How much does it cost to replace a track rod end?
According to our research, the track rod end replacement cost (UK) usually ranges between £40 and £120.
The average track rod end replacement cost works out at approximately £80, including parts and labour.
What are the track rod end replacement costs at dealerships compared to Fixter garages?
When replacing a track rod end with Fixter, on average, we save our customers around 30% against dealership prices. Not only do you save money, but you also benefit from our superb collection and delivery service.
It’s the most convenient way to carry out car repairs, upgrades, services, and MOTs you’ll find. Who else collects your car and delivers it back to you when the work is complete?
What additional factors could affect a track rod end replacement?
There aren’t too many factors to affect a track rod end replacement if it’s merely showing signs of wear. However, if you’re unlucky enough to suffer a complete break, there’s a chance it could cause further damage to the associated components.
To avoid any additional damage costs, we recommend keeping an eye on the condition of your track rod ends, as they’re a relatively regularly replaced item within our data lists.
What are the costs of track rod end replacement parts?
Prices for track rod ends vary for each make and model of car. Let’s take a look at the typical costs of Eurocarparts components over a selection of popular vehicles.
In our search, we took the average for standard 2020 models.
|
Car Make |
Car Model |
Track Rod End Prices |
|
Ford |
Fiesta |
£15 |
|
Fiat |
500 |
£11 |
|
Volkswagen |
Golf |
£12 |
|
Mercedes |
C Class |
£19 |
|
Audi |
A4 |
£23 |
|
BMW |
5 Series |
£45 |
|
Land Rover |
Range Rover |
£23 |
|
Volkswagen |
Tiguan |
£11 |
|
Audi |
Q5 |
£24 |
What are the labour times and rates for track rod end replacement?
Depending on the make and model of your car, it shouldn’t take longer than 45 minutes to replace a track rod end.
Track rod end replacement costs vary across the country according to each garage and dealership. We examined our records to calculate the average hourly rate.
We found that garages within the London area charged an average rate of £78 per hour. For garages throughout the rest of the country, the rate was a little lower, as you’d expect, at £72 per hour.
What is a track rod end ball joint?
The track rod in each wheel combines an inner and outer track rod. The inner rod is attached to the steering rack and pinion, and the outer is attached to the steering knuckle. The track rod end is a small, flexible ball joint. It connects them at the end of the rods, allowing them to swivel smoothly and move efficiently, keeping all associated components in healthy working order.
How often should you change a track rod end?
You’ve got probably as much chance of guessing the lottery numbers as to when your track rod ends might fail. Given they’re vulnerable to damage through poor road conditions, debris, and all manner or other offending articles, it’s too tough an ask to pinpoint.
You should change them as soon as you see signs of wear, or if they or their seals are damaged or broken—so keeping a check on their condition at your car’s services and MOTs is recommended.
How do I know if my track rod end needs replacing?
Unless wear is severe, you might not notice that your track rod end is on its way out straight away. However, they should be checked every year as part of your MOT. That way, your mechanics will let you know when they reach the ‘advisory’ status, giving you a chance to get them swapped over before any additional damage occurs.
Can you drive with a broken track rod end?
While you can still drive with a worn track end, it’s advisable to have it fixed right away to protect the other components of your steering. Driving with a broken track rod end is a big no-no, as the whole of your car’s steering will be compromised, and handling will be significantly affected—safety first, people!
What are the symptoms of a bad track rod end?
- You’ll feel vibrations through your steering wheel
- Steering won’t be as effortless as normal
- You’ll often hear and feel knocking as you pass over bumps or change direction
- Uneven and excessive tyre wear
What causes a track rod end to break?
Everyday use can cause track rod ends to wear out and break over time. The other leading cause of their breakage is accidental damage due to impact or hitting a large bump or object in the road too fast. If the rubber seal is damaged or split, it allows the dirt in and the grease that protects the joint to leak out.
If you think your track rod end might be on its way out, or if there’s anything else causing concern as you drive, why not let one of our experts take a look and identify the problem for you? We’re always ready and waiting to help.
Choose Fixter – Get an instant quote for your track rod end replacement and save up to 30%
About Fixter
Fixter is revolutionising the car maintenance industry, one repair at a time. Fixter was founded to make car maintenance as easy as booking a taxi. Digital, transparent and stress-free, with world-class customer service. Since launching in Manchester in 2017, Fixter has expanded to more than 100 towns and cities across the UK and provided thousands of car owners with honest, convenient and affordable car repair services.