Revolutionary Technique: How to Remove Subaru Tie Rod Easily

If you’re experiencing a shaky steering wheel, uneven tire wear, or a strange pulling sensation while driving, your Subaru’s tie rod might be the culprit. This crucial component connects your steering rack to your wheels, ensuring smooth and precise steering. But when it wears out or gets damaged, it can lead to a whole host of driving issues.

This guide will walk you through the process of how to remove Subaru tie rod, providing you with the necessary steps and precautions to ensure a safe and successful repair. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to tackle this essential maintenance task.

Why You Might Need to Remove a Subaru Tie Rod

Before diving into the removal process, it’s crucial to understand why you might need to remove your Subaru’s tie rod in the first place. Here are some common reasons:

• Worn Tie Rod Ends: The tie rod ends are the points where the tie rod connects to the steering knuckle. Over time, these ends can wear out, causing loose steering and excessive play.

• Damaged Tie Rod: Impacts, potholes, or other road hazards can damage the tie rod itself, leading to a loss of steering control.

• Steering Rack Replacement: If your steering rack needs replacement, you’ll need to remove the tie rods to access the rack.

• Suspension Upgrades: When upgrading your suspension components, you might need to remove the tie rods to install new parts.

Safety First: Essential Precautions

Before you begin tackling your Subaru’s tie rod, prioritize safety. Here are some crucial precautions to keep in mind:

• Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your Subaru is parked on a firm and level surface to prevent it from rolling during the removal process.

• Engage the Parking Brake: Always engage the parking brake to secure the vehicle and prevent accidental movement.

• Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to provide additional stability and prevent the vehicle from rolling.

• Wear Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.

• Use Proper Tools: Invest in quality tools that are appropriate for the task at hand.

• Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Consult your Subaru’s service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following tools:

• Jack and Jack Stands: To lift the vehicle safely.

• Lug Wrench: To remove the wheel.

• Breaker Bar: To loosen the tie rod end nut.

• Socket Set: To remove and install the tie rod end nut.

• Wrench: To hold the tie rod end while loosening the nut.

• Penetrating Oil: To loosen any rusted or seized fasteners.

• Torque Wrench: To tighten the fasteners to the correct specifications.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove Subaru Tie Rod

Now, let’s break down the process of removing your Subaru’s tie rod step-by-step:

1. Raise the Vehicle: Using your jack, safely raise the vehicle and place it on jack stands to provide a stable working platform.

2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts with your lug wrench and remove the wheel.

3. Locate the Tie Rod End: The tie rod end is located on the steering knuckle, connected to the tie rod.

4. Loosen the Tie Rod End Nut: Use your breaker bar and socket to loosen the tie rod end nut. You may need to use a wrench to hold the tie rod end in place while loosening the nut.

5. Disconnect the Tie Rod End: Once the tie rod end nut is loose, you can carefully remove the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.

6. Remove the Tie Rod: With the tie rod end disconnected, you can now remove the tie rod from the steering rack. This will usually involve unbolting the tie rod from the rack.

7. Inspect the Tie Rod: Carefully inspect the removed tie rod for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion.

Reinstalling the Tie Rod

Once you’ve replaced the tie rod with a new one, you need to reinstall it. Follow these steps:

1. Connect the Tie Rod End: Align the new tie rod end with the steering knuckle and thread the nut onto the tie rod end.

2. Tighten the Tie Rod End Nut: Tighten the tie rod end nut to the correct torque specification as specified in your Subaru’s service manual.

3. Reconnect the Tie Rod: Securely bolt the tie rod back onto the steering rack.

4. Lower the Vehicle: Lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove the jack stands.

5. Replace the Wheel: Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque specification.

The Road Ahead: Important Considerations

After removing and reinstalling the tie rod, it’s crucial to have your vehicle’s alignment checked by a professional. This ensures that your wheels are properly aligned, preventing uneven tire wear and ensuring optimal steering performance.

Beyond the Basics: When to Seek Professional Help

While this guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to remove a Subaru tie rod, it’s essential to understand when you should seek professional assistance. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, or if you encounter any difficulties, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic.

Information You Need to Know

Q: How often should I replace my Subaru’s tie rod?

A: There’s no set mileage or time frame for replacing a tie rod. It depends on driving conditions, wear and tear, and the quality of the tie rod itself. Regular inspections and professional advice can help you determine when it’s time for a replacement.

Q: Can I use a universal tie rod on my Subaru?

A: While some universal tie rods might fit, it’s always best to use a tie rod specifically designed for your Subaru model. This ensures compatibility and optimal performance.

Q: What are the signs of a bad tie rod?

A: Common signs include:

• Shaky or loose steering wheel
• Uneven tire wear
• A pulling sensation while driving
• Clicking or clunking noises when turning the steering wheel
• Visible damage or corrosion on the tie rod or tie rod ends

Q: How much does it cost to replace a Subaru tie rod?

A: The cost of replacing a Subaru tie rod varies depending on the model, labor costs, and the cost of the replacement part. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $400 for the entire repair.

Q: Can I adjust the tie rod to fix a steering problem?

A: While you can adjust the tie rod, it’s not a recommended DIY fix for steering issues. Incorrect adjustment can lead to further problems and potentially compromise your safety. It’s best to have a professional mechanic diagnose and address any steering problems.

By following this guide and understanding the potential issues involved, you can confidently tackle your Subaru’s tie rod removal and replacement. Always prioritize safety and seek professional help when needed. Enjoy a smooth and trouble-free ride!