How much would an estimate be on fixing both inner and outer tie rod ends?

My Nissan Altima has a very loose stirring wheel and has trouble turning at times. I'm not sure if it's the tie rod ends on both sides. How much would an estimate be on changing both tie rod ends?

My car has 170000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
If you have already obtained a conclusive diagnostic and, on the basis of that, want to replace only the tie rod ends, you can obtain the written quote that you have requested, and schedule the repair to suit your needs, by visiting YourMechanic’s tie rod end replacement service page. Once on that page, please click on "Get a Quote" and enter your vehicle information (year, make, model).

Prior to replacing any part, it is best to fully understand why the failure is occurring and the full extent of the failure. Proceeding that way will save you needless expense, aggravation and surprises. For instance, if you have failing tie rod ends as well as perhaps a binding strut bearing, or a power steering fault (you mention difficulty steering), or a problem with the rack and pinion unit, changing the tie rods ends is really not going to fully resolve your issue. If you have not already obtained a thorough and professional diagnostic, the best thing to do is obtain that first and then once you have all information make a decision about how to proceed. If you want to go the diagnostic route first, please simply request a steering system inspection. The mechanic can then give you a complete account and you can act on the basis of that. If you have further questions or concerns as you decide what to do, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic because we want you to make the most of your repair dollars and help you get the best possible results.

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Typically, it costs around $185 to $305 in total, with the new tie rod part costing about $40 to $120 and labor costing around $145 to $185. However, cost estimates can vary from vehicle to vehicle as well as based on which tie rod needs replacement. Tie rods have two parts — the inner tie rod and the outer tie rod.
The average cost for a Nissan Altima Tie Rod Replacement is between $146 and $158. Labor costs are estimated between $46 and $58 while parts are priced between $100 and $100.
The Average Cost for an Outer Tie Rod Replacement Is Between $99 and $210, Depending on If You Go to the Mechanic or DIY. This price range is based on national averages for all vehicles and does not factor in taxes, fees, or your particular make and model.
The average cost for a Nissan Rogue Tie Rod Replacement is between $236 and $252. Labor costs are estimated between $63 and $80 while parts are priced between $172 and $172.
Tie Rod Replacement Cost

The cost associated with tie-rod replacement generally falls into an average range of $200-$500, though in rare instances, such costs can end up being much higher.

The average car can probably get a tie rod replaced in about an hour labor plus about $80 for the part, so about $170.
While some suspension work is best left to the pros, tie rods are easily replaceable on most vehicles. Signs that you need to replace your tie rods include: front-end shimmy.
There is a test protocol in the factory service manual that is relied on to determine if a tie rod end is “worn out”. Per the protocol, if it turns out that only 1 tie rod end is worn out, then only that one need be replaced and the others can be left alone.
Because the tie rods link the steering wheel to the front wheels, steering problems can be a symptom of a loose or damaged tie rod. Common signs include a steering wheel that shakes or vibrates and looseness or excessive play in the steering wheel. The vibration typically becomes worse as you accelerate or turn.
Cars will typically have two tie rod ends on each side: one inner tie rod end and one outer tie rod end — four total with a set of two per side. Tie rod ends are usually permanently greased but some may have Zerk fittings for re-greasing, including aftermarket ones.
In general, most vehicle manufacturers recommend having your tie rods checked every 15,000 miles to ensure they`re in good working condition.
In the worst case scenario when a tie rod completely fails, the wheel will break free of the steering assembly which then causes the vehicle to lose the ability to steer. At the first sign of any wear to the tie rods, steering is already at risk and the vehicle is not safe to drive.
Tie rods can last for years and years and some car owners may never have to replace them at all, but their longevity can be affected by certain driving conditions. Driving obstacles like potholes, poor road conditions or even minor accidents can cause tie rods to work incorrectly.
How long do tie rods last? Tie rods can last for several years. In fact, you may never have to replace your tie rods. The conditions you drive in play a large role in the lifespan of tie rods.
An outer tie rod end is connected to each front wheel spindle, and an inner tie rod end is connected to the steering rack or steering gear box assembly. As your steering wheel is turned, a shaft connects the steering wheel to a steering gear assembly – either a steering gear box or rack and pinion gear mechanism.
The inner and outer tie rods on your vehicle can take up to some time. The dealership will change out the tie rod ends and then perform a vehicle alignment, so the time there will be to the upper 3 to 4 hours.
Tie rods can last for years and years and some car owners may never have to replace them at all, but their longevity can be affected by certain driving conditions. Driving obstacles like potholes, poor road conditions or even minor accidents can cause tie rods to work incorrectly.
Tie rods are a crucial component of a vehicle`s steering system, and when they start to go bad, you`ll feel the difference. Bad tie rods should be addressed immediately, and luckily, it`s not a super difficult job!

Relevant Questions and Answers :

the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue

How much would an estimate be on fixing both inner and outer tie rod ends?
ANSWER : If you have already obtained a conclusive diagnostic and, on the basis of that, want to replace only the tie rod ends, you can obtain the written quote that you have requested, and schedule the repair to suit your needs, by visiting YourMechanic’s tie rod end replacement service page. Once on that page, please click on "Get a Quote" and enter your vehicle information (year, make, model).

