Tie Rod End - Inner

Replace the inner tie rod end on a 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo RWD, requiring removal of the outer tie rod and access to the steering rack boot area.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Inner tie rod end × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Outer tie rod end lock nut × 1 — Use OEM specification or reuse if condition allows
• Cotter pin for outer tie rod × 1 — Standard size per Maserati specification
• Steering rack boot/bellows × 1 — Inspect and replace if damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Loosen wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground
3. Raise front of vehicle and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer-designated lift points
4. Remove wheel on side being serviced
5. Turn steering wheel to full lock opposite the side being serviced to improve access
6. Apply penetrating oil to tie rod threads and lock nut, allow to soak 10-15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark tie rod position for alignment reference
   Using a marker or paint pen, mark the position of the outer tie rod end relative to the inner tie rod threads. Measure and record the exposed thread length from the lock nut to the outer tie rod end. This helps restore approximate toe setting during reassembly.
2. 2

   Remove outer tie rod end cotter pin and nut
   Straighten and remove the cotter pin from the outer tie rod end castle nut using a punch and hammer. Remove the castle nut using a 24mm socket. Do not reuse the cotter pin.
3. 3

   Separate outer tie rod end from knuckle
   Using a tie rod end separator or pickle fork, separate the outer tie rod end taper from the steering knuckle. Avoid damaging the knuckle or ball joint boot. Once separated, support the tie rod assembly to prevent stress on the steering rack.
   ⚠Do not strike the tie rod end directly with a hammer as this can damage internal components.
4. 4

   Loosen and remove tie rod lock nut
   Using a 21mm wrench, loosen the lock nut securing the outer tie rod to the inner tie rod. Count and record the number of turns required to remove the outer tie rod end. Unscrew the outer tie rod end completely from the inner tie rod and set aside.
5. 5

   Remove or fold back steering rack boot
   Locate the steering rack boot clamps at the inner tie rod connection point. Carefully remove or loosen the boot clamps using pliers or a clamp tool. Fold back the boot to expose the inner tie rod connection to the steering rack. Inspect the boot for tears or damage.
   ⚠Handle the boot carefully to avoid tearing. Replacement is required if damaged.
6. 6

   Remove inner tie rod end from steering rack
   Using an inner tie rod removal tool, engage the flats on the inner tie rod end housing. Counter-hold the steering rack if necessary to prevent rotation. Unscrew the inner tie rod end counterclockwise to remove it from the steering rack. Note the thread engagement depth for installation reference.
   ⚠Do not use excessive force that could damage the steering rack threads. If inner tie rod is seized, apply additional penetrating oil and allow to soak.
7. 7

   Clean and inspect steering rack threads
   Use a wire brush to clean the threads on the steering rack where the inner tie rod mounts. Inspect threads for damage, stripping, or corrosion. Check the rack boot for any contamination or damage that would require replacement. Ensure the area is clean and dry.
8. 8

   Install new inner tie rod end
   Thread the new inner tie rod end onto the steering rack by hand, ensuring it threads smoothly without cross-threading. Continue threading until it reaches the same depth as the original (compare thread engagement). Use the inner tie rod tool to tighten the inner tie rod end to the steering rack. Tighten to specification using a torque wrench if the tool allows torque measurement, or tighten firmly per manufacturer procedure.
   ⚠Ensure inner tie rod is fully seated and tightened. Insufficient tightening can cause steering looseness and potential failure.
9. 9

   Reinstall steering rack boot
   Reposition the steering rack boot over the inner tie rod connection, ensuring it is properly seated in the grooves on both the rack housing and inner tie rod. Install new boot clamps or reuse existing clamps, tightening securely to prevent moisture and contaminant entry. Verify the boot is not twisted or pinched.
10. 10

    Install outer tie rod end to inner tie rod
    Thread the outer tie rod end onto the new inner tie rod end using the same number of turns recorded during disassembly, or align with the reference marks made earlier. This provides an approximate toe setting. Do not tighten the lock nut yet.
11. 11

    Connect outer tie rod end to steering knuckle
    Insert the outer tie rod end taper into the steering knuckle. Install the castle nut and tighten to specification. Ensure the cotter pin holes align. If necessary, tighten slightly additional (never loosen) until the next castle slot aligns with the cotter pin hole. Install a new cotter pin and bend the ends to secure.
    Torque spec

    Tie Rod End Nut57 Nm (42 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Tighten tie rod lock nut (preliminary)
    Using a 21mm wrench, tighten the lock nut between the inner and outer tie rod ends to hold the adjustment temporarily. This should be snug but will be torqued to final specification only after wheel alignment is completed.
    ℹ️Final torque specification for the lock nut is 71 Nm (53 lb-ft) and must be applied after professional wheel alignment.
13. 13

    Reinstall wheel and lower vehicle
    Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten all lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle until the tire contacts the ground but does not bear full weight. Torque the lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Fully lower the vehicle and remove jack stands.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts142 Nm (105 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all fasteners are properly tightened and cotter pin is installed
2. Check that steering rack boot is properly sealed and secured
3. Test steering wheel rotation lock to lock while stationary to ensure full range of motion and no binding
4. Schedule professional wheel alignment immediately - vehicle will have incorrect toe setting

Verification

• Start vehicle and turn steering wheel slowly lock to lock, listening for unusual noises or binding
• Visually inspect all connections for proper assembly and secure fasteners
• Test drive vehicle at low speed in a safe area to verify steering response (drive directly to alignment shop)
• After alignment is completed, verify tie rod lock nut is torqued to final specification of 71 Nm (53 lb-ft)
• Recheck all torque specifications after alignment is complete
• Verify no steering play or looseness exists after final alignment and torque verification

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