How to Tell if Your Tie Rod is Bad

How to check tie rods and how to verify a tie rod end is worn, Learn how to tell if your inner and outer tie rods are good or bad on your car or truck.
Good place to find tie rods (inexpensive): www.amazon.com/s/ref=as_li_ss_...
How to replace an outer tie rod: • How to Replace an Oute...
How to replace the inner and outer tie rod: • How to Change Tie Rods...
How to replace a Control Arm: • How to Replace a Contr...
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-Website: www.ChrisFixed.com
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Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of ChrisFix, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. ChrisFix assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. ChrisFix recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of ChrisFix, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not ChrisFix.

[@lhoranjohns1]

Wish all vids were straight to the point like this. Some guys will spend 20 min tellin you why tie rods were invented. Well made video.

[@richarddaft5845]

Johns L909 yeah totally, he's got my sub for that exact reason

[@mike718nyc]

Johns L909 lol you are on the point

[@anthonyomisorecanfixit]

lmaooo

[@june3732]

l_johns worse thing is when a coworker is like that🤦‍♂️

[@judyj5604]

Lol agreed I love his videos for that reason alone

[@lou4437]

Chris Fixx - thanks a ton dude. Bought a 1998 F150 with 160k miles and after getting shammed by local shop decided to take a shot at doing my own work. Your videos have enabled me to replaced tie rods, shocks, brake lines, complete brake jobs (front and back), points, plugs, belts, and rear spring brackets over the past three years. The truck now has 198k and I drive it on weekends to drive around town, haul, help neighbors, and family members that need use of a truck. Thank you for taking the lead in providing the knowledge to do these jobs.

[@chrisfix]

Awesome!!! I am glad the videos are helpful!

[@keter217]

H😑 b😐😑😐😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑🎉😢

[@keter217]

H😑 b😐😑😐😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑😑🎉😢

[@sergevangotum2123]

Chris, your videos are exactly what we are all looking for. You speak at the perfect pace and don’t waste anyone’s time with superfluous information. Thank you for a job well done.

[@dean3434]

I agree.

[@Stephenc35753]

Had to replace my mom's tie rods this past weekend and your videos helped SO MUCH!!! I was able to do what would have cost her at least $300 originally for about $100. Thank you so much Chris, you are awesome!

[@namychanful]

C'est

[@joziksk4323]

What 😱. I bought mine for 8€ each

[@dillonryan3419]

This is easily one of the better auto videos I have ever seen on KZbin. Thank you for being so quick and concise with pertinent information. No Fluff.

[@chrisfix]

No problem! I make sure all of my videos are like this!

[@StillThinkingAboutIt]

Amen, good job

[@swara9685]

dillon ryan well said

[@CASH-TO-THE-MERE101]

dillon ryan 🔥🔥🔥

[@jimmysjohn141]

My honda is making clicking noise when turning left or right after it's been parked for a while. Especially reversing backward. The dealership said they couldn't find the issue.

[@Andimia55]

Thank you for not droning on. Usually, I get bored halfway through youtube car videos because it's over-explained but you gave us just the right amount of information with narration that fit with your video to make it easy to follow. Doing my own tie rod inspections tomorrow!

[@HeadOutOnTheHighway]

Thanks, Chris! I stumbled upon your vids when researching why my 84 Vanagon was feeling like it had lost its NON-power steering. Your comforting and confident talk-thru made me feel confident enough to self-diagnose my tie rod problems. Thanks!

[@dywildatheart]

Chris...thank you for the video. We diagnosed the problem and fixed the inner and outer toe rod on my son in laws car thanks to you. Your videos are so clear and helpful. Thanks again David.

[@chrisfix]

I'm glad you were able to diagnose and fix the issue!

[@JoeyPauga]

Very concise and clear. I was able to see exactly how to diagnose that my tie rods are what's making the clicking sounds. Thanks, very helpful!

[@DarkWizardPrince]

I love your videos man. I have learned a lot from you in the past couple of months. I am going to do my rear brakes myself for the first time. I never had the confidence before.

