Tie Rod: Service and Repair

Tie rods, removing and installing
Special tools required
VAG 1923

Note:
^ Left and right-hand tie rods are identical.
^ Tie rods can be removed and installed with the steering gear installed.
^ On vehicles with 5 valve engines, air cleaner and intake pipe must be removed.
^ To remove the left tie rod on vehicles with 4-cyl. engine also remove the heat shield.

Removing
- Remove nut -2- and screws -3-.





- Remove heat shield -1-.
- Remove front wheel.





- Remove nut -1-.
- Pry out clips -2-.
- Remove tie rod cover.





- Open clips on boot.
Illustration shows tie rod for vehicles with 6-cyl. engine.
On vehicles with 4-cyl. engine, open clip on steering gear.





- Loosen bolts -3- and -4- and pull tie rod ball joint off downward.
- Pull boot outward as far as possible.





- Unscrew tie rod with VAG 1923 or equivalent.

Installing
Install in reverse order of removal and note the following:
- If necessary, check wheel alignment.