Tie Rods 101: Everything You Need To Know
These simple, yet critical, suspension components are a part of every vehicle's steering system.
Capital One | Austin Lott
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Sometimes the simplest automotive components are also the most important. Tie rods are critical when it comes to steering a car or truck. Without them in place, there would be no way to change direction while driving. Here's a look at this basic part, including how to recognize tie rod problems and how to maintain your vehicle's suspension to avoid issues down the road.
What Is a Tie Rod?
Tie rods are a crucial part of any automobile's steering system. These simple metal rods serve to transmit the force you generate through the steering wheel to the wheels themselves, connecting from the steering rack to the steering knuckle on the moveable suspension components attached to the wheel. The ball-in-socket connection of a tie rod allows it to move up and down with a wheel while driving yet still transmit the necessary energy required to change direction.
Tie rods are divided into outer and inner sections and serve as the pivot point between the steering system and the wheels doing the turning. Often, tie rods are adjustable and can be lengthened and shortened to align an automobile's wheels.
Signs of a Damaged Tie Rod
Tie rods can wear out from regular use or from exposure to extreme conditions such as high heat or road salt. Impact damage from a pothole or a rock in the road can also bend or otherwise deform tie rods. Similar damage can occur with vehicles that are frequently overloaded or face significant stress in their suspension systems.
The clearest sign of tie rod damage is a clanking or metallic knock that occurs when you turn the steering wheel or occasionally when driving over a rough road. Other indications include a vibration in the front end that can be felt through the steering wheel that seems loose, or tires that are wearing unevenly, as the tie rod is no longer keeping the wheel aligned. These are all signs that a tie rod may need to be replaced.
How To Maintain Your Vehicle's Tie Rods
It's entirely possible that the tie rods on your vehicle will last your entire ownership period without requiring replacement, especially if you are able to avoid curbs, potholes, and other serious bumps while driving. The only way to be sure is to have their condition examined by a qualified technician.
While there is no specific maintenance for tie rods once they are installed, a regular wheel alignment is the best defense against potential damage. Tie rods are adjusted as part of the alignment process, which means they will be inspected by the technician.
