: Tie rods can wear out faster on rough roads, but they generally last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles under normal conditions. 

You can watch this video to learn about the symptoms of a bad tie rod: 25sEasyAutoFixYouTube · Nov 11, 2022

Can I replace a tie rod myself?

Yes, you can replace tie rods yourself if you have some automotive experience and the right tools, but you must also get a professional wheel alignment afterward to ensure your steering is safe and your tires wear evenly. The process involves removing the wheel, disconnecting the old tie rod end, and installing the new one, while also making note of the adjustment count to get the new one close to the old one's position. 
Before you begin

• Safety first: Use a service manual to find the specific instructions for your vehicle and the correct torque specifications. 
• Gather tools: You will likely need basic hand tools like wrenches, a torque wrench, a tie rod end puller, and possibly a breaker bar or an impact wrench. 
• Assess the job: Replacing the outer tie rod end is a common DIY task. Replacing the inner tie rod end is more complex and may require specialized tools, like an inner tie rod removal tool. 

Steps for replacing a tie rod end

• Remove the wheel: Loosen the lug nuts, jack up the car, and remove the wheel. 
• Disconnect the old tie rod end: 
  • Use a wrench to loosen the castle nut (or cotter pin) holding the tie rod end to the steering knuckle. 
  • You may need a tie rod puller or a pickle fork to separate the ball joint from the knuckle. 
  • Loosen the jam nut that secures the tie rod end to the tie rod shaft. Important: Count the number of turns it takes to remove it, as this will help you get the new one close to the correct position. 
• Install the new tie rod end: 
  • Hand-tighten the new tie rod end onto the shaft, using the same number of turns you counted for removal. 
  • Reconnect the tie rod end to the steering knuckle. 
  • Install the new castle nut and tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque, then install a new cotter pin. 
  • Tighten the jam nut to secure the tie rod end. 
• Finish up: Reinstall the wheel and lug nuts, and lower the vehicle. 

This video demonstrates how to replace an outer tie rod end: 44sChrisFixYouTube · Jun 10, 2014
After the replacement

• Get an alignment: A professional wheel alignment is essential after replacing tie rods to ensure the vehicle steers correctly and to prevent uneven tire wear.