Steering System - Outer Tie Rod Knocking Noise

Retailer Technical Journal 20858

Outer tie rod, Knocking noise

Date 04-15-2009

Reference: VIDA, VSTG

Note!
If using a printed copy of this Retailer Technical Journal, first check for the latest online version.





AFFECTED VEHICLES

DESCRIPTION:

Customers may complain of a knocking noise in the steering. New outer tie rods with improved corrosion resistance were implemented into production on vehicles with speed sensitive steering after the chassis numbers in the header. These parts will also supersede all existing spare parts.

Note!
The new outer tie rod is 3 mm (0.12") longer and will thereby limit the adjustment range for toe-in.

SERVICE:

First, carry out basic analysis to understand where the noise is coming from. If possible, use the Chassis Ears toolkit.

1. Check the number of threads that are visible on the inner tie rod before taking off the old outer tie rod; at least 2 complete threads (3mm or 0.12") must be visible.

2. If 2 complete threads (3mm or 0.12") do not exist, contact the Technical Helpdesk. A limited number of a shorter version is available for critical cases that can be sent to the retailer.





3. If a distance of 2 complete threads (3mm or 0.12") exists, replace the outer tie rod according to VIDA:

INFORMATION

REPAIR

Removal, replacement, and Installation

Suspension and steering

Steering arm, tie-rod and connections

Steering arm outer





WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION