This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the inner tie rod end on a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry 2.5L I4, requiring rack boot removal and precise measurement to maintain alignment reference.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Inner tie rod end × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering rack boot × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Rack boot clamps × 2 — Use OEM specification
• New cotter pin for outer tie rod × 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 safely support front of vehicle on jack stands at manufacturer-specified jacking points
4. Remove wheel from side being serviced
5. Center the steering wheel and do not turn it during this procedure

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark tie rod position
   Loosen the tie rod lock nut between the inner and outer tie rod ends. Use a paint marker to mark the exact position of the outer tie rod threads relative to the inner tie rod. Count and record the number of visible threads. Measure the overall length from the center of the outer tie rod ball joint to the inner tie rod housing for reference.
2. 2

   Remove outer tie rod from inner tie rod
   While holding the inner tie rod with adjustable pliers or wrench, unthread the outer tie rod end from the inner tie rod by turning it counterclockwise. Count the number of turns as you remove it and record this number. Remove the lock nut from the inner tie rod threads.
3. 3

   Remove steering rack boot
   Locate the large and small boot clamps securing the steering rack boot to the inner tie rod and rack housing. Cut both clamps with diagonal cutters and remove them. Slide the boot off the inner tie rod toward the steering rack to expose the inner tie rod connection.
   ℹ️Inspect the boot for tears or damage. Replace if compromised as moisture will damage the rack.
4. 4

   Mark inner tie rod position on rack
   Before removing the inner tie rod, use a paint marker to mark the position of the inner tie rod body relative to the steering rack housing. This provides an additional alignment reference. Clean the inner tie rod threads with a wire brush if corroded.
5. 5

   Remove inner tie rod end
   Using an inner tie rod removal tool or large adjustable pliers, grip the flats on the inner tie rod body firmly. Unthread the inner tie rod from the steering rack by turning counterclockwise. The inner tie rod has a staked thread lock that will require significant force to break loose initially. Once loose, unthread completely and remove the inner tie rod.
   ⚠Apply force in a controlled manner to avoid slipping and damaging rack threads or housing. Do not use an impact wrench.
6. 6

   Inspect rack threads and prepare for installation
   Inspect the threads on the steering rack for damage or excessive wear. Clean threads thoroughly with a wire brush. Verify that the new inner tie rod threads match the old part and thread smoothly onto the rack by hand for at least 2-3 turns before applying any tools.
7. 7

   Install new inner tie rod
   Apply a small amount of medium-strength thread locker to the rack threads if desired (optional). Thread the new inner tie rod onto the steering rack by hand until it reaches the alignment mark made in step 4. Use the inner tie rod tool to tighten the inner tie rod firmly. Torque to manufacturer specification, typically 60-70 ft-lb, though not listed in database - tighten firmly until thread lock engages and stake if required by new part design.
   ℹ️Some replacement inner tie rods come pre-staked or with thread locker pre-applied. Follow part-specific instructions.
8. 8

   Install new steering rack boot
   Slide the new steering rack boot over the inner tie rod, ensuring the small end seats properly in the groove on the steering rack housing and the large end seats on the inner tie rod body. Install new boot clamps on both ends and tighten securely. Ensure the boot is not twisted and has proper clearance for suspension travel.
9. 9

   Reinstall outer tie rod
   Thread the outer tie rod end onto the new inner tie rod, aligning it with the paint marks made earlier and matching the same number of turns recorded during removal. Verify the overall length measurement matches your initial reference. Install the lock nut but do not fully tighten yet.
   ℹ️This step restores approximate toe setting only. Professional alignment is still required.
10. 10

    Verify outer tie rod connection
    Ensure the outer tie rod ball joint is properly seated in the steering knuckle. If it was removed during this procedure, install and torque the castle nut, then install a new cotter pin. If it remained connected throughout, verify the connection is still secure.
    Torque spec

    Tie Rod End Castle Nut55 Nm (41 lb-ft)
11. 11

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

    Wheel Lug Nuts136 Nm (100 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Do not fully torque the tie rod lock nut until after a professional wheel alignment is performed
2. After alignment, torque the tie rod lock nut to specification
3. Verify steering wheel is still centered and steering operates smoothly through full lock-to-lock movement

Verification

• Verify no power steering fluid leaks from rack boot area after starting vehicle and turning wheel lock-to-lock
• Check that steering operates smoothly with no binding or unusual noises
• Test drive in a safe area at low speed to verify basic steering function before proceeding to alignment shop
• Have a professional four-wheel alignment performed immediately - verify final tie rod lock nut torque of 68 Nm (50 lb-ft) after alignment is complete
• After alignment and first test drive, re-check tie rod lock nut tightness

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