[@MickeyRegala]

Watching a 9 year old video for my 10 year old car. Dude this is just such a quality video thank you

[@chrisfix]

Thanks a lot!

[@eliasrivera503]

This is by far one of the best videos on KZbin. You spoke at a fast pace and also thoroughly gave enough information that was easy to follow.

[@PecanTan1992]

As a woman I appreciate how knowledgeable this video is. I know about inner and outer tie rods from my 2003 Toyota Camry. By watching your video I feel like I can change my own 😂 Thanks 👍🏽

[@patriciahill4492]

I heard the Lord say, "tie rod". So I looked it up and you came up. Then I watched your video and that's exactly what just happened to my car coming home right now. Thank you for sharing. Very informative. 🦋🌻😊

[@adamb84]

This happens to me, I believe it's your Guardian Angels, God send them here to protect us 🙏

[@ko2qx]

that's not how god works lmfao. but i guess he saved you from a tie rod issue, and didn't save the 6yo he watched and let get raped. 🙄 fairy tales are bad for mental health.

[@frankleal1557]

Always a great video. Short and straight to the point. Thank you Chris.

[@superseriousreviews1168]

Chrisfix has taught me so much. Thank you, 1,000,000 times better than a Haynes manual.

[@chanisingh3437]

Your videos are the best. Very detailed and helpful.

[@chrisfix]

Thanks a lot!

[@tabbimerten9815]

Fayee Bayy wheels/tires out of balance

[@user-zb6kj2ve8l]

Chani Singh للرررا

[@user-zb6kj2ve8l]

يببففبغبىفى

[@CASH-TO-THE-MERE101]

Chani Singh 🔥🔥🔥

[@bokneeza]

Thanks dude. Really dig your channel and the way you describe things. Some ppl just skip to the chase and don't explain

[@chrisfix]

Ceasar Rodriguez No problem Ceasar! I am glad the videos are helpful!

[@abradford3456]

Chris your videos that I’ve seen are by far the best. Your explanations and instructions are clear and straightforward. Your videos are clear with 💡on the subject. You speak clearly so everyone can understand. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️s Buddy. Keep up the good work!

[@jeffuy458]

Man the family has been saving Hundreds becuase of your vids man. I even want to open a shop now. All because i learn from your videos. Thanks alot Chris!

[@PsychoSpiral]

Thank gawd for KZbin and channels like yours Chris. Very helpful.

[@chrisfix]

withnaturalflavors Awesome! Glad the video was helpful!

[@miguelleal1829]

ChrisFix when changing the outer tie rods would you need an alignment?

[@DJ5817]

Miguel Leal I’m not Chris but yes. You will need to do alignment.

[@CASH-TO-THE-MERE101]

withnaturalflavors 🔥🔥🔥

[@Daniel-so6rd]

Very helpful, straight forward and really enjoyable to watch Chris! The first video you see, you like ChrisFix no doubt! 💪🏻🙏🏻

[@monstavation5459]

STRAIGHT TO THE POINT 💯 Give this dude a show, wish all YT vids were this direct, THX

[@samsungalham2891]

That was a very clear, simple, direct, helpful, and very professional description. If it is possible I would give 1000000 likes. Well done

[@bountywarrior8381]

i love watching your videos it does help me a lot, since I'm a DIY person.

[@Brandon-ch2ot]

Hey just wanted to say thank you for your videos and all the instructions. I have been restoring a 1994 ford f150 using these videos as guide lines. Already replaced a lot of parts and the truck is running better and better everyday. Thanks again man!

[@chrisfix]

That is awesome! I am glad the videos are helpful!

[@titusmakale233]

The best videos so far. I changed mine yesterday. There was play on the steering wheel...only to discover it was worn out tie rod

[@Iheartcatz]

Excellent video. Straight to the point. No long stories..just awesome. Thanks

[@mod7mgt35r2]

I like it. You explained everything so well. Thank you.

