When it comes to car maintenance, the tie rod end oftentimes doesn’t receive the attention it deserves. It connects the steering rack to the wheel and plays a crucial role in making sure your car goes where you want it to go. But, what happens when it starts to fail? Let’s dive into it!
Symptoms and causes
There are a few signs that indicate your tie rods might be on their way out:
- Excessive vibration: Notice your steering wheel shaking when you turn? That’s your vehicle’s way of telling you something’s off. This excessive vibration often means loose or worn-out tie rods.
- Unresponsive steering wheel: If you find that the steering wheel has a lot of play or isn’t responding accurately, it could be due to bad tie rods.
- Bad vehicle alignment: If your car seems to drift left or right while driving straight, that’s another red flag. Damaged tie rods can cause misalignment.
- Uneven tyre wear: Have you checked your tyres lately? If they’re wearing down unevenly, tie rods may be the culprits.
- Abnormal sounds: A high-pitched squeaking when you turn the wheel? You guessed it, a sign that your tie rod might be failing.
The causes of tie rod failure can include excessive wear from harsh driving conditions, corrosion, lubrication leaks, and damaged components in the steering and suspension systems.
What is involved in the repair?
So, what does it take to fix a failing tie rod?
- Inspection by a mechanic: It’s essential to have a qualified mechanic assess the situation. This often involves lifting the vehicle and checking for excessive play in the tie rod.
- Tie rod replacement: If it turns out you need a new tie rod, the process involves removing the old ones, installing new ones, and ensuring everything is tight and aligned.
- Testing: After replacement, the mechanic usually goes through a series of checks to ensure everything is working smoothly.
What is the rough cost of these repairs in New Zealand
If you’re in New Zealand, the cost to replace a tie rod can vary. Generally, you’re looking at:
- Parts: $30 – $100 for the tie rod end.
- Labour: Typically between $200 – $500 for the complete job.
- Total costs: Ideally, budgeting for $85 to $250 is wise, including both parts and labour.
Why my auto shop is the best place to get your car fixed
When it comes to car repairs, you deserve the best service available. Here’s why My Auto Shop should be your go-to:
- Convenience: We provide mobile mechanic services, meaning we come to your home or workplace!
- Transparency: No hidden fees. You’ll receive upfront pricing and honest quotes.
- Quality workmanship: All our repairs are covered by a solid 10,000km warranty.
- Customer focus: Our high Google rating speaks for our commitment to excellent customer service.
So next time you notice those signs of a failing tie-end rod, don’t hesitate! Reach out to My Auto Shop for a reliable and efficient fix. Your car deserves it!