Standard Procedure - Checking Tie Rod Ends
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Jeep Wrangler and 2015 Jeep Wrangler. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Tie rod free-play can be measured using the following hand methods:
NOTE:
When checking free-play, DO NOT rotate the tie rod. Just because a tie rod rotates easily, it is not necessarily faulty.
NOTE:
Always check and repair (if necessary) outer tie rod free-play before checking inner tie rod free-play. False results can otherwise be obtained.
Grasp the outer tie rod near the ball stud and attempt to move the tie rod straight up and down. If any free-play is felt, replace the outer tie rod. Refer to END, TIE ROD, REMOVAL . If no free-play is felt at the outer tie rod, attempt to move the inner tie rod in the same manner. Refer to the following procedure.