How to Replace Outer Tie Rods 07-10 Hyundai Elantra
Difficulty: Advanced · About 60 min · Hyundai Elantra
Replace both outer tie rods on a 2007-2010 Hyundai Elantra.
Tools you will need
- Socket extensions
- Torque wrench
- 14mm socket
- Hammer
- Rust penetrant
- Pry bar
- 17mm socket
- 21mm socket
- Pickle fork
- Large locking pliers
- 22mm wrench
- Anti-seize grease
- Ratchet
- Breaker bar
Parts and supplies
- Outer tie rod
Steps
- Remove the wheel
Raise the car with minimal weight on the tire, loosen the five 21mm lug nuts, raise and support it fully, then remove the lug nuts, hubcap and wheel.
- Remove the old outer tie rod
Remove the brake caliper's two 14mm slider bolts and secure the caliper out of the way, loosen the 22mm jam nut, pull the cotter pin from the tie rod ball joint, remove the 17mm castle nut, hammer on the knuckle or use a pickle fork to separate the ball joint, then remove the tie rod — counting the turns it takes to come off, or leaving the knuckle untouched, to help you match it on reinstall.
- Install the new outer tie rod
Thread the jam nut onto the inner tie rod, thread the new outer tie rod on to the same length as the old one, insert the ball joint into the knuckle, install the castle nut and torque it to about 25 ft-lb (tightening further if needed to align the cotter pin hole), insert and bend over a new cotter pin, tighten the jam nut, then refit the caliper and torque its two 14mm slider bolts to about 23 ft-lb.
- Reinstall the wheel
Slide the wheel onto the studs, refit the hubcap, tighten the lug nuts by hand, lower the car with minimal weight on it, torque the lug nuts to about 80 ft-lb in a star pattern, then lower it the rest of the way.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.