How to Know When to Replace Tie Rods
Tie rods are important linkages in your car's steering system. When you turn the steering wheel, it manipulates the steering rack, which pushes and pulls on these tie rods. They, in turn, push and pull on the wheels, controlling the vehicle's direction. These important parts can become worn out -- especially if the protective boot that covers them becomes ripped or torn. Find out below what the important signs are that your car needs new tie rods. When you find yourself in need of this service, you'll get the best customer service and the highest quality parts at Capitol Subaru!
3. What Are Tie Rods?
The tie rods are critical components of your car's steering system, mating the wheels to the steering rack so that the wheels can turn safely. They consist of two major parts: the inner tie rod, which attaches to the steering rack, and the outer tie rod or tie rod end, which connects to the steering knuckle on the front wheel. The tie rods are adjustable, so your alignment can be adjusted. At the tie rod end is a movable joint that can swivel as you turn the vehicle.
5. How Long Should My Tie Rods Last?
Tie rods are considered wearable parts, which means they eventually wear out and require replacement. However, they're built to last on modern cars, and you may never need to change the tie rods on your vehicle. What can cause them to degrade more rapidly are rough roads and harsh weather. If your vehicle faces tougher conditions, it's more likely that you'll need to replace the tie rods on your vehicle at some point.
Instead, just have them inspected occasionally by a professional technician at Capitol Subaru! That's why Subaru recommends an inspection of your vehicle's steering and suspension systems by a certified dealership professional every 15,000 miles.
2. What Are Signs That My Tie Rods Have Gone Bad?
If your car's alignment is poor, you may need your tie rods adjusted or simply replaced. Poor alignment can cause rapid tire wear on one edge, poor handling, and a feeling that the car is "pulling" to one side even while the steering wheel is at dead center. You might also hear a squeaking or clunking noise coming from under the vehicle as you drive, especially as you turn or shift into gear. A loose tie rod will have too much play, and will move around inside the joint, creating a clicking or squeaking sound. And if your tie rod failed completely, the wheel would no longer be connected to the steering rack at all! It would then simply be hanging on by the suspension, and the car will become unsafe to drive.
1. What Other Components Can Share These Symptoms?
There are similar joints in the vehicle's suspension system called ball joints. Ball joints connect the vehicle's suspension to the control arms connected to the wheels. They're also protected by a rubber boot, but they'll start to go bad as that boot degrades. And that means they can also squeak, strain or click similar to tie rods. And the CV axles are responsible for delivering power from the engine to the wheels, and if CV axle joints become damaged, they can also click and rattle as you drive, especially when turning or going over bumps. Since it can be tough for an ordinary driver to diagnose this problem just by listening, head to Capitol Subaru and have one of our technicians take a closer look under your vehicle to identify the problem and get it fixed right!
How to Know When to Replace Tie Rods
Source: https://www.capitolsubaru.com/service/information/when-to-replace-tie-rods.htm
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