Noticing loose steering or uneven tire wear?
It could mean that your tie rods are worn and need replacement.
Located at each front wheel, these small yet crucial components connect the steering rack to the knuckle, keeping your steering precise and your wheels aligned.
If they fail, it can lead to serious handling issues — and even safety risks.
Keep reading as we break down the tie rod replacement cost and the factors that affect it. We’ll also cover the common signs of wear and why a timely replacement matters.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Tie Rod Replacement Cost?
- Is it Worth Replacing a Broken Tie Rod?
- 7 Warning Signs You Need a Tie Rod Replacement
- How Long Do Tie Rods Last?
- How to Inspect a Bad Tie Rod
- Can You Replace the Tie Rods Yourself?
How Much Does a Tie Rod Replacement Cost?
NOTE: Tie rod replacement usually involves a front wheel alignment to ensure proper steering and prevent tire wear. This service is typically included in the total cost.
Here’s a look at the average cost of replacing tie rods:
A. Range
If you’re replacing the tie rod ends (inner and outer) on just one side, the total cost usually falls between $350 and $650. This includes:
- Parts: $150 to $350
- Front-wheel alignment: $50 to $100
- Labor cost: $150 to $200
Replacing all four tie rod ends (both inner and outer on both sides) is more expensive and can cost between $650 and $1,200, including:
- Parts: $300 to $700
- Front-wheel alignment: $50 to $100
- Labor cost: $300 to $400
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Several factors can influence how much you pay for this service, including:
- Vehicle make and model: Luxury or high-end vehicles often have pricier parts and may take longer to work on, increasing both parts and labor costs.
- The extent of repair: Most cars have two tie rods — one for each front wheel — and each has an inner and outer tie rod end. So, the average cost depends on whether you’re replacing just the inner and outer tie rod end on one side or all four ends on both sides.
- Quality of parts: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are usually more expensive but reliable. Aftermarket parts are cheaper but may not last as long.
- Additional repairs: While replacing the tie rod ends, your mechanic may check other components like the idler arm or steering rack. If these parts are worn, replacing them can add to your auto repair bill. For example, a steering rack and pinion replacement alone can cost anywhere from $710 to $2,500.
Is it Worth Replacing a Broken Tie Rod?
Replacing a worn tie rod isn’t optional; it’s essential for safe driving.
Tie rods help connect the steering system to the front wheels, allowing you to turn the car smoothly and stay in control.
When they wear out, you might notice loose steering, shaky handling, uneven tire wear, or vibrations. If ignored, it could even lead to total steering failure, which is extremely dangerous.
Fixing a tie rod problem promptly helps prevent damage to steering components, suspension, and tires.
7 Warning Signs You Need a Tie Rod Replacement
Here are some symptoms that point to a tie rod problem:
- Vibrations in the steering wheel
- Vehicle shaking while driving
- Clicking sound from the front wheels
- Knocking sounds during low or high-speed turns
- Steering wheel feels loose
- Vehicle pulling to one side due to improper front-end alignment
- Uneven tire wear
How Long Do Tie Rods Last?
Tie rods generally last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, gradually wearing out from regular use since they work every time you steer.
However, aggressive driving habits, like hitting potholes and speed bumps or going over uneven roads at high speeds, can strain the tie rods, causing them to wear out faster.
How to Inspect a Bad Tie Rod
If you suspect your tie rods are failing, call a mechanic to inspect your vehicle.
However, you can also perform a basic check at home by following these steps:
- Lift the car using a jack and securely place it on jack stands.
- Hold one of the front wheels with one hand on the top and the other on the bottom. Ensure your lower hand reaches behind the wheel while your upper hand holds the front top.
- Push with your top hand and pull with your bottom hand to check for movement. If the wheel wobbles, you may have a faulty tie rod.
- You can also check a faulty tie rod by moving it back and forth. If it feels loose or moves too much, it needs replacement.
Can You Replace the Tie Rods Yourself?
No, replacing a worn tie rod isn’t a DIY job.
Tie rods are important parts of your steering system. If they’re not installed correctly, you could lose vehicle control, putting yourself and others at risk.
Since a tie rod replacement usually requires a front-wheel alignment, it’s best to leave the job to a professional mechanic.
Here’s how they’ll install a new tie rod:
- Lift the front portion of the car using a floor jack and remove the wheels. Turn the steering wheel to make the tie rod more accessible.
- Locate the outer tie rod end and remove the cotter pin from the castle nut.
- Loosen and remove the castle nut. Tap the outer tie rod stud with a rubber mallet to free it from the steering knuckle.
- Loosen the jam nut connecting the outer tie rod to the inner tie rod.
- Unscrew the outer tie rod.
- Remove the rubber boot covering the inner tie rod and the steering rack.
- Use an inner tie rod end removal tool to unscrew it from the steering rack.
- Install the new inner tie rod end and tighten it securely.
- Reinstall the rubber boot to protect the joint from dirt and moisture.
- Screw the new outer tie rod end onto the inner tie rod, then tighten the jam nut to secure it in place.
- Insert the new tie rod stud into the steering knuckle, torque the castle nut to spec, and insert the cotter pin.
- Reinstall the wheels, lower the vehicle, and perform a front-wheel alignment.
Don’t Let a Damaged Tie Rod Compromise Your Safety
Tie rod issues shouldn’t be ignored, as they directly affect your vehicle’s handling and safety.
Since swapping an old tie rod with a new one involves precision and proper alignment, it’s best handled by professionals like AutoNation Mobile Service.
We’re a mobile auto repair solution that delivers top-quality car care without the hassle of visiting a repair shop.
What’s more?
We offer upfront pricing, after-hours support, and a 12-month | 12,000-mile repair warranty.
Contact us for a fair price estimate and enjoy smoother, safer drives.