[@learning2levitatethroughdr685]

This is by far the best auto (how-to) video i have ever seen. Thank you very much

[@chrisfix]

oonauq Thank you! I try to make all of my videos easy to follow so anyone can fix their car themselves!

[@crushworthyxo]

Love your videos! I’m trying to learn why my mechanic is trying to charge me an arm and a leg to replace both my tie rods when the left inner and outer were just replace a year and a half ago. I’d like to learn how to check these things myself to find out if he’s just yanking my chain and your videos are super clear and to the point!

[@johnyamashita5405]

I agree that your videos are easy to follow and as a new DIYer, they have helped me with a few repairs. Keep up the good work!

[@rayhernandez5037]

Appreciate you sharing your knowledge I've been learning a lot, thank you and God bless

[@gman781]

Chris fix you are the man .ALWAYS great info no.1

[@MrTag189]

You are amazing.. I just diagnosed an outer BJ failure for my Honda fit... Thanks for the ever so impressive clips...

[@faustmaglinao1331]

Wow! Very detailed, straight to the point yet short. Thanks! Easy to understand.

[@dennychaney597]

Great vids Chris! Informative and to the point, no BS involved which is a major plus imo

[@nobodycares9584]

thank you teacher, you have blessed me!

[@hamzaali-qz4ci]

Absolutely amazing explanations ,I am 50 yrs old and know nothing about car car engine or cars at all .After watching 3-4 of your videos I am confident that I can do small jobs on my car .It goes without saying that I have subscribed.⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@SamFreedom]

I was reading the preview of your comment, then the whole thing and I thought it was me at first. 🤣 Because I would say the exact same thing IB the exact same way.

[@loveforfrannie2208]

Thank you for being straightforward and quick to the point!

[@leoncarr920]

You're really good at this. Great instructions with easy to follow commentary... sounds like you know your stuff... Makes me more confident speaking with my mechanic... Good stuff. I have some play when starting a sharp turn in either direction also happens as the steering is nearing the full lock position. It's minor play for now but do you have any thoughts on what's causing this? Cheers Leon

[@geoben1810]

One good way to prevent excessive wear on your front end suspension and steering components is to whenever possible, let the car move forward or backward a little while turning the wheel. Thereby putting less strain on the system.

[@alana8088]

Especially on lifted vehicles with big tires and power steering. People tend to abuse their front end because of their power steering.

[@pyramidion5911]

Learned that the hardway from a dx honda civic hatchback (no power steering)

[@jamespal3186]

I don't get it, can you elaborate please

[@adudeontheinternet1]

It takes less effort to turn the tire if the vehicle is moving. Usually if it were to take 30 lbs of force to turn the wheel when not inmotion it would take 5-8 lbs of force to turn the wheel of you are inmotion ie rolling forward or backwards as you turn. These are not scientific measurements they are just example to give you an idea of the different forces required.

[@MrSupernova111]

I love this video. Going to replace my outer tie rods in the morning. Can't wait. Thanks!

[@kakhetosumi2372]

Chris ur an awesome practical visual teacher...jst straight to the point..love ur videos..ty

[@alexeyvarivoda7995]

Thanks. Good help material.

[@vma862]

After watching this video that's 6 years old I see why you're always wearing gloves in your newer videos. lol

[@marcusjones1688]

Hay chris what state are you in?

[@Therealryuh20]

@@marcusjones1688 He is from New Jersey

[@dannyboyrides4507]

why does he wear gloves?

[@manperformance9253]

@@dannyboyrides4507 because he has some dirty ass hands

[@justinbrandon7990]

No glove no love

[@israelrodriguez6986]

I'm glad to hear that ur willing to take questions on ppls vehicles and try to help them out. Because of that, u earned my subscription!!! Helpful video and straight to the point!

[@chrisfix]

Thanks Israel!

