Replace both inner and outer tie rod ends on the steering rack to restore proper steering linkage and prepare for wheel alignment.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Outer tie rod end - driver side × 1 — 45046-02180 or equivalent
• Outer tie rod end - passenger side × 1 — 45047-02180 or equivalent
• Inner tie rod assembly - driver side × 1 — 45503-02200 or equivalent
• Inner tie rod assembly - passenger side × 1 — 45503-02210 or equivalent
• Cotter pins × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Steering rack boots (if damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Loosen wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground (do not remove)
3. Raise front of vehicle and secure on jack stands at manufacturer specified lift points
4. Remove both front wheels
5. Spray tie rod threads, castle nuts, and lock nuts with penetrating oil and allow to soak 10-15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Measure and mark existing tie rod position
   Before removing any components, measure the exposed thread length from the tie rod lock nut to the end of the outer tie rod. Record this measurement for both sides. Mark the position of the outer tie rod on the inner tie rod threads with a paint pen. This preserves approximate toe setting for initial alignment.
2. 2

   Remove outer tie rod end castle nut
   Using needle nose pliers, straighten and remove the cotter pin from the outer tie rod end castle nut. Using a 19mm socket, remove the castle nut from the tie rod stud. Keep the nut for reference when installing the new tie rod.
3. 3

   Separate outer tie rod from knuckle
   Install tie rod end separator or pickle fork between the steering knuckle and tie rod end. Strike the separator with a hammer or use the threaded type to apply pressure until the tie rod stud releases from the knuckle taper. Avoid damaging the steering knuckle or CV boot during separation.
   ⚠Do not strike the tie rod stud directly as this can damage the threads and make removal difficult.
4. 4

   Remove outer tie rod end
   Loosen the tie rod lock nut using a 21mm wrench. Count and record the number of turns required to remove the outer tie rod end from the inner tie rod. Thread the outer tie rod counter-clockwise to remove it along with the lock nut.
5. 5

   Remove steering rack boot clamps
   If replacing inner tie rods, carefully cut or release the boot clamps securing the steering rack boot to the inner tie rod and steering rack. Slide the boot away from the inner tie rod to expose the connection point. Inspect the boot for tears or damage.
   ℹ️If boots are in good condition and you can preserve them, they may be reused. Otherwise, replacement boots should be installed.
6. 6

   Remove inner tie rod
   The inner tie rod on 2014-2019 Corolla connects to the steering rack with a stake nut or crimped connection. Using a 21mm wrench or appropriate tool, loosen and remove the inner tie rod from the steering rack. Some models may require an inner tie rod tool to hold the rack while loosening. Turn counter-clockwise to remove.
7. 7

   Clean threads and inspect components
   Use a wire brush to clean the threads on the steering rack where the inner tie rod mounts. Inspect the steering rack boots, rack mounting points, and surrounding components for damage, excessive wear, or leaking fluid. Replace boots if damaged.
8. 8

   Install new inner tie rod
   Thread the new inner tie rod clockwise onto the steering rack by hand until it seats. Use a wrench to tighten according to manufacturer specifications. Ensure the connection is secure and properly seated against the rack shoulder.
9. 9

   Install steering rack boot
   Slide the steering rack boot over the inner tie rod and position it correctly on both the rack housing and inner tie rod. Install new boot clamps and tighten securely. Ensure the boot is not twisted and has proper clearance throughout the steering range.
10. 10

    Install outer tie rod end
    Thread the tie rod lock nut onto the new outer tie rod end first. Then thread the outer tie rod end onto the inner tie rod clockwise to the previously marked position or measured thread count. Do not tighten the lock nut yet.
11. 11

    Connect outer tie rod to steering knuckle
    Insert the tie rod stud into the steering knuckle taper. Install the castle nut and tighten to specification. The nut slots must align with the cotter pin hole. If needed, tighten further (never loosen) to align the next castle slot with the hole.
    ⚠Never loosen the castle nut to align cotter pin holes. Always tighten to the next slot if alignment is not achieved at specified torque.
    Torque spec

    Tie Rod End Castle Nut55 Nm (41 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Install new cotter pin
    Insert a new cotter pin through the castle nut and tie rod stud hole. Bend the ends of the cotter pin around the castle nut to secure it. Ensure the cotter pin cannot work loose during operation.
13. 13

    Repeat for opposite side
    Perform steps 1 through 12 for the opposite side tie rod assembly. Use the same measurement and marking technique to preserve approximate alignment settings.
14. 14

    Reinstall wheels
    Install both front wheels and thread lug nuts by hand. Lower vehicle until wheels contact the ground but vehicle weight is not fully on suspension. Torque lug nuts in a star pattern to specification. Lower vehicle completely and re-torque lug nuts.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts129 Nm (95 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. After professional alignment is completed, torque the tie rod lock nuts to specification on both sides
2. Verify all cotter pins are properly installed and secured
3. Double-check that all fasteners are torqued to specification
4. Test steering wheel center position and steering operation before road testing

Verification

• Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary and verify smooth operation with no binding or unusual noises
• Check for any fluid leaks around steering rack boots
• Verify steering wheel returns to center after turning
• Road test vehicle at low speed in a safe area to confirm proper steering response
• Have vehicle professionally aligned and torque tie rod lock nuts to 64 Nm (48 lb-ft) after alignment is complete
• Re-check all torque specifications after alignment
• Verify tire wear pattern is even after 50-100 miles of driving

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