How long does it take to replace a tie rod end? Most mechanics need around 1 hour to complete tie rod end replacements. This includes the time it takes to inspect the tie ends, the car’s steering (including the steering gear), and make a diagnosis.

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my tie rod end replacement and how much do those parts cost?

Here’s what your mechanic needs to replace your car’s broken tie rod end:

New tie rod end: Each tie rod has an inner tie rod end and an outer tie rod end. If only one of these is damaged, you can replace just the one. Keep in mind that an inner tie rod costs more to replace because you need special tools and it’s harder to remove. A new tie rod end can cost anywhere between $40 and $140.

In addition to the replacement part, your mechanic will also use tools including:

Socket set

Wrench set

Cotter pins

Breaker bar

Floor jack and jack stands

Tie rod puller tool

Some popular tie rod end brands include Moog, ACDelco, and Mevotech. You can purchase tie rod ends from local auto part stores such as AutoZone or NAPA Auto Parts, or from online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto. The best tie rod ends for your vehicle will depend on its model, year and other factors.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

You might choose to splurge on OEM parts, which guarantee their quality. There’s just so much riding on your tie rod ends! But if your vehicle isn’t under warranty and your budget is tight, aftermarket replacement parts can make the job affordable.

Keep in mind that if your car is under warranty, installing aftermarket parts risks voiding that coverage.

Where can I buy parts for my tie rod end replacement?

You shouldn’t have trouble shopping for tie rod end replacements at local auto body shops and auto parts stores like NAPA Auto Parts or AutoZone. They can order parts if they don’t have your vehicle’s model number in stock, or you can order them from online retailers such as RockAuto or Amazon.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my car's tie rod end replaced?

A broken tie rod is a problem, but getting the necessary auto repairs doesn’t have to be difficult! If you don’t have a trusted mechanic or dealership service center, let Jerry's

GarageGuard™

help.

Here’s how it works: Download the app to compare fair price estimates from over 2,500 vetted repair shops in the US. Read what’s included in the estimate, check out each shop’s actual hourly labor rate, and read real customer reviews. Then, pick an automotive service that fits your needs and your budget.

Read through a few of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes near you.

153 Reviews

Uncle Ed's Oil Shoppe

49830 Van Dyke Ave, Shelby Township, MI

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

Compare this shop for free with Jerry

115 Reviews

Airpark Auto Clinic

8135 E Butherus Dr Ste 1 Suite 1, Scottsdale, AZ

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$99

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (480) 922-0859

166 Reviews

Meineke Car Care Center # 2316

5615 Broadway Blvd, Garland, TX

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (972) 905-6953

187 Reviews

1DM AUTO

7590 McGinnis Ferry Rd, Duluth, GA

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$65

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (770) 866-5183

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my tie rod ends?

Be prepared to wait a while because the mechanic will need to remove the entire wheel assembly to work on the steering system. Here’s how they’ll do the tie rod end replacement:

Raise the vehicle: The mechanic uses a floor jack and jack stands to lift your car.

Remove the tire and wheel assembly: By removing the lug nuts and tires, the mechanic can access the steering components.

Measure and record the length of the existing tie rod: Some mechanics make note of the tie rod length so it’s easier to install the new tie rod.

Loosen the tie end adjusting lock nut

Separate the tie rod ball stud: The mechanic uses a tie rod end removal tool to remove the stud from the steering knuckle.

Unthread the tie rod from the inner tie rod end

Install the new tie rod ends: The mechanic secures all the fasteners and tightens the lock nut to the recommended torque value (which is where that original tie rod measurement comes in handy).

Inspect the system: Before the mechanic attaches the tie rod ends to the steering rack, they’ll apply a sealer. They may also replace the inner tie rod boot before checking the ball joints.

Keep in mind: Your mechanic will complete the service by doing a front-end alignment. If their repair shop doesn’t offer alignment services, you’ll need to take your vehicle to an alignment shop.

Can you drive a car with a bad tie rod end?

Don’t keep driving if you suspect the tie rod end is bad. If you’re driving when the rod completely fails, the wheel could break away from the steering assembly. Simply put, you’ll lose your ability to steer the car.

What is a tie rod end?

Your car’s steering system is a collection of intricate parts working together—the tie rods connect the steering rack to the steering knuckle at the tie rod end. When everything works as it should, you can steer and turn your car’s wheels.

Most vehicles have a total of four tie rod ends, sporting two on each side: an outer tie rod end and an inner tie rod end. These are adjustable for proper wheel alignment but if the tie ends break, you could lose control of the steering.

What are the symptoms of a bad tie rod end?

You’ll probably realize that something is wrong with your vehicle’s suspension. Here are signs that the tie rods are bad and need to be replaced:

Clunking noise: Pay attention to the sound your car makes when you turn. A clunking or clicking noise is a sign that the tie rod ends are failing.

Difficulty steering: The tie rod ends might be to blame if your steering wheel vibrates or the steering system feels loose.

Vehicle drift: Your car has difficulty tracking straight ahead when you drive. Instead, it pulls or wanders side-to-side.

Uneven tire wear: Excessive wear on the front tires or noticeable differences in the location and depth of the tire wear mean your car’s suspension and handling are off.

Leaking from the rubber boot/dust boot: The tie rod ends are contained in a rubber boot that’s lubricated. If there’s damage, you’ll see leaking from this rubber seal.

Looseness in the tie rod end: When the mechanic inspects the tie rods, they might notice “play” or loose movement when they handle the ball stud portion. Unfortunately, this means the entire tie rod end needs to be replaced.

How often should the tie rod ends be replaced?

You can expect tie rods to last between 70,000 to 100,000 miles depending on your driving conditions. You’ll get more life out of the rods if you regularly maintain your vehicle and drive on smooth surfaces.

Can I replace my tie rod ends myself?

If you’re trying to save money on repair costs, you might consider replacing the ball joints yourself. But unless you’re a mechanic that specializes in wheel assembly and suspension systems, it’s better to leave this replacement to the professionals.

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FAQs

What sounds do bad tie rod ends make?

If it’s time to replace your tie rod ends, you’ll hear clicking or clunking noises from the front of your vehicle—especially when you turn.

What causes the tie rod ends to go bad?

Your car’s tie rods are constantly in use so they wear out over time, especially if you frequently drive on rough terrain. Contaminants like dirt and debris can also work their way into the dust boot that covers the tie rod. These wear down the smooth surface of the tie rod ends.

Finally, driving on rough terrain or consistently hitting potholes could be the final straw that breaks your tie rod end completely.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.