[@mjrwrxk2295]

Fast vídeos and simply to understand how to test .I am mechanic in Brazil and appreciate your videos .Congrats bro

[@rtothemutha]

Very good, very articulate. Thanks

[@chrisfix]

Thanks!

[@CASH-TO-THE-MERE101]

rtothemutha 🔥🔥🔥

[@choward874]

shit that's easy why the hell have I been paying for this shit! thanks so much!

[@mylittlepony4660]

hopefully in future.....car become TRANFORMER.

[@NewsOnQueue]

It really is a simple fix.

[@superhandyman4597]

Even easier on my Rav4 ill be posting a video on that soon

[@himah1453]

Bro what can I say, you explained everything very simple and very clear. Keep up the good work and you have a wonderful day

[@josecossio3848]

Excellent! Clear and to the point. Just what you want when you need help! Thank you ChrisFix!

[@guahoniyug6758]

Chris on a montero sport how do you test the inner tie rod for wear? It looks the same as an outer tie rod end. Thanks for any advice.

[@mykeyd5567]

I just had new tires installed from Mr. Tire and they tried to tell me that my lower control arm was bad (add $350). Thanks to your video I know that wasn't the case and the part they were pointing out was the tie rod which there is nothing wrong. Thank you from a non-mechanic but someone who is trying to learn.

[@chrisfix]

I'm glad the video was able to save you from some bad mechanics, and I'm glad you learned something from the video!

[@perfectcurve9727]

Those people just tried to charge me 1300 for a tie rod. Singular. Looks like they have not improved since they tried to screw you over.

[@intestinalworm1202]

Chris, your videos are first-class my friend!!! Two thumbs up from Australia!

[@jessicabecause3717]

Im not subbed because I dont need auto repair all up in my feed, but I do always rely on you for no BS videos and even shade tree tips for the car inside and out when I need them!

[@uguegue]

Nice one mate . Simply brilliant,thanks for the heads up,

[@vikingtu]

Thanks for the video's. Well produced and you have a great way of explaining each lesson.

[@chrisfix]

Im glad the videos are helpful!!

[@vikingtu]

There are so many video's out there but the problem, from what I see, is the production. Flashy video's with overbearing music is not helpful. A calming demeanor with accurate information and straight on video shots creates a great product.

[@shaundorton3550]

I really do appreciate the short quick knowledgeable video. All these people we watch these days don't show quick knowledge they're all about their self thank you very much keep up the good videos and the good work thanks Guy

[@andyhollister4610]

Dude that video was refreshing crisp quick to the point you talk fast but clearly loved it no filler BS thank you

[@buggtaculer]

Just wanna say very well made video. Answered questions I didn’t even know i had👍🏼

[@chrisfix]

Glad the video was helpful!

[@dcanon]

Great info as always!! Look forward to your videos every week.

[@chrisfix]

Thanks a lot man! I appreciate it! Makes making these videos worth it knowing there are people looking forward to them!

[@AllThingsG7]

Thanks man. You never disappoint with these videos 🙏🏽💪🏽🤙🏽

[@nickklaas4776]

Chris you ROCK!!! Your vids are really helping me keep my truck on the road.

[@Gartar215]

You're the man!

[@chrisfix]

gamerMan Thanks!

[@CASH-TO-THE-MERE101]

JustMan 🔥🔥🔥

[@markspears9856]

Awesome videos!!! To the point with great explanation. Thanks Chris!!!!!!

[@chrisfix]

Thanks Mark!

[@cordellagillespie7368]

I understood everything, very clear and straight to the point. Thank you Chris ❤️

[@TOURlST]

Chris, your channel is awesome. Thank you very much for making all these helpful videos.

[@ethanblend]

Well explain , thanks Chris for the tips

[@chrisfix]

Glad the video was helpful.

[@CASH-TO-THE-MERE101]

Etienne Dupuis 🔥🔥🔥

[@spazzologist]

Chris Tips!!

