How to Replace a Tie Rod in a VW Jetta
The tie rod, because of its role in the integration of the steering knuckle and the wheels, can affect the steering of the VW Jetta when it becomes damaged or bent. The good news is that replacing the tie rod can be done by an amateur mechanic.
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Things You'll Need
- Lug nut wrench
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Plug for fluid line
- Rag
- Hose clamp pliers
- Wrench
- Tie rod
- Torque wrench
Instructions
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Remove Tie Rod
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1
Buy tie rods that are specific for the VW Jetta. As these vary from model year to model year, it's important to get the right ones.
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2
Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels and jack up the Jetta. Secure the car on jack stands, and remove the wheels.
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3
Cap or plug the power steering gear's fluid line, then clean the outside of the power steering gear--especially the boot. Loosen the clamp enough so you can slide the boot back.
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4
Use hole "5" and the upper hole located on the transmission support when you tighten the power steering gear. Unscrew the tie rod off of the connecting rod, keeping track of the number of turns it takes. Write that number down.
Replace Tie Rod
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5
Screw in the tie rod to the steering gear, doing the same number of turns as in Section One, Step 4. Tighten the tie rod to 55 foot pounds.
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6
Examine the boot for the tie rod. Make sure that the sealing surfaces are intact, and, if necessary, replace it if it shows signs of wear.
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7
Install the boot, turning the tie rod so the shank is in the proper position (the tie rod is marked).
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8
Repeat Sections 1 and 2 for the other tie rod, and reattach the steering gear line. Reinstall the tires, tightening the lug nuts to 89 foot pounds. Get your Jetta aligned.
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