Tie Rod Checks 1: Check For Bending Or Deflection Of Tie-Rod Shafts
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Visually inspect the ends of the tie-rod shafts
The tie-rod shafts should show no signs of bending or deflection anywhere along the length of the entire shaft (as in the two left-hand pictures above).
If there is evidence of bending or deflection anywhere along the length of the entire shaft the tie-rod should be replaced (the two right-hand pictures above show examples of shafts bent in the ball-joint area). If evidence of bending or deflection is noted, then the steering gear should be checked thoroughly for other symptoms that may have been induced by the impact (e.g.: Noisy or heavy steering). If further damage is noted, it may be necessary to replace the steering gear as part of the accident damage/abuse repair