Steering

Steering tie rod

Transfers rack movement to the wheel carrier.

Drag to turn it Open in the 3D lab
Where it sits

Between steering rack and front wheel carrier.

How it works

An adjustable rod and ball joints convey motion while accommodating suspension travel.

Think of it as

A push-pull link guiding the wheel.

Symptoms when it fails

Play, knocking or uneven tire wear can involve tie rods, suspension or alignment.

Lifespan

Joints and boots are inspected for play, damage and leakage; electrical assistance has no universal preventive replacement interval.

Repair cost

A tie-rod or boot service differs from a complete assisted rack. Alignment and electronic calibration may add work.

The BMW angle

BMW toe alignment is affected by tie-rod adjustment and should be checked after relevant replacement.

Used in

BMW steering systems as fitted; assistance type and rear-steering availability depend on chassis.

Sources
Same system

Steering

Steering rackTurns steering input into side-to-side movement at the front wheels.Steering columnConnects the steering wheel to the steering gear.Electric steering-assist motorAdds controlled force to help turn the wheels.Steering-angle sensorReports steering position for vehicle-control systems.Integral Active Steering rear actuatorAdjusts rear-wheel steering angle on equipped cars.