How to Replace an Outer Tie Rod End
By Marc Howe on Jan 25, 2011 with Comments 0
Below guide will teach you How to Replace an Outer Tie Rod End. Please follow the instructions carefully.
Things You’ll Need:
- Combination Wrench Set
- Mallet Hammer
- Socket and Ratchet Set
- Channellock Pliers
- Flat Head Screwdriver
- Tie Rod Turning Tool
- 3/8 in. Drive Ratchet
- Tie Rod End
Estimated Costs:
- DIY Costs: Est. $143.91 parts only
- Shop Costs: Est. $248.86 parts and labor

Image may not be specific to your car
Instructions:
- Park the vehicle on a flat surface and set it on parking brake.
- Lift the front of the vehicle up using the floor jack.
- Floor jack is not secure enough, so secure the vehicle over jack stands to ensure safety while repair work. Also chock the rear wheels.
- Ask the assistant to spin the steering wheel from left to right direct so that you can examine the tie rod end.
- Don’t forget to inspect the tie rod end boot for damages.
- Take the front wheels away by unfastening the lug nuts. Use appropriate socket wrench or a ratchet to remove the nuts.
- For future reference, mark the position of the threaded area of tie rod into the adjusting sleeve. Unsecure the nuts and bolts on adjusting sleeve.
- Take away the cotter pin from tie rod end castle nut. Unsecure the tie rod end castle nut.
- Detach the tie rod end from the steering knuckle. You might need a ball joint puller tool to carry out this task.
- Remove the tie rod end from adjusting sleeve.
- Take a new tie rod end and insert it in the adjusting sleeve. Use the reference mark and thread the tie rod end accordingly.
- Put the tie rod end into the steering knuckle.
- Tighten the tie rod end castle nut and recover it with cotter pin.
- Secure the nuts and bolts on the adjusting sleeves.
- Put the front wheels back onto the vehicle and secure them with lug nuts.
- If you have wheel alignment problem, you can take help from any professional technician.
Filed Under: Guides/DIY