What does a track rod end do?

A track rod is made up of two rods – an inner and an outer track rod. The inner rod is attached to the steering rack and pinion, while the outer rod is attached to the steering knuckle.

A track rod end is a small, flexible ball joint which sits on the end of the tie rods, connecting them to the steering rack and front wheel steering knuckle. They swivel and allow the steering system to move efficiently and keep the rack and pinion system in good condition.

Even though a track rod end is a very small piece of the car, it is an essential part of the steering system and could cause major issues if broken.

Audi

Audi AG is a German automobile manufacturer, established over 100 years ago in April 1910, and has been owned by the Volkswagen Group since the 1960s.

How popular is Audi in the United Kingdom?

This marque design and engineer luxury vehicles and distributes them worldwide. In the UK alone, there were over 1.7m Audi vehicles on the roads in the final quarter of 2018; a number that is continually growing year after year, and has more than doubled in the past decade.

Audi’s success can be attributed to its ability to move with the times, retaining its reputation as a prestige manufacturer and as part of the ‘big 3’ German marques responsible for high sales throughout the world market, alongside Mercedes and BMW.

Luxury executive vehicles for every type of driver

Audi’s current range features predominantly luxury executive and family cars of varying sizes: with compact to full-size saloons, coupés and sportback models, complemented by a growing range of SUV and sports car models.

Vorsprung durch Technik

The Audi brand is easily recognisable by their 4-ring logo—originally representing the four car companies to create Audi’s predecessor company, Auto Union—and their world famous slogan that ran for over 30 years, translated as ‘Being ahead through technology’. Despite no longer being used in their mainstream marketing, the meaning behind it still stands true of the brand today.

Audi: A sensation in rallying motorsport

Throughout the 1980s the Audi Quattro was famous for dominating rallying worldwide. The introduction of their four-wheel drive turbocharged model went on to win the World Rally Championships in both 1983 and 1984 and amassed a number of podium finishes and titles throughout the decade, all across the globe.

Audi’s reliability and reputation

Audi ranked 20th place out of 30 car brands in the What Car? Reliability Survey in 2018. Audi’s reputation for creating reliable running vehicles has steadily improved over time to become a strong contender to some of the Asian brands that have continued to dominate in this area.

How often should a track rod end need replacing?

There's no set time frame for track rod end replacement. They will wear like all parts, but their lifespan is affected by how well you drive. Like most car parts, the smoother you drive, the better - this is particularly true for track rod ends!

Even though there's no replacement interval, your track rod ends are checked as part of your MOT test. And watch out because bad track rod ends are a common MOT failure!

What happens when we do a track rod end replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Safely raise the vehicle and remove the road wheel

• They will then undo the component from the steering knuckle and tie rod

• A new track rod end will be fitted

• The wheel will be put back on and the mechanic will test drive your car to ensure the parts are working and fitted correctly

What causes a track rod end to break?

Like any part in constant use, track rod ends can break due to wear over time. They can also wear out due to impact, such as constant use on bumpy roads or a nasty speed bump.

When should a track rod end be replaced?

There's no set time frame for track rod end replacement. They will wear like all parts, but their lifespan is affected by how well you drive. Like most car parts, the smoother you drive, the better - this is particularly true for track rod ends!

Even though there's no replacement interval, your track rod ends are checked as part of your MOT test. And watch out because bad track rod ends are a common MOT failure!

What are the signs of a failing track rod end?

Usually, there a few signs you can look for:

• Vibrations in the steering wheel

• If your steering is not as precise as usual

• Knocking when you drive over bumps or when changing direction

• Uneven or premature tyre wear

What happens when we do a track rod end replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Safely raise the vehicle and remove the road wheel

• They will then undo the component from the steering knuckle and tie rod

• A new track rod end will be fitted

• The wheel will be put back on and the mechanic will test drive your car to ensure the parts are working and fitted correctly

Can you drive with a broken track rod end?

Usually if the track rod end is worn you can continue driving. However, if it is completely broken you should avoid driving your car as the steering will be seriously compromised. If you experience any of the above symptoms you should have your steering system looked at to ensure your car remains safe and roadworthy.

What happens if you don't change a bad track rod end?

Failing to change a broken or faulty track rod will result in unreliable and inaccurate steering. This can obviously be very dangerous especially when changing direction and when driving at high speeds. We recommend having your track rod ends replaced as soon as you suspect an issue.

The law, vehicle regulations and your MOT

Your track rod ends are checked as part of your MOT test. That way, you’ll have an annual update on their condition. It’s important that you don’t ignore any advice given in your MOT advisory notes. Worn or broken track rod ends count as an MOT failure, so make sure you keep them in good condition!

It goes without saying that keeping your whole steering system in tip-top condition is essential. If you’re not in control of where the car is going, you could end up in a dangerous situation on the roads.