Tie rods connect either end of the steering rack to the steering knuckles on which the front wheels pivot when the steering wheel is turned.

The tie rod has two sections threaded together, so their length can be adjusted and the front wheels aligned.

The outer section, typically called the tie rod end, is most susceptible to wear and failure.

Though tie rod ends historically required regular lubrication, they are among many aspects of a modern vehicle’s chassis that are now maintenance-free.

When they fail, however, they can throw off the car’s alignment, cause premature tire wear or, in the worst cases, separate and cause a loss of control.