This procedure covers the replacement of outer tie rod ends on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, including proper removal, installation, and preparation for alignment.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Outer tie rod end (left or right as needed) × 1 — 45046-06210 (left) or 45047-06210 (right)
• Cotter pin × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Tie rod boot (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Loosen wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground
3. Raise and support vehicle on jack stands at proper lift points
4. Remove front wheel on side being serviced
5. Spray tie rod end castle nut and lock nut with penetrating oil if corroded

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark tie rod position
   Before loosening anything, measure and record the exposed thread length from the tie rod lock nut to the end of the tie rod threads. This will help approximate toe setting for driving to alignment shop. Use tape or paint to mark the position of the outer tie rod end relative to the inner tie rod.
2. 2

   Remove cotter pin
   Straighten the cotter pin legs using pliers, then pull the cotter pin out of the castle nut. Discard the old cotter pin as it cannot be reused.
3. 3

   Loosen tie rod end castle nut
   Using a 21mm socket, loosen the tie rod end castle nut but do not remove it completely yet. Leave it threaded on a few turns to protect the threads and catch the tie rod end when it separates.
4. 4

   Separate tie rod end from knuckle
   Use a tie rod end puller or pickle fork to separate the tie rod end taper from the steering knuckle. Position the tool properly and apply steady pressure. Once separated, remove the castle nut completely and withdraw the tie rod end stud from the knuckle.
   ⚠If using a pickle fork, be aware this may damage the tie rod boot. Use a proper puller if reusing the tie rod end.
5. 5

   Loosen tie rod lock nut
   Hold the outer tie rod end from rotating and use a 19mm wrench to loosen the lock nut on the tie rod. Do not remove it completely; thread it toward the outer tie rod end to keep your reference marks visible.
6. 6

   Remove outer tie rod end
   Count and record the number of turns as you unthread the outer tie rod end from the inner tie rod. This count will help you install the new tie rod end at approximately the same position. Remove the lock nut from the old tie rod end.
7. 7

   Prepare new tie rod end
   Clean the threads on the inner tie rod with a wire brush. Thread the lock nut onto the new outer tie rod end. Compare the new tie rod end to the old one to verify correct part.
8. 8

   Install new tie rod end
   Thread the new outer tie rod end onto the inner tie rod the same number of turns you counted during removal. Verify the exposed thread length matches your initial measurement. This is only an approximation; professional alignment is still required.
9. 9

   Install tie rod end to knuckle
   Insert the tie rod end stud into the steering knuckle. Install the castle nut and tighten to specification. The castle nut slots must align with the stud hole for cotter pin installation.
   Torque spec

   Tie Rod End Castle Nut55 Nm (41 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Install new cotter pin
    Insert a new cotter pin through the castle nut and tie rod stud. Bend the legs of the cotter pin in opposite directions to secure it. The cotter pin should not interfere with any moving parts or contact the wheel.
11. 11

    Reinstall wheel
    Mount the wheel and hand-thread all lug nuts. Lower the vehicle until the tire just contacts the ground to prevent wheel rotation. Torque lug nuts in a star pattern to specification.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts136 Nm (100 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Tighten lock nut after alignment
    After professional wheel alignment is completed, the tie rod lock nut must be tightened to specification to secure the toe adjustment. This is typically done by the alignment technician.
    ℹ️The lock nut should only be final-torqued after alignment to avoid disturbing the toe setting.
    Torque spec

    Tie Rod Lock Nut68 Nm (50 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle completely and remove jack stands
2. Perform final torque check on wheel lug nuts with vehicle on ground
3. Test steering for smooth operation and unusual noises
4. Verify tie rod boot is not torn or damaged

Verification

• Check that tie rod end has no play when steering wheel is moved
• Verify cotter pin is properly installed and secure
• Confirm steering wheel returns to center when turned and released
• Schedule professional wheel alignment immediately - vehicle should not be driven extensively until aligned
• After alignment, verify vehicle tracks straight and steering wheel is centered during highway driving

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