When you drive around Pasadena, your wheels and tires should stay pointed straight ahead unless you turn the steering wheel. The link between your steering wheel and your front wheels is maintained by several components in your vehicle’s suspension. No matter what kind of vehicle you drive, your suspension has parts called tie rods. These tie rods attach to the wheel housing, ensuring that your vehicle has a smooth and efficient ride. However, tie rods are subject to extreme stress and forces because they are constantly in use, as long as your vehicle is in motion. When your tie rods begin to wear out or fail, you should notice a few warning signs that tell you it’s time to have your vehicle inspected by your Certified Auto Repair Specialist to determine if they need to be replaced.
Worn out tie rods will show a few warning signs that they are beginning to fail and need to be replaced. If you notice any of these, call our certified mechanics at Orozco’s Auto Service as soon as possible so that we can properly diagnose the problem and fix what needs to be fixed before it causes you a bigger headache. Tie rods are not something that can be ignored forever – if they fail completely, you will no longer be able to steer your vehicle, and the sudden loss of control can easily cause an accident, injuring yourself and possibly somebody else on the road.
- Front end alignment is off: your vehicle drifts to the left or right when the steering wheel is pointed straight.
- Steering wheel shakes or feels loose – a worn tie rod may cause your steering wheel to vibrate at speeds as low as 20 mph.
- Uneven and/or excessive tire wear – tires that are worn unevenly, or wear out sooner than normal.
The tie rods are responsible for connecting the wheels of your vehicle with the steering and suspension components that give you control of your car through the steering wheel. Tie rod ends can wear out from impact, bumpy roads, or simply from being too old. If you get your tie rods replaced, it is important to also get an alignment to make sure that your wheels are pointing straight.
If you suspect that you may have a problem with your tie rods or they may be wearing out, it is important to get them inspected as soon as possible. Neglecting to do so may put not only yourself, but other people on the road in danger. To make an appointment, call your Certified Auto Repair Specialist of Pasadena today at (626) 793-2220.