[@randy2.0kitt]

When you retighten that tie rod end link bolt it look like the inner moved shouldn't you vice grips inner before you tighten the endlink

[@Still.In.Saigon]

Thanks for all your videos! I was wondering what is your thoughts of a wheel alignment using the 'string' method?

[@enrique967]

You are amazing at this! Thanks for being clear, simple, direct, and high quality video. Subscribed and will be back! Thanks!

[@mattimel2184]

I had the play left to right but then my buddy noticed the steering wheel moving. After one of us held the wheel there was no play at all. Could that still be tie rod issues or did the steering just not lock? Maybe also to note just one tire was off the ground.

[@maverick19702000]

I have this same question.

[@mattimel2184]

@@maverick19702000 let me know if you ever find an answer and I’ll do the same

[@baeyzl]

I was just watching a different vid in regards to wheel bearings. It mentioned the steering wheel turning while checking. Turn the ignition to free up the wheel lock. It shouldn't move after that.

[@xx3868]

Another very instructional comprehensive video but not long and time wasting. thumbs up from me

[@chrisfix]

Thanks! I’m glad the video was helpful!

[@michaelpeeacock7255]

Timxx3868 👀

[@jonathan11b60]

Thank you for the video it helped me diagnose my tie rod end i had no clue until now, i knew somthing was up when my car steering wheel became loose feeling and kept pulling to the right. Went to get a alignment and still was having the issues wish the alignment place would of checked everything out.

[@BrokeTruckerGyal]

Dude. I love you. Where the heck would I be without you and your videos ?!

[@chrisfix]

Thanks for all the support!

[@danielmarkum4446]

Hey Chris, I recently got in a small wreck going about 15mph on the front passenger side wheel. Now it shakes at slow and high speeds pretty bad. I got two new tires and had them balanced, still shakes. The steering wheel feels smooth but the front end shakes. Hope you can help!

[@winstonalpha1286]

yup, i agree, very well made, simple to the point and informative video ! thanks 4 this !

[@chrisfix]

Thanks! Glad the video was helpful!

[@matthewhart256]

hey my tire rods both move when I am trying to unbolt the nut is that normal or does that mean they are bad

[@matthewhart256]

hey my tire rods both move when I am trying to unbolt the nut is that normal or does that mean they are bad

[@matthewhart256]

hey my tire rods both move when I am trying to unbolt the nut is that normal or does that mean they are bad

[@matthewhart256]

hey my tire rods both move when I am trying to unbolt the nut is that normal or does that mean they are bad

[@tiffanywright730]

First this is the hands down best car repair video I've ever came across. Thank You. Now my question is what would be causing a noise on the highway that sounds like the right front tire is bad (it's not) if you pull to the left it goes away. Also if you make a sharp right turn, turning in to parking spot for example, it will pop. 4 new tires alignment is straight. Old tires had slightly more wear on the outer but not much. Anyway thank you again for such a straight forward video.

[@kendradelashmutt6344]

WOW!!! You da man.. Learned more in watching 4 min of your video than anywhere else I've visited.

[@nicholas8nj]

Thanks . I had hit the side of the curve tire ripped. Got it replaced with used tire. Check air pressure came up on my Buick. I decided to have other 3 wheels balanced with each weight. Left later 45 mph car front car shakes bit. Mechanic said he will look at it on lift and see if anything is loose.

[@nicholas8nj]

I now was shown how the wheel was loose resulting in bad tie rods, just like you said. You are so great😊 Now the mechanic suggested Alignment. So I got Lifetime Warranty at Firestone for $199.00. Now I'm waiting. I just want to be safe. Have a great day.

[@nicholas8nj]

@gear head It was a ripped tire when I hit the side of the curve. No tie rod

[@dognatious6153]

Most thorough tight-shot, perfectly-paced videos on the internet.

[@bakanibaleni5865]

No nonsense , no time wasting but straight to the point and very informative well made video

[@philibuster986]

Excellent tips Chris. Will inspect my 99 Tahoe 4 wheel drive today. Shop said I need everything for front end at $1,000 price tag. Will tackle tie rods first. Hoping to save 1/2.