Prior to replacing any part, it is best to fully understand why the failure is occurring and the full extent of the failure. Proceeding that way will save you needless expense, aggravation and surprises. For instance, if you have failing tie rod ends as well as perhaps a binding strut bearing, or a power steering fault (you mention difficulty steering), or a problem with the rack and pinion unit, changing the tie rods ends is really not going to fully resolve your issue. If you have not already obtained a thorough and professional diagnostic, the best thing to do is obtain that first and then once you have all information make a decision about how to proceed. If you want to go the diagnostic route first, please simply request a steering system inspection. The mechanic can then give you a complete account and you can act on the basis of that. If you have further questions or concerns as you decide what to do, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic because we want you to make the most of your repair dollars and help you get the best possible results.

How to remove inner tie rod ends can’t seem to find hex engraving 4 spanner or socket set to twist Off inner tie rod off steering
ANSWER : You are correct, there is no hex pattern machined into the component. There is a special tool that can be used to remove the inner tie rods. Sometimes you can get a large wrench to work. There are only two flat surfaces, 180 degrees apart from each other, machined into the inner tie rods. I have also used a pipe wrench before, but the special tool makes it much easier. You may find loaner tools at you local parts store. If you would like, a certified technician from YourMechanic can come to your car’s location to replace the tie rod end for you.

Can I get cheap outer tie rods to last me one year
ANSWER : If you decide to get tie rods from an aftermarket supplier they should be good enough quality to last more than a year. They should meet or exceed factory specifications.

Hit the curb and front wheel (right side) completely misaligned 2006 BMW 325i
ANSWER : Hello – based on the description of your accident, yes, the repair list makes sense. As to replacing both front rims, there may additional damage to the 2nd rim – ask them to explain. Otherwise, the repair list makes sense, given your description.

Driver Side Inner & Outer Tie Rods and driver side strut being bent.
ANSWER : From what you’ve described, the damage was most likely caused from hitting a pot hole. If the damage was from a pot hole on the right side, in some cases it’s possible for the force to transfer over and damage the left side as well. If you’d like a second opinion on this, consider YourMechanic, as a certified technician can come to your home to diagnose your car’s suspension system and confirm these suspicions.

I wanted to know about how much it would cost to fix the heater in a 2000 dodge stratus/SE and to fix the windows that wont roll u
ANSWER : Inasmuch as used car repair, maintenance, and restoration costs are highly dependent on the actual, as found, condition of the vehicle, the only way to get a reasonably precise estimate of repair costs you might face, and also to protect yourself in the transaction, is to request a pre-purchase vehicle inspection. That inspection, carried out by a certified Mechanic, dispatched to your location, will give you the exact data that you need to make a fully informed, intelligent decision and minimize your risk in buying a used car. If you look at the just cited link for YourMechanic’s inspection service, you will see a long, long list of the vehicle systems that must be inspected as well as details of YourMechanic’s inspection methodology.

With regard to the two faults that have already been revealed to you, namely the non functioning cabin heater and the non functioning window, the heater repair could cost anywhere in the range of $70 (stuck heater control valve; no part replacement) on up to the hundreds of dollars if the heater core in the dash is plugged and has to be removed and replaced. On the window motor circuit, fuses are circuit protection devices and thus do NOT fail for no reason. If a fuse failed, there is a short circuit or other electrical fault in the circuit that will have to be diagnosed and resolved. There again, you can assume anywhere from $70 (if merely a wire is found shorted to ground) on up in the case where you need a new power window motor and/or regulator. If you want a quick and dirty "guess" as to what you should request as a "discount" on account of just the two problems in a case where you have no diagnosis in hand (i.e., no accurate understanding of the extent of the required repairs), you should request at least $500 off the car price to protect yourself. But, getting back to my remarks at the outset, really the ENTIRE vehicle should be thoroughly inspected and you should obtain a complete inspection report from an objective outside third party. I would not rely of the self report of the owner, unless you know the owner personally. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

Inner tie rod with tool cant remove
ANSWER : In order to remove the inner tie rods you have to use a tool to bend back the lock tabs that hold it locked in place. Once the lock tab is bent back then the remover tool can loosen the tie rod. Install new tie rod and tighten and bend over lock tab to secure it in place.

Firestone said I need to replace the left-outer tie rod ends. But, I’m not noticing any of the signs mentioned for this problem.
ANSWER : Hello, thank you for writing in. With the issues you are having, the only way to confirm the issues is with another inspection. When it comes to the shifting issue, you want to check the transmission fluid level. If it is low, you will experience similar symptoms. From there the exact repair and cost will depend on where the fluid is leaking from. When it comes to your axle, symptoms of the issue may be as simple as a clicking noise. You can lift the front of the vehicle up and take a look at the axle and its boot. If the rubber boot is leaking grease, cracked, dry, or damaged then it needs to be replaced. Dirt will get inside and cause even more damage as it dries out and lacks lubrication. You can also push up and down, and back and forth on the wheel to check for excess play. For more help with the repair, or a second inspection, contact our service department to schedule an appointment.