How long do tie rods last?

How long do tie rods last?

Most modern vehicles use a steering system called a rack and pinion, which contains tie rods to help move the wheels. The tie rods are attached to the ends of the steering rack and pinions as they roll over the slotted rack, and they help push and pull the front tires as the steering wheel turns. Tie rods play an important role in the steering of the vehicle and the overall safety of the car. But how long do tie rods usually last?

Like most car parts, tie rods don't simply deteriorate because they were made on a specific date and their time has expired. They will deteriorate due to normal wear and tear. Tie rods can last for years and some owners may not need to replace them at all, but their lifespan can be affected by certain driving conditions. Driving obstacles such as potholes, poor road conditions or even minor accidents can cause tie rods to not work properly. Because of their importance and high usage, some recommend regular tie rod inspections.

If you are not checking your tie rods regularly, there are warning signs to look (and listen) for. If your vehicle is pulling to one side while driving or braking, bad tie rods may be the culprit. When there is a tie rod problem, the inside and outside edges of your vehicle's tires can also wear unevenly. However, one of the most obvious signs of a bad tie rod is a knocking sound from the front end of your vehicle when you enter a parking space or other low-speed, sharp-turning situation.

If the tie rods on your vehicle do need to be replaced, it is recommended that both the left and right sets of tie rods be replaced and that a complete four-wheel vehicle alignment be performed afterwards. If you suspect the tie rods may be bad, a mechanic can perform some simple checks to see if there is undue excessive movement in the tie rods. If your vehicle encounters any extreme road conditions or unusual contact with the front wheels (such as hitting a curb), it is best to check the tie rods as well.

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