Having a mechanic replace a single tie-rod end could cost as little as $150, although on some vehicles, you\u2019ll pay close to that for the part alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But you\u2019ll usually need to replace tie-rod ends in pairs, and it\u2019s highly recommended that you have a professional alignment done afterward, so the total cost of a tie-rod end replacement will likely range somewhere between $500 and $1,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tie rods in your vehicle connect the steering, suspension and wheels, and are responsible for helping the vehicle turn when you move the steering wheel. The outer tie-rod ends connect the rod to the steering knuckle, and the inner tie-rod ends connect the rod to the steering rack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you notice any of the following, your tie-rod ends may be worn or failing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The main factor affecting the cost of your tie-rod end replacement is parts. Inexpensive aftermarket tie-rod ends can cost as little as $20, but original manufacturer parts for a high-end vehicle can cost over $100. You might also pay more if the parts for your vehicle are hard to source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At an experienced shop, this job will probably take around two hours of labor for most vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most tie rods have two main parts: an inner tie rod and an outer tie rod. Each of these has a left side and a right side. It\u2019s generally recommended that you replace both ends at the same time. Your mechanic may recommend that you replace both the inner and outer tie rods at the same time, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because the inner tie rods are a little more difficult to replace, they\u2019ll cost a little more than the outer tie rods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because your tie rods help hold your vehicle in alignment, it\u2019s a good idea to have a wheel alignment done after you replace the tie-rod ends. This will help prolong the life of your tires and improve your vehicle\u2019s handling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An alignment will add $150-$200 to your total repair cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Having issues with your tie rods can lead to more significant and expensive car trouble if you don\u2019t fix it. And if your tie-rod ends go out while you\u2019re driving, it could cause you to lose control of your vehicle, leading to an accident. If you suspect there\u2019s an issue with your tie-rod ends, you should have the problem taken care of right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Additionally, if you have to get an annual inspection for your vehicle, the inspector may check your tie rods, and you may fail if your tie-rod ends show signs of wear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re fairly comfortable jacking up and working on a vehicle, replacing your tie-rod ends may not be a difficult job. But you need to pay close attention to the position of the old tie-rod ends. The ends can be difficult to remove if they\u2019re rusted or corroded, and you\u2019ll still need to take in your vehicle to have an alignment done, so it\u2019s usually faster and easier to leave this job to a professional mechanic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n