Center Link/Drag Link

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the center link (intermediate steering shaft) on a 2015 Kia Forte with 1.8L engine, connecting the steering column to the steering rack.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Center link/intermediate steering shaft × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cotter pins × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake firmly
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Turn steering wheel to center position and lock with steering wheel lock or tape to prevent rotation
4. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack and support on jack stands at manufacturer-specified lift points
5. Remove both front wheels
6. Spray all steering linkage fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the center link assembly
   From underneath the vehicle, locate the center link (intermediate steering shaft) that connects from the steering rack to the inner tie rods. Clean the area around all connection points with a wire brush to remove dirt and corrosion.
2. 2

   Remove steering rack protective cover
   If equipped, remove the steering rack protective cover or dust shield by removing the cover screws. This will provide access to the center link mounting points. Set cover and hardware aside for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Disconnect center link from tie rods
   Locate the castle nuts securing the center link to the inner tie rod ends on both sides. Use pliers to straighten and remove the cotter pins from the castle nuts. Discard the old cotter pins. Remove the castle nuts while holding the tie rod stud with another wrench if necessary to prevent spinning.
   ⚠Castle nuts must be replaced with new cotter pins upon reassembly. Never reuse old cotter pins.
4. 4

   Separate center link ball joints
   Using a pickle fork or tie rod separator tool, carefully separate the center link ball joint studs from the tie rod assemblies on both sides. Insert the tool between the components and tap with a hammer until the taper breaks free. Avoid damaging the tie rod boot or threads.
   ⚠Do not strike the tie rod ends directly with a hammer as this can damage the internal components.
5. 5

   Remove center link mounting bolts
   Locate the mounting bolts that secure the center link to the steering rack or crossmember. Remove these mounting bolts completely. Support the center link while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
6. 6

   Remove center link assembly
   Carefully maneuver the center link assembly out from its mounting position. It may be necessary to rotate or angle the component to clear surrounding parts. Note the orientation and position for proper installation of the replacement part.
7. 7

   Inspect related components
   With the center link removed, inspect the steering rack boots, tie rod ends, and mounting points for wear, damage, or leaking grease. Check for any play in tie rod ball joints. Replace any worn components as needed before proceeding.
8. 8

   Install new center link
   Position the new center link assembly into place, ensuring proper orientation matches the original installation. Align the mounting bolt holes with the steering rack or crossmember. Install the mounting bolts finger-tight initially.
9. 9

   Torque center link mounting bolts
   Using a torque wrench, tighten the center link mounting bolts to the specified torque in a cross pattern if multiple bolts are present. Ensure the center link sits flush against its mounting surface.
10. 10

    Connect center link to tie rods
    Align the center link ball joint studs with the tie rod taper holes on both sides. Press the studs into place ensuring they are fully seated in the tapered holes. Install the castle nuts and tighten to specification.
11. 11

    Install new cotter pins
    Insert new cotter pins through the castle nut slots and tie rod stud holes. If the castle nut slots do not align with the stud hole, tighten the nut slightly (never loosen) until the next slot aligns. Bend the cotter pin ends to secure properly.
    ⚠Always use new cotter pins. Ensure cotter pins are properly bent to prevent them from backing out during operation.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering rack cover
    If removed earlier, reinstall the steering rack protective cover or dust shield. Install and torque the cover screws to specification. Ensure the cover does not interfere with steering movement.
13. 13

    Reinstall wheels and lower vehicle
    Reinstall both front wheels onto the hubs. Install lug nuts and tighten in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle until the wheels just contact the ground, then torque the lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Fully lower the vehicle and remove jack stands.

Reassembly

1. Verify all fasteners are torqued to specification and all cotter pins are properly installed and secured
2. Remove steering wheel lock or tape and verify steering wheel returns to center position
3. Double-check that no tools or parts were left in the engine bay or under the vehicle

Verification

• Start the engine and turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock while stationary, listening for any unusual noises or binding
• Check for any fluid leaks around the steering rack area
• Test drive the vehicle at low speed in a safe area, verifying proper steering response and no unusual vibrations or noises
• Schedule a professional front-end alignment as soon as possible to ensure proper tire wear and handling
• Recheck all torque specifications and cotter pin security after test drive

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