Tie Rod Replacement Cost

What Is a Tie Rod?

Tie rods are essential steering components that connect your steering rack (or steering gearbox) to the steering knuckles on each wheel. When you turn the steering wheel, the tie rods translate that motion to turn your wheels. Each side of your vehicle has an inner tie rod and an outer tie rod end.

The inner tie rod threads into the steering rack and is protected by a rubber boot. The outer tie rod end connects to the steering knuckle via a ball joint. Together, they form a critical link in your steering system.

Inner vs Outer Tie Rod Replacement Cost

Understanding the cost difference between inner and outer tie rods helps you budget for repairs:

Why inner tie rods cost more: Inner tie rods are more difficult to access and require partial disassembly of the steering rack. Special tools are needed, and the labor time is approximately double that of outer tie rod ends.

Factors That Affect Tie Rod Replacement Cost

1. Inner vs Outer Tie Rod

The most significant cost factor is which tie rod needs replacement:

• Outer tie rod ends are easier to access (0.5-1 hour labor)
• Inner tie rods require removing the outer tie rod first and special tools (1-2 hours labor)
• Replacing both on one side is more cost-effective than two separate repairs

2. Vehicle Make and Model

Your specific vehicle impacts replacement cost:

• Economy cars have affordable, readily available parts
• Trucks and SUVs use heavier-duty tie rods that cost more
• Luxury and European vehicles often require specialized parts
• Some models have tie rod designs that increase labor time

3. Labor Rates in Your Area

Shop labor rates vary by region:

• Rural areas: $60-$85/hour
• Suburban areas: $85-$110/hour
• Urban areas: $110-$140/hour
• Dealerships: $140-$180/hour

4. Parts Quality

Tie rod quality options:

• Budget aftermarket: $15-$40 per end
• Quality aftermarket (Moog, TRW): $30-$80 per end
• OEM (Original Equipment): $60-$150 per end

Quality aftermarket parts from brands like Moog often include grease fittings for extended life, which OEM parts may lack.

5. Alignment Requirement

Wheel alignment is mandatory after tie rod replacement:

• Standard alignment: $80-$120
• Four-wheel alignment: $120-$180
• Some shops include alignment in their repair quote

Tie Rod Replacement and Wheel Alignment

Alignment is not optional after tie rod replacement. Tie rods directly control the toe angle of your wheels. Without proper alignment:

• Tires will wear unevenly and rapidly
• Vehicle may pull to one side
• Steering wheel may be off-center
• Handling and safety are compromised

Always confirm alignment is included in your repair quote, or budget for it separately.

Warning Signs of Worn Tie Rods

Watch for these symptoms indicating tie rod failure:

1. Uneven tire wear - Excessive wear on inside or outside edges
2. Loose steering feel - Excessive play before wheels respond
3. Clunking sounds - Noises when going over bumps or turning
4. Vibration in steering wheel - Especially at higher speeds
5. Vehicle pulls to one side - When steering wheel is centered
6. Steering wheel off-center - Points left or right when driving straight

Safety Warning: Severely worn tie rods can fail completely, causing total loss of steering control. If you notice multiple symptoms, have your vehicle inspected immediately.

DIY vs Professional Replacement

Outer Tie Rod End (DIY-Friendly)

Outer tie rod ends are a good DIY project for home mechanics:

1. Mark the tie rod position for approximate alignment
2. Remove the cotter pin and castle nut
3. Use a tie rod separator to disconnect from the steering knuckle
4. Unscrew the outer tie rod from the inner tie rod
5. Install the new tie rod at the marked position
6. Torque to specification and install new cotter pin
7. Get a professional alignment

Inner Tie Rod (Professional Recommended)

Inner tie rod replacement is more complex:

• Requires removing the outer tie rod first
• Steering rack boot must be removed
• Special inner tie rod tool required
• More opportunity for error

Unless you have experience with steering system repairs, inner tie rod replacement is best left to professionals.

How to Save Money on Tie Rod Replacement

1. Get multiple quotes - Prices vary 25-40% between shops
2. Ask about alignment packages - Some shops discount alignment when bundled
3. Replace in pairs - Doing both sides together saves labor
4. Use quality aftermarket parts - Brands like Moog offer excellent value
5. Consider independent shops - Often 25-35% less than dealerships
6. Inspect during tire rotations - Catching wear early prevents more expensive repairs