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.

DS

DS is the premium automobile marque of the Groupe PSA. First announced in 2009 by Citroën as its premium sub-brand; it was suggested to be an abbreviation of different spirit or distinctive series. However, in French, the name is considered a play on words, as the translation of déesse becomes goddess in English.

How popular is DS in the United Kingdom?

As a newcomer to the UK market in its own right, there were around 35k DS cars on the roads in the UK by the end of 2018. Whether those figures will continue to rise at the same rate shown since their introduction in 2015, only time will tell.

Looking to provide a standalone marque to initially compete with brands such as Volkswagen and Audi, PSA decided that neither Citroën nor Peugeot would be able to carry the brand strength that would be able to make a serious threat in the market with an elevated price-point at the level of quality and luxury they set out to achieve.

DS: Establishing a new range of upmarket models

To compete with the likes of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, DS introduced a range of hatchbacks, saloons and SUVs but it’s undoubtedly their supermini city car that is proving the most popular.

The DS3, sold as a 3-door hatchback or a convertible, is available in countless customisation options and also as the subcompact luxury crossover SUV DS3 Crossback. The DS3 was voted Car of the Year by Top Gear Magazine, and first place supermini four times in a row in the JD Power Satisfaction UK Survey.

DS: Don’t be fooled into thinking they’re just a one trick pony

At the other end of the range you’ll find the DS7 Crossback. Here’s a large SUV designed to compete directly with the Audi Q5, the BMW X3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC; that’s quite a jump for a car that’s built by Citroën.

The models that you’ll find between the DS3 and the DS7 are created with the same style for the market in mind. The DS4, a mixture of hatchback and SUV, and the DS5, a bigger hatchback priced and pitched against the Audi A4, the BMW 3 Series and the Mercedes C-Class saloons.

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.