This procedure covers removal and replacement of the tie rod assembly (inner and outer tie rod ends) on a 2018-2024 Toyota Camry with 2.5L I4 engine. A wheel alignment is required after completion.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tie rod assembly (inner and outer, left or right as needed) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cotter pins (tie rod end) × 1 — Standard 2mm x 30mm
• Steering rack boot (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface, set parking brake, and chock rear wheels
2. Loosen wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on the ground (do not remove)
3. Raise front of vehicle and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer-specified lift points
4. Remove front wheel on affected side
5. Spray tie rod end taper, castle nut, and lock nut with penetrating oil and let soak 10-15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark tie rod position for reference
   Before loosening anything, measure and record the exposed thread length from the tie rod lock nut to the end of the outer tie rod. Mark the position of the outer tie rod on the inner tie rod threads with paint or tape. This helps maintain approximate alignment for initial setup.
2. 2

   Remove outer tie rod end cotter pin and castle nut
   Straighten and remove the cotter pin from the tie rod end castle nut using pliers. Discard the old cotter pin. Remove the castle nut from the tie rod end stud using a 17mm wrench. Do not reuse this nut if it shows wear or thread damage.
3. 3

   Separate tie rod end from knuckle
   Use a tie rod end separator tool or pickle fork to separate the tie rod end taper from the steering knuckle. Position the separator between the knuckle and tie rod end, then apply pressure to release the taper. Avoid damaging the steering knuckle or brake components during separation.
   ⚠Do not strike the tie rod stud directly as this can damage the threads. Use proper separation tools only.
4. 4

   Loosen tie rod lock nut
   Using a 19mm wrench, loosen the tie rod lock nut that secures the outer tie rod to the inner tie rod. Do not remove the lock nut completely yet. Keep it threaded on to serve as a reference point for the measurement you recorded earlier.
5. 5

   Remove outer tie rod end
   Count and record the number of turns as you unscrew the outer tie rod end from the inner tie rod. This provides a secondary reference for installation. Once fully unscrewed, remove the outer tie rod end and lock nut together. Inspect the threads on the inner tie rod for damage.
6. 6

   Inspect and access inner tie rod (if replacing)
   If replacing the complete tie rod assembly including the inner tie rod, pull back the steering rack boot to expose the inner tie rod connection to the steering rack. Clean the area with a wire brush. Note the condition of the boot and replace if torn or damaged.
   ℹ️If only replacing the outer tie rod end, skip to step 8 for installation.
7. 7

   Remove inner tie rod from rack
   Use appropriate tools to loosen and remove the inner tie rod from the steering rack. Most Camry inner tie rods require a specialized socket or adjustable wrench to grip the flat surfaces near the rack connection. Remove the inner tie rod assembly. Inspect the steering rack boot for damage and replace if necessary.
   ⚠Do not allow contaminants to enter the steering rack housing. Keep the area clean during work.
8. 8

   Install new inner tie rod (if replaced)
   Thread the new inner tie rod into the steering rack by hand to avoid cross-threading. Tighten to manufacturer specifications using the appropriate tool. Ensure the connection is secure and properly seated. Reposition the steering rack boot over the inner tie rod connection and secure with clamps.
9. 9

   Install outer tie rod end
   Thread the tie rod lock nut onto the inner tie rod threads first (threads facing out). Then thread the new outer tie rod end onto the inner tie rod, matching your earlier reference marks and turn count. Thread it to approximately the same position as the old tie rod, using your measurements as a guide. Do not tighten the lock nut yet.
10. 10

    Connect tie rod end to steering knuckle
    Insert the tie rod end stud into the steering knuckle taper hole. Ensure the taper seats properly and the stud pulls through. Install the castle nut and tighten to specification. The castle nut slots must align with the cotter pin hole in the stud. If necessary, tighten slightly more (never loosen) to achieve alignment.
    ⚠Always tighten to next castle nut slot if cotter pin hole does not align. Never loosen to achieve alignment.
    Torque spec

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

    Install new cotter pin
    Insert a new cotter pin through the castle nut slots and tie rod end stud hole. Bend the cotter pin ends to secure it properly—one end bent over the top of the castle nut, the other wrapped around the stud. Ensure the cotter pin cannot back out.
12. 12

    Temporarily set lock nut
    Snug the tie rod lock nut against the outer tie rod end housing using a 19mm wrench, but do not torque to final specification yet. This setting is temporary until a professional wheel alignment is performed. The lock nut prevents the outer tie rod from changing position during driving to the alignment shop.
    ℹ️Final torque specification for the tie rod lock nut must be applied AFTER wheel alignment is completed.
13. 13

    Reinstall wheel and lower vehicle
    Position the wheel onto the hub and thread lug nuts by hand. Lower the vehicle until the tire just contacts the ground. Torque wheel lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Fully lower the vehicle and remove jack stands.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts136 Nm (100 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Repeat entire procedure for opposite side if both tie rods are being replaced
2. Before driving, verify all fasteners are properly secured and cotter pins are correctly installed
3. Test steering wheel operation to ensure full range of motion without binding

Verification

• Verify tie rod end castle nut is torqued to specification and secured with new cotter pin
• Confirm tie rod end has no play or looseness in the taper connection
• Check that steering rack boot is properly seated and secured with no tears
• Schedule and complete a professional four-wheel alignment immediately—driving without proper alignment can cause dangerous handling characteristics and rapid tire wear
• After alignment is complete, torque the tie rod lock nut to 68.0 Nm (50 lb-ft) as specified
• Test drive vehicle in a safe area to confirm steering response and no unusual noises

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