Tie Rod: Removing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle, 2015 Volkswagen Beetle, 2014 Volkswagen Beetle, and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

-- Turn steering wheel into straight ahead position.

-- Loosen the wheel bolts.

-- Raise the vehicle.

-- Remove the wheel.

-- Clean outside of steering gear in area of bellows.

-- Loosen nut of track rod ball joint, but do not unscrew yet.

Fig 1: Identifying Nut Of Track Rod Ball Joint

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

CAUTION: To protect thread, screw nut on pin a few turns.

-- Open the clamps and push back boot.

-- Remove tie rod.

Fig 2: Loosening/Tightening Tie Rod

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

Open-Jaw Torque Wrench Insert VAG1923
Torque Wrench 40-200 Nm VAG1332

NOTE:

If corrosion, damage, wear-out or first signs of soiling on steering rack can be seen, complete steering gear must be replaced.

If no grease film is visible on steering rack, steering gear must also be replaced completely.