Tie rod end
The small pivoting joint that connects your steering to each front wheel.
In plain English
Tie rods are the links between the steering system and the front wheels. When you turn the steering wheel, the tie rods push or pull the wheels to point them. The tie rod end is the pivoting joint at the tip, and there is typically an inner and an outer one on each side.
Why it's on your estimate
The joint wears and develops play, meaning it wiggles when it shouldn't. That shows up as loose or vague steering, a shaky steering wheel, or tires wearing on one edge.
How urgent is it?
Don't wait
Steering parts are safety parts. A tie rod end with noticeable play should be replaced promptly, because a failed one means losing steering control of that wheel.
Questions to ask the shop
- Inner or outer, and which side?
- Can you show me the play in the joint?
- Is an alignment included in the price?
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