As a driver, it’s good to know how to recognize some common symptoms of a bad tie rod.
The tie rod is a crucial part of your car’s front suspension and dictates the car’s steering and thus handling and maneuverability.
So, just like recognizing the symptoms of a bad ball joint or CV joint, it’s a matter of safety to know this.
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SYMPTOMS OF A BAD TIE ROD
1. UNEVEN TIRE WEAR
The first telltale symptom of a bad tie rod that you’ll easily recognize is uneven tire wear.
If you look at the tire you’ll see that one side of the tread is more worn out than the other.
Once you notice this, make an inspection of the suspension and steering system as soon as possible.
This may also be caused by other things like a bad ball joint for instance.
2. THE STEERING IS NOT PRECISE
Soon you’ll also notice that the steering is not as precise as usual. It will seem a bit wobbly and have a barely noticeable delay.
As the problem gets worse these symptoms will become more apparent.
3. THE CAR PULLS TO ONE SIDE
Besides the wobbly steering, you’ll probably notice that the car pulls to one side.
It resembles a situation when one tire is a bit deflated.
At first, it will be barely noticeable but later you’ll have to put some effort into keeping the car straight while driving.
4. SHAKING STEERING WHEEL
When the tie rode gets really worn out the steering will start to shake. At first, it seems like a bad alignment problem or a damaged tire.
The shaking usually starts as a small barely noticeable shaking and progresses to strong jolting in worst cases.
Know when it comes to jolting, the tie rod is on its last legs and the car is dangerous to drive.
5. CLICKING AND CLUNKING SOUND
The final symptom of a bad tie rod on this list is a distinct clicking and then clunking sound coming from the front suspension.
It usually starts as a barely noticeable clicking and at the same time, the car may start to pull to one side also.
Later it becomes a loud clunking sound that especially appears when you go over potholes or speed bumps for instance.
Whichever one of these sounds appears, you should check out what’s wrong as soon as possible. Just like with one of the previous symptoms of a bad tie rod, this signals that the tie rod is almost completely damaged.
CONCLUSION
Never neglect a tie rod problem. The moment you notice symptoms of a bad tie rod react immediately.
Make a thorough inspection of the complete suspension or drive your car to a mechanic and let them do it.
Otherwise, in worst-case scenarios, if the tie rod completely fails, you can easily lose control of the vehicle while driving.
Also, take a glance here and there at the tires. The uneven tire wear is a good and timely warning that something is wrong.
Written by: Sibin Spasojevic
Former car technician, life-long car and DIY enthusiast, author for Despairrepair.com
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