How Tie Rods Work
What Are Tie Rods
Vehicle owners, even those who have little auto mechanical knowledge, know that there are some parts of their vehicles that need inspection more often than the others. Those parts include tie rods, which are parts of their car’s steering mechanism. People often hear these words when they have their cars checked. And while a tie rod can last for years, it is important to have it checked regularly because it is susceptible to wear and tear.
Just like its name, a tie rod is a structural rod that is used as a tie. These slender rods are attached on both ends of the steering rack, transmitting force from the steering centre to the steering knuckle, which therefore causes the wheel to turn. They are made up of an inner end and an outer end. The outer tie rod end is connected with an adjusting sleeve, allowing the length of the tie rod to adjust.
Because these rods have an important function and thus are vital to the car’s safety, they need to be inspected regularly along with the steering and suspension systems. A bad tie rod can mess with the alignment setting of the vehicle, cause erratic steering and major tyre wear, and can result to damages and accidents.
Inspecting Tie Rods
Not all drivers know exactly how their car works, but it is vital to their safety to know basic car functions. And since a tie rod has an important purpose, it is imperative to have it inspected regularly. These slender structural rods are made to last a long time, but certain conditions, such as running over road potholes or getting into minor accidents, can damage them. When they are in bad shape, they can cause excessive tyre wear and vibration.
There are warning signs indicating that the tie rods are in bad shape. Every driver must look out for these signs while driving. The rods may need repair, adjustment, or replacement if there is a knocking sound that can be heard from the front end of the vehicle or if the car pulls to one side when it is in motion or when it is about to stop. There may also be uneven wear signs on the inside and outside of a tyre.