How to Replace a Tie Rod in a Honda CR-V

Replacing the tie rod in your Honda CR-V becomes necessary when the steering is off, or the SUV just won't track straight. This is probably due to your tie rod becoming bent or damaged. After you replace the tie rod and get your CR-V aligned, you'll feel the difference.

Things You'll Need

• Lug nut wrench
• Jack and jack stands
• Wrenches
• Paint or marker
• Pen and paper
• Tie rods
• Torque wrench

Instructions

1. Buy tie rods that are specific to your Honda CR-V. As these can vary from model year to model year, make sure you get the right ones.

2. Loosen and take out the bolt that connects the tie rod to the steering rack. Mark the position if the tie rod in the rod adjuster with paint or a marker, then loosen the nut that secures it.

3. Unscrew the tie rod, and keep track of the number of turns it takes. Write that number down.

4. Lay the new and old tie rods side by side, and transfer the marks from the old onto the new. Screw on the new tie rod, then tighten the nut to 14 foot pounds.

5. Put the other end of the tie rod into the steering rack, insert the new bolt, and tighten it.

6. Repeat the steps for the other tie rod, then put back on the tires, tightening the lug nuts to 80 foot pounds. Get your Honda CR-V aligned.

Resources

• Auto Parts Warehouse has tie rods for the CR-V.
• JC Whitney has toe rods for the CR-V.