What is a Tie-rod and why is it important?

A tie-rod helps your steering rack control the movement of your wheel when you steer. A loose tie rod is a major safety concern as it can separate. If a tie rod end separates, the vehicle will lose steering control. If you have seen a disabled vehicle on the side of the road with the front wheels pointing in different directions, it could be that one of the tie-rod ends has separated. Symptoms of a loose tie rod end include a clunking, rattling or knocking noise in the front end and looseness felt in the steering. 

This worn-out outer tie rod end has separated.

The problem is that often, a loose tie rod end may not produce any symptoms. Many mechanics will tell you when the vehicle comes for an oil change that a tie rod end, or some other part of the front end, is about to fall off.  For this reason, the steering system, as well as brakes, suspension and other underneath components must be inspected at least once a year. The only way to properly inspect tie rods and other steering and suspension components is when the vehicle is raised on a lift.