A tie rod replacement runs $80 to $240 per tie rod at most shops. Outer tie rods are cheaper and easier; inner tie rods take more labor. An alignment is required after - budget another $80-$120. Here is the full picture.
Most drivers pay $120 to $180 per outer tie rod plus an alignment at an independent shop.
Outer tie rods are simple bolt-on. Inner tie rods need a special socket and more time.
Almost always required after - some shops include it, most charge separately.
Trucks have heavier-duty rods that cost more.
Seized jam nuts can add 30 minutes of labor or more.
Indie shop with their own alignment rack is the cheapest combo.
| Vehicle | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Compact car (outer) | $80 - $150 | with alignment |
| Midsize sedan (outer) | $100 - $180 | with alignment |
| SUV / pickup (outer) | $130 - $240 | with alignment |
| Inner tie rod (any class) | $160 - $320 | with alignment |
| Both sides + alignment | $250 - $500 | recommended pair |
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Looseness in the steering, clunking over bumps, uneven tire wear (often inner edge), or wandering at highway speeds.
Briefly, to get to a shop. A failed tie rod can lose steering control - it is not a "drive on it for weeks" repair.
Yes - always. Replacing the rod changes toe-in. Skipping alignment chews up tires fast.
Typically 80,000-150,000 miles. Rough roads and potholes shorten that. They wear gradually, not suddenly.
Only if both are worn. Unlike pads, tie rods do not need to be paired - replace what fails.