Tie Rod Assembly

Replace the tie rod assembly on a 2024 Rivian EDV 500, including removal of the outer tie rod end, inner tie rod, and installation of new components with proper alignment considerations.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tie rod assembly (inner and outer) × 1 — Use OEM specification for Rivian EDV 500
• Tie rod end castle nut × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cotter pin × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Tie rod boot/bellows (if separate) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal to prevent power steering system activation during service
3. Loosen front wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground
4. Raise front of vehicle using appropriate lift points per Rivian service manual and secure with heavy-duty jack stands
5. Remove front wheel on affected side
6. Measure and record current tie rod length from inner tie rod locknut to outer tie rod end center for approximate reinstallation reference
7. Take reference photos of tie rod orientation and adjustment position
8. Apply penetrating lubricant to tie rod end castle nut, jam nuts, and inner tie rod threads

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove outer tie rod end castle nut
   Remove the cotter pin from the outer tie rod end castle nut. Using appropriate socket, remove the castle nut from the tie rod end stud. Do not reuse the cotter pin.
2. 2

   Separate tie rod end from steering knuckle
   Using a tie rod end separator tool or pickle fork, separate the outer tie rod end taper from the steering knuckle. Apply force carefully to avoid damaging the steering knuckle bore. If using a pickle fork, position it between the tie rod and knuckle, then strike with hammer until taper releases. Alternatively, use a ball joint separator tool for cleaner separation.
3. 3

   Mark and remove outer tie rod end
   Count and record the number of threads visible between the outer tie rod end and the jam nut. Loosen the jam nut securing the outer tie rod end to the inner tie rod. Unthread the outer tie rod end from the inner tie rod by rotating counterclockwise. Count full rotations for reference during installation.
4. 4

   Access inner tie rod mounting point
   If equipped with a steering rack boot or bellows, peel back or remove the boot to access the inner tie rod connection at the steering rack. Clean the area around the inner tie rod connection with wire brush to remove debris and corrosion.
5. 5

   Remove inner tie rod
   Using tie rod pliers or adjustable wrench on the flats of the inner tie rod, unthread the inner tie rod from the steering rack. The inner tie rod may be staked or use a locking tab - straighten any locking mechanism before removal. Turn counterclockwise to remove. Support the steering rack to prevent rotation during removal.
6. 6

   Inspect steering rack threads and boot
   Inspect the steering rack threads for damage or excessive wear. Check the condition of the steering rack boot for tears or damage. Clean threads on steering rack with wire brush if reusing rack. Replace boot if damaged.
7. 7

   Install new inner tie rod
   Apply medium-strength thread locker to the threads of the new inner tie rod. Thread the new inner tie rod into the steering rack by hand, then tighten using tie rod pliers or adjustable wrench. Note: Since torque specifications are not available in database, tighten firmly per manufacturer installation instructions or service manual. Stake or bend locking tab if applicable to the design.
8. 8

   Install steering rack boot
   If removed, install new or reinstall existing steering rack boot/bellows over the inner tie rod. Ensure boot is properly seated in both the steering rack groove and the tie rod groove. Secure with clamps if applicable.
9. 9

   Install outer tie rod end
   Thread the new outer tie rod end onto the inner tie rod the same number of rotations counted during removal, or to match the previously recorded measurement. This provides an approximate starting point for alignment. Leave the jam nut loose for now.
10. 10

    Connect tie rod end to steering knuckle
    Insert the outer tie rod end stud into the steering knuckle taper. Ensure the stud seats fully into the taper. Install the new castle nut and tighten. Note: Since torque specifications are not available in database, tighten firmly per manufacturer specification. Align castle nut slots with cotter pin hole - tighten further if needed to align, never loosen.
11. 11

    Install cotter pin and secure jam nut
    Install new cotter pin through castle nut and tie rod end stud, then bend ends to secure. Tighten the jam nut against the outer tie rod end to lock the adjustment in place. This is a temporary setting until alignment is performed.
12. 12

    Verify installation and range of motion
    Verify all fasteners are properly tightened and secured. Rotate the steering wheel lock-to-lock slowly to verify full range of motion without binding or interference. Check that all boots are properly seated and not twisted.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall wheel and hand-tighten lug nuts
2. Lower vehicle to ground and torque wheel lug nuts to Rivian specification in star pattern
3. Reconnect 12V battery negative terminal
4. Clear any steering system fault codes using diagnostic tool if necessary
5. Test electric power steering operation by turning steering wheel with vehicle running

Verification

• Start vehicle and verify electric power steering system operates without warning lights
• Perform visual inspection of tie rod installation to confirm all components are secure and properly seated
• Check for any unusual noises when turning steering wheel lock-to-lock
• Schedule immediate professional wheel alignment - toe adjustment is critical after tie rod replacement
• After alignment, verify steering wheel is centered and vehicle tracks straight
• Test drive at low speed in safe area to confirm steering response and no abnormal noises

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