A tie rod is an important component of a vehicle’s steering and suspension system. It helps to keep your car’s wheels aligned, allowing the driver to have full control over the direction and maneuverability of the vehicle. But when a tie rod breaks while driving, it can be scary and dangerous. In this article, we will discuss what causes a tie rod to break and what you should do if it happens while you’re on the road.
The Difference between an Inner and Outer Tie Rod
A tie rod is made up of two parts: an inner and outer tie rod. The inner tie rod connects with your car’s steering rack, which is connected to your steering wheel, allowing you to turn left or right as needed. The outer tie rod connects with the knuckle assembly that holds up your front wheels, giving them their range of motion when turning corners or making sharp turns.
What Causes a Tie Rod to Break?
The most common cause of a broken tie rod is wear over time due to regular use or harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow buildup. This type of wear can cause corrosion on the metal that makes up the mechanism which in turn weakens it, making it more vulnerable to breaking or snapping. Other causes of a broken tie rod include an accident, an uneven road surface, or an improper repair job.
How Can You Identify a Broken Tie Rod?
If you suspect that your tie rod is broken, there are some signs to look out for that may indicate the issue. These include uneven tire wear, difficulty steering around corners or tight turns, and loud clanking noises from the suspension system when driving over bumps in the road. In addition, there may be visible signs of damage such as cracked rubber boots around the tie rod ends if you take a closer look underneath your car.
What Happens When a Tie Rod Breaks While Driving?
When a tie rod breaks while driving it can cause instability in your vehicle’s handling and make it difficult to control direction and maneuverability. You may experience pulling to one side when trying to turn as well as excessive vibration coming from the front wheels due to misalignment with the other wheel components. In extreme cases, this can result in loss of control over the vehicle which puts you at risk for an accident or other serious injury if left unaddressed.
What Should You Do If Your Tie Rod Breaks?
If you notice any of the above-mentioned signs that a tie rod is broken, it is important to pull over as soon as possible and call for help. If you are in an area that does not have cell phone reception, it is best to stay put in your vehicle and wait for help to arrive since attempting to drive with a broken tie rod can be hazardous.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Broken Tie Rod?
The cost of repair depends on several factors such as the make and model of your car, the severity of the damage, and whether you choose to purchase original or aftermarket parts. However, generally speaking, replacing a tie rod should range from $250-$600 depending on labor costs and parts purchased.
Conclusion
When driving with a broken tie rod can be dangerous, so it’s important to be aware of the warning signs that indicate this issue may be present. Knowing what causes a tie rod to break and how much it will cost to repair can also help you prepare in advance by getting regular maintenance checks done on your vehicle so you know what kind of shape its components are in. With this knowledge in hand, you can ensure that your car is safe to drive and that any tie rod issues can be addressed quickly and efficiently.
