Kia Optima Tie Rod Replacement DIY

Does your Kia Optima have a squealing sound when turning, and the tire wear is uneven due to a faulty tie rod? Learn how to fix the problem by replacing the tie rod of your Kia Optima. This is a step-by-step instruction on replacing the tie rod on a 2016-2020 Kia Optima.

What you will need

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• Floor Jack
• Jack stands
• Wheel chocks
• Tire rod or breaker bar
• 24mm wrench
• 14mm wrench
• Tie rod (Kia Optima)

Procedure

1. Park the vehicle on a flat surface and loosen the lug nuts of the front wheel.
2. Jack up the vehicle on the jack points below the front door and remove the front wheel. Support the vehicle with jack stands and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
3. Turn the vehicle to the left to have better access to the tie rod on the back of the rotor.
4. Spray penetrating on the tie rod.
5. Turn the 24mm nut and get it loose.
6. Remove the cotter pin above the 14mm bolt and loosen the bolt using a 14mm wrench.
7. Use a hamper or clamp to push the tie rod out and remove the 14mm nut.
8. Once the tie rod drops down, turn it to disconnect it from the inner tie rod.
9. Get the new tie rod and spin it back to the 24mm nut. 
10. Spin the tie rod back to the 24mm nut and install the new 14mm nut into the tie rod. Then insert the new cotter pin into the tie rod.Torque Specification: 29.4 – 34.3N.m (21.7 – 25.7lb-ft)
11. Tighten the 24mm nut back in its place.
12. Reinstall the wheel and test drive the vehicle.
13. Have a repair shop perform front wheel alignment.

We hope you find the Kia Optima Tie Rod Replacement DIY guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Kia.