Replacing the tie rods on a 2020 Ford Expedition is a critical maintenance task that ensures the vehicle's steering remains responsive and precise. The tie rods connect the steering rack to the steering knuckle, allowing you to control the direction of your vehicle. Over time, tie rods can wear out, leading to poor handling, uneven tire wear, and a loose or shaky steering wheel. In this guide, I'll walk you through the process of replacing the tie rods on a 2020 Ford Expedition.
Tools and Parts You'll Need
Before starting the replacement process, gather the following tools and parts:
- New inner and outer tie rods (OEM recommended or high-quality aftermarket)
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Wrench set (including a 21mm wrench)
- Tie rod puller or separator tool
- Torque wrench
- Grease
- Penetrating oil (if needed)
- Alignment tool (recommended after replacement)
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Tie Rods
1. Preparation and Safety
- Park your Ford Expedition on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels before lifting the vehicle.
- Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
- Remove the front wheels to access the tie rods.
2. Locate and Inspect the Tie Rods
- Identify the inner and outer tie rods on the steering system. The outer tie rod connects to the steering knuckle, while the inner tie rod connects to the steering rack.
- Inspect the tie rods for wear, such as looseness or excessive play, which would indicate they need replacement.
3. Remove the Outer Tie Rod
- Use a wrench to loosen the nut that secures the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle. A 21mm wrench is typically required for the Ford Expedition.
- If the nut is difficult to remove, apply penetrating oil and allow it to sit for a few minutes.
- Once the nut is loose, use a tie rod puller or separator tool to disconnect the outer tie rod from the steering knuckle.
4. Remove the Inner Tie Rod
- Loosen the lock nut that secures the inner tie rod to the outer tie rod.
- Unscrew the outer tie rod from the inner tie rod. Be sure to count the number of turns it takes to remove the tie rod, as this will help with alignment when installing the new one.
- If you're replacing the inner tie rod as well, use a wrench to remove it from the steering rack.
5. Install the New Tie Rods
- Install the new inner tie rod by threading it onto the steering rack and tightening it to the manufacturer’s torque specification.
- Screw the new outer tie rod onto the inner tie rod, matching the number of turns you counted during removal.
- Reattach the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle and tighten the nut to the specified torque (usually around 35-45 ft-lbs for the Ford Expedition).
6. Reassemble and Test
- Reinstall the front wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the vehicle back to the ground and fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to the manufacturer’s torque specification (typically around 100-110 ft-lbs for the Ford Expedition).
- Check the steering wheel for proper alignment and ensure there is no play or looseness in the steering system.
7. Alignment Check
- After replacing the tie rods, it's highly recommended to have the vehicle's alignment checked and adjusted by a professional. This ensures that the steering is precise and that your tires wear evenly.
FAQ
How often should tie rods be replaced on a 2020 Ford Expedition?
- Tie rods don't have a set replacement interval, but they should be inspected regularly during routine maintenance. If you notice symptoms like loose steering, uneven tire wear, or strange noises while turning, it may be time to replace them.
Can I replace the tie rods myself, or should I go to a mechanic?
- Replacing tie rods is a task that can be done by a skilled DIYer with the right tools. However, because it affects your vehicle's steering and alignment, it’s crucial to ensure the job is done correctly. If you're unsure, it's safer to have a professional handle it.
What are the torque specifications for tie rod replacement on a 2020 Ford Expedition?
- The outer tie rod nut should be tightened to around 35-45 ft-lbs, and the lug nuts should be tightened to approximately 100-110 ft-lbs.
Do I need an alignment after replacing the tie rods?
- Yes, it's recommended to have an alignment check and adjustment after replacing tie rods to ensure proper steering and tire wear.
What are the signs that my tie rods need replacing?
- Common signs include loose or unresponsive steering, uneven tire wear, a vibrating steering wheel, and noises when turning.