6 Symptoms of a Bad Tie Rod End
You can’t steer your car without tie rods. These rods connect the steering and suspension system to your car’s front wheels. They allow you to steer your car with minimal effort.
Over time, the rods will wear out. Regularly driving on uneven roads will cause them to wear out faster. However, in most cases, they last several years.
How tie rods work
They consist of an inner tie rod and an outer tie rod. These rods connect to the steering system and then to the wheels. When you turn the steering wheel, the bars roll on a grooved rack, which turns the front tires.
Depending on which direction it turns, the bars push or pull the tires. Both ends are fitted with highly lubricated ball joints. The outside is covered in rubber for protection, but over time the lubricant can leak out or the rubber can wear away. If this happens, you need to act fast or you will lose your steering ability completely.
6 Most Common Symptoms of Defective Tie Rod Ends
Want to know how to tell if your tie rod is broken or loose? Let’s take a look at the most common symptoms.
1) Shaky steering
The rod holds all the components in place. If something goes wrong, it will come off. When this happens, the components are no longer held in place.
When driving, your steering will start to wobble noticeably. This gets worse when you turn or accelerate.
2) The steering wheel can move freely
This sounds a little weird, but if it’s happened to you, you’ll know what we mean. If your steering wheel has too much play and moves more easily than normal, have it checked.
3) Front Axle Misaligned
You’ll notice the misalignment because your car will constantly veer to one side. Test to see if this is the problem by driving on a straight road. Release the steering wheel and see what the car does.
If the wheels are aligned correctly, your car should go straight. If it is deviating to one side, your alignment may not be correct and you should have it checked.
4) Strange noises
Shocks at night are pretty funny when you’re in a “haunted house”. However, in your car you need to take these things seriously. Look out for creaking and squealing noises, especially when going around corners.
This is a sure sign that your joints are not properly lubricated and should be addressed quickly. A rattling sound is also a bad sign and could indicate this problem.
5) Unusual tire wear
- If your wheels are properly aligned, you should see even wear on all sides, whether it’s the outer or inner edge of the tire.
- If you have a tie rod problem, the tire will wear more on the edges than in the center.
- If your tires are losing pressure and wearing unevenly, see a mechanic right away. There are many issues that can cause uneven wear. At the very least, you should get your wheels retuned to reduce fuel consumption.
6) Your vehicle is vibrating
Everyone loves a little swaying, rattling, and rolling on the dance floor. But when your car tries to get in on the action, things get worrisome. Driving with broken tie rod ends is extremely dangerous. If one side breaks, you will lose complete control of that side of your car.