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When it comes to maintaining your vehicle's steering system, understanding the role that inner and outer tie rods play and the signs that it's time to replace these parts is crucial for ensuring a smooth ride. After all, these components play a vital role in a vehicle’s handling and stability. Today's article is a closer look at the purpose of tie rods, how they work, and signs you need to replace them. Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Tie Rods?

Tie rods are essential components of your vehicle's steering mechanism. They connect the steering gear to the wheels, allowing for precise control and movement. There are two types of tie rods: inner and outer.

• Inner Tie Rods: Located closer to the steering gear, inner tie rods connect the steering rack to the outer tie rods. They are responsible for transferring the motion from the steering wheel to the wheels.
• Outer Tie Rods: Positioned at the end of the tie rod assembly, outer tie rods connect the inner tie rods to the steering knuckles on the wheels. They help in steering the vehicle by turning the wheels in response to the driver's input.

When you turn the steering wheel, the steering rack moves, causing the inner tie rod to pivot and transmit that motion to the outer tie rod. This action steers the wheels in the desired direction. The design allows for adjustments in alignment and responsive steering, while also accommodating suspension movement.

Proper functioning of both tie rods is needed for vehicle stability and handling.

Signs of Tie Rod Wear

Both inner and outer tie rods wear out over time, leading to symptoms that include:

• Uneven tire wear
• Steering wheel vibration
• Loose or wandering steering
• Clunking or knocking noises when turning
• Difficulty steering or a stiff steering wheel
• Visible damage or wear on the tie rods
• Alignment issues

If you suspect you need replacement tie rods installed, or you're not sure what suspension service you need and would like a professional to assist you in locating and correcting the issue, contact Arch Street Wheel & Tire in Little Rock, Arkansas. We specialize in suspension repair and maintenance and will be happy to assist you in any way we can.