Tie Rod End Play?

[Michael]

well yesterday I was doing a routine oil change on my car and since I had it on jack stands. I figure I would inspect the Ball joints along with the tie rod ends. When I grabbed the front wheel at 12 o clock and 6 o clock Positions I had no movement at all. But then when I grabbed the front wheel again at the 3 o clock position and 9 o clock position I had some movement in there and appears it was coming from the tie rod ends does this mean that my tie rod ball joints are bad? and if there are they difficult to replace?

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[Michael]

Also I checked both sides and the same result.

[Bill]

You should really have a helper wiggle the wheel for you while you inspect the tie rod ends for looseness. There are inner and outer tie rod ends and it could be either or both. Be sure you block the rear wheels and have safety stands under the front before getting underneath.

If you’re not sure have a professional check them for you. The outer tie rod ends are not too hard to replace but the inners can be a lot more difficult.

You will also need an alignment after replacement to be sure the toe adjustment is correct.

[Michael]

I think its the outer tie rod ends that will need replacing I thought all this time it was the steering column assembly because of a possible worn steering bearing in the column but quickly found out its the tie rods that are the problem

[Michael]

I might have to go to the dealership for this one anyway because I bought New tires a couple of weeks ago and need a alignment.

[Author]

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