Tie Rod Ends Service Video

Tie rod ends are the small ball-and-socket joints that connect your steering rack to the front wheels. Every input from the steering wheel passes through them before the wheels actually turn. Their condition directly controls how your vehicle tracks down the road.

This video walks through where the inner and outer tie rod ends sit on the steering linkage. It shows how they translate rack movement into wheel angle. In normal operation, the greased ball joint pivots smoothly through small deflections thousands of times per trip without any slack.

Wear shows up as play in that joint. Drivers usually notice a loose or wandering feel in the steering, uneven inner-edge tire wear, or a faint clunk over bumps. That clunk is the socket knocking against its housing as the suspension cycles.

An inspection lifts the front end and rocks the wheel to feel for lateral play at the tie rod. It also checks the boot for torn rubber or lost grease. When wear is confirmed, schedule a suspension, steering and wheel service inspection to get the component replaced and the alignment reset.

Gravel shoulders and frost-heaved pavement around Moses Lake and Ephrata push repeated shock loads through the tie rod boot. That tears the seal and lets grit grind the ball joint from the inside.

If the steering feels loose or your front tires are wearing on the inside edge, call Affordable Automotive Services at (509) 764-0000, or visit your local mechanic in Grant County, WA to book an inspection.