[@pgo301]

Would love to own a collection of ALL your videos on DVD !!! Would be so helpful to take the DVD to my garage and load them on my laptop and perform the work there. Your videos will eventually put the Stealerships and ripoff garages out of business. Thanks for all your help through the years ChrisFix !! :D

[@kathy47802]

Very helpful. Thanks much.

[@chrisfix]

I'm glad you found the video helpful!

[@pcyunas]

Love your videos. Clear and concise explanation and good camera work.

[@chrisfix]

Thanks a lot!

[@jackiemiiers9845]

Best most respectful video i have almost ever seen.

[@66bel77]

Very helpful video, thanks!

[@chrisfix]

+66Bel Glad the video was helpful!

[@STeeLothabestrapper]

+ChrisFix hi sorry for the late question but when i roll over rough parts roads I hear a jingling sound from my passenger front tire its really noisy and makes my car sounds horrible..

[@austinfarley4971]

How do I rent a Chris Fix? I have to do this and/or ball joints on my 03 tacoma.

[@Berannn_]

Austin Farley how did it go?

[@therealbigfoot3076]

Call your mom, I hear hes there allot

[@trevorc4052]

I am having uneven tire wear on all my tires. I feel like my front tire rods need replace but unsure about the inner ones. I also believe I may need to replace my control arm but I don't know what to look for. Also, I'll be replacing my springs in the front due to one going bad on the same side. Thank you for the information ChrisFix! 🙏🏾✌️🏾

[@apb38]

I always enjoy a ChrisFix video. Always good stuff.

[@sjeverett75]

its a good idea to check this stuff when buying a used car. I've been quoted $900 to replace all ball joints and tie rods. of course, I did the. myself, but that $900 can be used as bargaining chip with seller of car.

[@chrisfix]

+sjeverett75 Exactly!

[@PostersGamingg]

How much did this cost for you to do yourself?

[@jameswalsh6810]

PostersGaming probably around 3-400

[@julianharrison8048]

james walsh Tie rods really aren’t that expensive. At least outer tie rods aren’t, the issue is an alignment. Depending on where you go they can be upwards of 300 bucks. Whenever you change a tie rod you really need to get an alignment so you save a little doing it yourself but the alignment’s what’ll get you in the end.

[@soykin021gamplays]

Hey chris/ anyone my 2008 scion tc inner tire boot thingy is leaking grease. I'm not really sure what exactly is broken can someone help me identify the problem so I can fix it

[@twitchw9066]

That was a stellar video walk thru. Thank you sir😁

[@EliteMomo]

Legit came back to this video so I could fix my integeras tie rod thanks Chris’s you’re the man 🤙🏻

[@ruancoetzee5311]

can they cause a clunk over sharp bumps? my car has lots of play on the outer tie rods... it clunks over bumps

[@kickazz9473]

Ruan Coetzee yes they can my Chrysler only made noise when going over bumps. New tie rods and no more noise or clunking.

[@alyamoney]

Or your struts

[@Brandon-ln3il]

Check all of your bushings

[@MrOnemanop]

Sway bar end links, perhaps?

[@cameronwatson3076]

Also check your ball joints maybe

[@urbz200]

Hey I have a 2002 jeep ut. It shakes when I turn sharp corners would this be what I'm looking for.

[@chrisfix]

What's the condition of the power steering fluid? That can cause it to shake when turning!

[@SlyKola]

First off let me say I love your videos Chris...definitely the best videography, and that’s huge since you’re also clear and concise. So my question is, can your car shake if you have a tie rod end that’s shot?! I just performed a hub and bearing assembly install along with upper and lower ball joint replacements and I believe I over tightened the tie rod end nut but it seemed like it was ready to go soon too...you think it’s the tie rod end that’s causing the shaking when I brake at higher speeds and I hear shaking when I’m turning at higher speeds?

[@joefillicetti1165]

Thank you Chris for the videos. Very informative and right to the point!