Tie rod replacement

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2004 Porsche Boxster, 2003 Porsche Boxster, 2002 Porsche Boxster, 2001 Porsche Boxster, and 2000 Porsche Boxster. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Only tie rods with harder rubber mounts (optimised tie rods with spherical mounts) - version (B) - are still available from the Parts Service. Introduction of the optimised tie rods in the current model year 1999 (X) in some cases, but generally from model year 2000 (Y).

Part No. of the optimised tie rod: 996.331.045.10. These tie rods may be retrofitted - but only in pairs.

In general, the following applies: Only tie rods (toe control arms) of the same version - A or B - may be installed in a vehicle. In the case of replacement, replace both tie rods if necessary (install version B).

Visual distinguishing characteristics between tie rod versions A and B:

The cast number (refer to Fig 1 and text below it).
The metal bushing of the rubber mount. On version A, the metal bushing of the rubber mount is flush with the tie rod. On version B, the metal bushing of the rubber mount projects slightly - by approx. 1 mm - at both sides (arrow).

Fig 1: Identifying Tie Rods (2 Of 2)

Courtesy of PORSCHE OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tie rods without spherical mount
Part No. 996.331.045.06 / 07 / 08

Cast No. 996.331.245.06 / 07 / 08
Tie rods with the spherical mount (optimised tie rods with harder rubber mount)
Part No. 996.331.045.10

Cast No. * 996.331.245.10 (current) or

Cast No. * 996.331.245.08 3 (the 3 was stamped at the end of the cast number in order to distinguish it (arrow) and was additionally provided with a blue dot in this area). On tie rod version B, the metal bushing of the rubber mount projects slightly - by approx. 1 mm - at both sides (arrow).