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How to replace car steering end rods

If your tires wear out significantly on both sides (tire wears down to an "egg shape"), then your rod ends are probably the cause.

It may also be of benefit to replace end rods if you are doing frontal alignment on a relatively old car, as worn out end rods will interfere with proper alignment, and cause imprecise steering operation.

Usually, there is a locking nut next to the end rod. It is tightened hard against the end rod, and its thread may be corroded as well, so it will be hard to remove. Apply penetrating oil to the thread, and go purchase replacement end rods. They may cost about $50 a pair.

There is usually a pin on the vertical thread that connects steering to wheel suspension assembly. Remove the pin, save it, and loosen that nut.

Leave end rod connected to suspension assembly to be able to loosen the locking nut. Rod that goes to steering control rotates. You need to hold the rod end with one wrench while loosening the nut.

Once you have it loose, stop. Remove rod end from suspension, and unscrew by holding the part that goes to steering steady, and unscrewing the rod end. Count the number of turns it takes to take off rod end, and write it down. When you replace rod end, screw it on to the same number of turns to preserve old alignment, otherwise alignment would have to be redone.

Inspect stabilizer bar link, CV boots, presence of rubber cap on brake bleeder bolt, condition of brake rotor, stabilizer bar bushings (attaching it to car chassis), and conditions of brake pads. Take care of repairs as necessary.

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