Tie Rod End
Shop Cost
~$280
DIY Parts
~$40
You Save
~$240
Tools needed (one-time, if you don't own them)~$195
Tools Required (6)
Jack & jack stands
Wrench set
Tie rod puller/pickle fork
Pliers
Tape measure
Torque wrench
Parts & Consumables
Tie rod end(s)Cotter pin
Pro Tip Mark old position for approximate alignment.
🚗 Vehicle-Specific Notes
Honda
12mm jam nut. Easy access. Mark position with paint pen before removal.
Toyota
19mm jam nut on most. Pickle fork or tie rod puller to pop from knuckle.
Ford F-150
Large tie rods. 21mm jam nut. Inner tie rod needs special tool on rack.
Extra tools: Inner tie rod tool
Subaru
17mm jam nut. Measure old tie rod length precisely. Count turns on removal.
BMW
Ball joint style with 16mm nut. Use puller, not pickle fork — saves boot.
Chevrolet
Trucks: heavy-duty tie rods. 15/16 jam nut. Cotter pin on castle nut.
❓ Common Questions
What tools do I need for a tie rod end?
You need 6 tools: Jack & jack stands, Wrench set, Tie rod puller/pickle fork, Pliers, Tape measure, Torque wrench. Parts required: Tie rod end(s), Cotter pin.
How much does a tie rod end cost DIY vs shop?
A shop charges approximately $280. Doing it yourself costs about $40 in parts, saving you $240.
How hard is a tie rod end to do yourself?
Rated Moderate (3/5 difficulty). Typically takes 1-2 hrs. Mark old position for approximate alignment.
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