The steering tie rod end is a vital component of your steering system, enabling the wheels to turn by transmitting power from your steering link or rack gear to your steering knuckle. The outer tie rod end connects with an adjusting sleeve, which allows the length of the tie rod to be adjusted to set the vehicle’s alignment angle. Check your tie rod assembly once a year and look for uneven tire wear and any breakdown in the steering system. The most important part of the tie rod end is the ball joint that allows the angle to change while maintaining a mechanical connection. If the ball joint is ignored too long, you can create an unsafe situation with wandering steering, poor alignment, and even a serious accident if the tie rod end were to break.