Discover the Secret: How to Change Inner Tie Rod Honda Civic and Ensure a Smooth Drive!

Are you experiencing a frustrating shimmy in your Honda Civic’s steering wheel, especially at higher speeds? This could be a sign of a worn-out inner tie rod. While this might sound intimidating, replacing it is a DIY-friendly task that can save you a significant amount of money. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to change inner tie rod Honda Civic, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this common car maintenance issue.

Understanding the Inner Tie Rod

The inner tie rod is a crucial component of your Civic’s steering system. It connects the steering rack to the outer tie rod, which in turn attaches to the steering knuckle. This connection allows the wheels to turn in response to your steering wheel movements. Over time, the inner tie rod can wear out, causing a loose steering feel, uneven tire wear, and the dreaded steering wobble.

When to Replace the Inner Tie Rod

Several signs indicate that your inner tie rod needs replacement:

• Steering wheel wobble: This is the most obvious symptom and often occurs at higher speeds.
• Loose steering: You might feel a play or looseness in the steering wheel when turning.
• Uneven tire wear: Worn-out inner tie rods can cause uneven tire wear, typically on the outer edges.
• Clicking or clunking noise: You might hear clicking or clunking sounds when turning the steering wheel.

Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and materials:

• New inner tie rod: Make sure you order the correct inner tie rod for your specific Honda Civic model and year.
• Jack and jack stands: These are essential for safely lifting the vehicle.
• Lug wrench: This is needed to remove the lug nuts.
• Torque wrench: This is crucial for tightening the lug nuts and other components to the correct specifications.
• Socket set: You’ll need various sockets to loosen and tighten nuts and bolts.
• Wrench set: A combination of wrenches will be helpful for various tasks.
• Penetrating fluid: This can help loosen stubborn bolts.
• Safety glasses: Always protect your eyes.
• Gloves: These will protect your hands from dirt and grease.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Inner Tie Rod

1. Preparation:

• Park your Civic on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Use the jack to lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
• Remove the front wheel on the side where you’ll be replacing the inner tie rod.

2. Disconnect the Outer Tie Rod:

• Locate the outer tie rod end, which is connected to the steering knuckle.
• Use a wrench to loosen the castle nut that secures the outer tie rod end to the steering knuckle.
• Once the castle nut is loose, use a tie rod tool or a combination wrench to hold the outer tie rod end while you loosen the nut further.
• Once the nut is completely removed, you can pull the outer tie rod end off the steering knuckle.

3. Disconnect the Inner Tie Rod:

• Locate the inner tie rod end, which is connected to the steering rack.
• Use a wrench to loosen the castle nut that secures the inner tie rod end to the steering rack.
• Once the castle nut is loose, use a wrench to hold the inner tie rod end while you loosen the nut further.
• Once the nut is completely removed, you can pull the inner tie rod end off the steering rack.

4. Install the New Inner Tie Rod:

• Thread the new inner tie rod end onto the steering rack.
• Tighten the castle nut to the specified torque, ensuring the inner tie rod end is securely attached to the steering rack.
• Now, connect the new outer tie rod end to the steering knuckle.
• Tighten the castle nut on the outer tie rod end to the specified torque.

5. Re-attach the Wheel:

• Lower the vehicle using the jack.
• Replace the front wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque using a torque wrench.

6. Final Adjustments and Testing:

• Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock.
• If there is any play or looseness in the steering, you may need to adjust the tie rod ends.
• Once you’re satisfied with the steering feel, take your Civic for a test drive to ensure the new inner tie rod is functioning properly.

Post-Replacement Precautions

• After replacing the inner tie rod, it’s essential to have your wheel alignment checked by a professional. This ensures that your tires are properly aligned, preventing uneven wear and maximizing tire life.
• Keep an eye on your steering wheel for any unusual play or wobble. If you notice any issues, consult a mechanic immediately.

Steering Smoothly into the Future

Replacing the inner tie rod on your Honda Civic is a straightforward task that can significantly improve your driving experience. By following these steps and using the right tools, you can confidently tackle this repair and enjoy a smoother, more responsive steering feel.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: How often should I replace the inner tie rod?

A: There’s no set mileage or timeframe for replacing inner tie rods. However, it’s generally recommended to inspect them every 50,000 miles or if you notice any signs of wear.

Q: Can I replace the inner tie rod without replacing the outer tie rod?

A: While you can replace just the inner tie rod, it’s often recommended to replace both the inner and outer tie rods simultaneously. This ensures that both components are in good condition and prevents premature wear on the new inner tie rod.

Q: What happens if I don’t replace a worn-out inner tie rod?

A: Driving with a worn-out inner tie rod can lead to further damage to your steering system, potentially resulting in a loss of control. It can also cause uneven tire wear and lead to a more dangerous driving experience.

Q: Is it safe to drive my Civic with a worn-out inner tie rod?

A: It’s not advisable to drive your Civic with a worn-out inner tie rod. The steering may become loose and unpredictable, increasing the risk of an accident. It’s best to replace the inner tie rod as soon as you notice any signs of wear.

Q: How much does it cost to replace an inner tie rod?

A: The cost to replace an inner tie rod can vary depending on the specific Honda Civic model, labor costs, and the price of the new inner tie rod. However, you can often save money by doing it yourself.