How much does a tie rod cost?

Most tie rods will cost between $40 and $120 with inner tie rods more expensive than outers. Some cars have tie rods where inner and outer tie rods are sold together as an assembly. Labor to replace tie rods will run between $45 and $85 depending if the inner or outer tie rod is changed.

How much does it cost to change a tie rod?

On average, the cost to replace a tie rod end ranges from $100 to $400 depending on vehicle, quality of parts used, and how hard it is to get to the tie rod end. What is this? For parts cost, a tie rod end can cost anywhere from $20 to $100, no matter if its the inner or outer tie rod.

Can I drive with a damaged tie rod?

You can typically continue to drive your vehicle on a worn tie rod, but if it fails completely, you'll lose steering control and will likely need a tow to get you back home or to our service center for a repair.

Is a broken tie rod expensive to fix?

The average cost for tie rod replacement is between $152 and $215. Labor costs are estimated between $49 and $62 while parts are priced between $104 and $153. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

How long does it take to fix a tie rod?

The price of tie rods, parts and labor can vary from vehicle to vehicle. The average car can probably get a tie rod replaced in about an hour labor plus about $80 for the part, so about $170. Add an alignment and the total price may be closer to $260.

How to Tell if Your Tie Rod is Bad

What does a broken tie rod sound like?

A knocking or clunking sound from the front of the vehicle when turning at low speeds can be a symptom of bad tie rods. As they become loose, tie rods can rattle around at the joints and links, causing the new noises you're hearing.

What are the signs of a tie rod going bad?

Can you replace tie rods yourself?

If an inspection reveals a worn tie rod end, you can replace it yourself. AutoZone has everything you need to do the job right.

Can I replace just one tie rod end?

There is a test protocol in the factory service manual that is relied on to determine if a tie rod end is "worn out". Per the protocol, if it turns out that only 1 tie rod end is worn out, then only that one need be replaced and the others can be left alone.

How many tie rods are on a car?

Cars will typically have two tie rod ends on each side: one inner tie rod end and one outer tie rod end — four total with a set of two per side. Tie rod ends are usually permanently greased but some may have Zerk fittings for re-greasing, including aftermarket ones.

Can bad tie rods cause wobble?

Worn rod ends and bent tie rods can cause the telltale signs of death wobble: steering wheel shake, chassis vibration, and wandering. A good tie rod will have adequate rotational movement at the joint but will not have any up-and-down or side-to-side play.

Is tie rod part of suspension?

Both ball joints and tie rod ends are each a part of the front suspension and steering system of your car and are located between the front wheels.

How much does it cost to replace ball joints and tie rods?

In general, ball joints are inexpensive with a range between $20 to $80 each. Labor will vary greatly by model. Some vehicles cost as low as $60 to $80. Yet others, especially four-wheel drive trucks, can range from $160 to $200 per ball joint.

What does a tie rod do?

In many vehicles, tie rods connect your steering gear to the steering knuckle. Tie rods are an integral part of your vehicle's steering system that if worn can cause tire wear and handling problems.

How often do tie rods need to be replaced?

Tie rod ends are used every time you use your steering wheel, so they can go bad over time due to wear and tear. In some vehicles, they can last for many years, while in other vehicles they may not have to be replaced at all.

How long can bad tie rods last?

Tie rods can last for years and years and some car owners may never have to replace them at all, but their longevity can be affected by certain driving conditions. Driving obstacles like potholes, poor road conditions or even minor accidents can cause tie rods to work incorrectly.

How much does it cost to replace inner and outer tie rods?

Most tie rods will cost between $40 and $120 with inner tie rods more expensive than outers. Some cars have tie rods where inner and outer tie rods are sold together as an assembly. Labor to replace tie rods will run between $45 and $85 depending if the inner or outer tie rod is changed.

Are tie rods and steering arms the same?

A tie rod is a part of the steering system. Some large SUVs, pickup trucks and older cars have a steering system with a recirculating ball mechanism. Modern cars come with rack-and-pinion steering. Tie rods in both systems have the same function: they connect the steering rack or linkage to the steering knuckles.

Is tie rod same as control arm?

Tie Rod Vs. Control Arm. A tie rod is a steering component that connects your vehicle's rack and pinion to the vehicle's front wheel via a steering knuckle. In contrast, a control arm connects the vehicle's frame to the vehicle's suspension.

Is tie rod end and rack end the same?

Tie rod end is located near the wheels, and the position is called outer tie rod end. Rack end that is close to inside is called inner tie rod end. The main function of tie rod end is to push and pull tires, directly affecting stability of control, safety, and tire use life.

Why does my car shake at 25 mph?

A bent rim can cause the front end to shake and smooth out as the speed increases. If the tires are good and have no issues, then the suspension may be loose cause the front end to move around on the bumps from the road way.

Why is my car shaking when I drive?

Vibration is usually caused by an out of balance or defective tire, a bent wheel or a worn driveline U-joint. You may find that the car shakes the car in an up and down motion. You may feel vibration through the seat, the steering wheel or even in the brake pedal.