BMW 3-Series Replace Outer Tie Rod DIY

This guide provides instructions on changing the outer tie rod on a BMW 3-Series (2004 to 2013).

Follow the step-by-step instructions below to learn how to replace tie rods on BMW 3-Series manufactured from 2004 to 2013. This guide applies to BMW E90, E91, E92, and E93.

Symptoms

• Loose steering
• Steering wheel shaking when hitting bumps
• Noise such as clunking or knocking
• The car pulls to one side due to an alignment issue
• Steering Wheel Vibrations

What you will need

• BMW 3-Series Outer Tie Rod
• Tie Rod Removal Tool
• Mechanic Toolset Metric
• Jack and Stands

Procedure

• Park your BMW 3-Series on a flat surface. Place the shifter in the park and engage the parking brake.
• Before raising the BMW, you need to break loose the lug nuts.
• Raise the vehicle, and remove the wheels. Jack up the car and remove the front wheel. First, start by securing at least one of the tires of your 3-Series. Next, jack up the car using a floor jack. Place a jack stand to support the vehicle.

Locate the out-tie rod. Here is a picture of the tie rod on the 2004 to 2013 BMW 3-Series.

Remove the castle nut from the steering knuckle of your BMW 3-Series if the threads are rusted, use a wire brush to clean the threads. Apply penetrating oil and allow it to soak. Counter hold the tie rod end, or the castle nut will just sping and refuse to come out.

Remove the lock bolt. Use a wrench to loosen up the bolt that secures the outer tie rod to the inner tie rod.

Mark the inner tie rod. Use a marker or chalk to mark the threads at the end of the outer tie rod. This will help with keeping the alignment as close to stock as possible.

Separate tie rod. Use a tie rod puller or separator to disconnect the tie rod from the steering knuckle. Do not use a fork if you plan on reusing the same tie rod because a fork will damage the boot.

Remove the old tie rod by turning it counterclockwise several times. The inner tie rod has many threads, which can take a while.

Install the new tie rod in reverse order. Torque the castle and jam nut to specification.

Take your car to an alignment shop to have your front wheels aligned.

Changing the tie rod on your BMW 3-Series is easy and requires basic tools. The typical cost to change the BMW 3-Series tie rod is between $360 and $580 at an auto repair shop or BMW dealer.

You can save money by replacing the tie rod yourself. Front-wheel alignment is required after changing the BMW 3-Series tie rod. To replace the tie rod on your BMW, plan on about one to two hours. New tie rods for BMW 3-Series cost between $50 to $80 when purchased online.

Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your BMW.

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