How to Replace Front Inner Tie Rod 11-13 Hyundai Sonata

Difficulty: Advanced · About 120 min · Hyundai Sonata

Replace the inner tie rod on a 2011–13 Hyundai Sonata, transferring the boot and outer end carefully and arranging a wheel alignment afterward.

Steps

1. Raise and remove the wheel

   Loosen the lug nuts, raise the front, and support it securely. Remove the wheel and turn the steering to provide clear access to the tie rod.

2. Remove the outer tie rod

   Loosen the jam nut and remove the cotter pin and castle nut. Separate the outer tie rod from the knuckle and count its turns as it comes off the inner rod.

3. Remove the boot and inner rod

   Release the boot clamps and slide the boot off without tearing it. Use an inner tie rod tool to loosen the inner joint from the steering rack, then remove it.

4. Install the new inner tie rod

   Apply the specified thread locker and thread the new joint into the rack. Tighten it with the removal tool to the service specification, then reinstall the boot and secure both clamps.

5. Reconnect the outer tie rod

   Install the jam nut and thread the outer end back on using the counted turns as an initial setting. Seat its stud in the knuckle and secure it with the castle nut and a new cotter pin.

6. Reinstall the wheel and align

   Reconnect the brake caliper if it was moved, torque fasteners to specification, and reinstall the wheel. Arrange a professional alignment before normal driving.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.