How to Replace Front Outer Tie Rod Ends 02-06 Nissan Altima

Difficulty: Advanced · About 45 min · Nissan Altima

Replace both front outer tie rod ends on a 2002-2006 Nissan Altima.

Steps

1. Remove the wheel

   Loosen the 21mm lug nuts with the car on the ground, raise and support it, then remove the lug nuts and wheel.

2. Remove the old outer tie rod

   Straighten and remove the cotter pin from the castle nut with pliers, loosen the 18mm castle nut to the end of its splines, loosen the 22mm lock nut a few turns and mark its position with tape, remove the castle nut, pull the tie rod out of the knuckle with a tie rod puller, then twist it off by hand.

3. Install the new outer tie rod

   Twist it on, push it into the knuckle, tighten the 22mm lock nut back to your taped mark, fasten the 18mm castle nut, push a new cotter pin through it, then bend the pin's ends with pliers.

4. Reattach the wheel

   Slide it on, start the lug nuts by hand, lower the car, then torque the lug nuts to about 73-86 ft-lb in a star pattern.

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