Tie-Rod End Replacement

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 Mazda 3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the wheel and tire. (See WHEEL AND TIRE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
Remove the snap pin from the tie-rod end.

Fig 1: Snap Pin And Tie-Rod End
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Loosen the tie-rod end locknut.

Fig 2: Tie-Rod End And Locknut
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Detach the tie-rod end from the steering knuckle using the SST.

Fig 3: Detaching Tie-Rod End From Steering Knuckle Using SST
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the locknut from the tie-rod end.

Fig 4: Locknut And Tie-Rod End
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Place alignment marks as shown in the figure for proper installation.

Fig 5: Tie-Rod End Alignment Mark
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the tie-rod end.

Fig 6: Removing Tie-Rod End
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Place alignment marks on the new tie-rod end in the same positions as the removed tie-rod end.

Fig 7: Tie-Rod End Alignment Mark
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Align the alignment marks made before removing the tie-rod end, and then install a new tie-rod end to the tie rod.

Fig 8: Tie-Rod End And Tie Rod Alignment Mark With Torque Specifications
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- "R" is inscribed on the right side of the tie-rod end and "L" is inscribed on the left side of the tie-rod end. Verify if the part is for the left or right side before installation because the left and right parts of the tie-rod end have different shapes.
Fig 9: Tie-Rod End Right And Left Mark
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
- If there are no alignment marks, go to the following procedure.
Adjust dimension A shown in the figure to the standard, and assemble.

Fig 10: Tie-Rod End Dimension Adjustment
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Standard

8.4-21.4 mm {0.34-0.84 in}
Install the tie-rod end to the steering knuckle.

Fig 11: Snap Pin, Tie-Rod End With Torque Specifications
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Install a new snap pin to the tie-rod end.
Install the wheel and tire. (See WHEEL AND TIRE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
After installation, inspect the front wheel alignment and adjust it if necessary. (See FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT .)