Tie rod axle joint: common defects and their signs

1. Elements wear-out.
   • Significant free play of the steering wheel appears.
   • The suspension knocks during cornering.
   • The steering control is troubled.
   • The steering wheel feels stiff and hard to turn.
   • The car is pulled to the sides during straightforward driving.
2. Corrosion and mechanical damages.
   • Inclination from the preset turning radius and movement trajectory occurs.
   • Oily stains appear on car parking place, which is the result of liquid leakage from the hydraulic steering booster.
   • After turning the steering wheel returns to its initial position with an effort.
   • Wobbling of the steering wheel occurs.
   • The drive wheels rotate with an effort.

How to replace tie rod axle joint?

Usually, inspection of tie rod operability should be performed every 50 000 operational kilometers, according to the driving style and conditions of the vehicle operation. The car tie rod axle joint is irreparable. If the defects sings noted above occur, the part needs to be replaced.

It is quite difficult to perform replacement of the car axle joint, so it is recommended to entrust this procedure to professionals. Moreover, re-adjustment of wheels alignment angles, which should be performed only at a service station, will be necessary.