Track rods — the transverse links that run from the steering rack or box to the wheel hub — are the mechanical connection through which every steering input is physically transmitted to the front wheels. Each rod consists of an inner joint (the rack end), a threaded adjustment tube, and an outer track rod end with a ball joint that attaches to the hub carrier. When the outer ball joint fails, the most immediate symptom is a loose or wandering feel to the steering, sometimes accompanied by a clunking noise over uneven road surfaces or during low-speed turning. Uneven tyre wear across the inner or outer shoulder is a slower-developing consequence that appears when the joint allows the wheel to move out of its designed toe angle. Lemförder and TRW manufacture the majority of original-equipment track rod assemblies for European vehicles, and their catalogue coverage is among the widest available through TecDoc. Because rod length, thread pitch, and joint taper all vary between chassis variants — and because a mismatch of even a few millimetres affects toe alignment — the OE number is the definitive reference for ensuring the correct part. Replacement should always be followed by a four-wheel alignment check to bring toe angles back within specification.
Track rods are catalogued by the OE number stamped on the existing component, by make, model, chassis code, and production date. The inner joint end usually carries an OE reference from the steering rack manufacturer, while the outer end is catalogued separately. Using the make-model-year filter here narrows the selection to units with the correct thread pitch and ball-joint taper. Confirm left-hand and right-hand fitment before ordering — most assemblies are side-specific even when they appear externally symmetrical.
OEM track rods from brands such as Lemförder or TRW are built to the exact geometry specified by the vehicle manufacturer, including joint taper angle and rod length tolerance. Quality aftermarket parts from established suppliers match these parameters and carry the same TecDoc cross-references, making them a practical replacement. Lower-cost alternatives may use softer ball joint compounds or less precise rod lengths, which can lead to accelerated wear and the need for more frequent alignment corrections over the component's service life.
If only one outer joint has worn to the point of excess play, replacing just that side is acceptable. However, if the vehicle has high mileage and both joints show similar wear when tested — which involves grasping the road wheel at 3 and 9 o'clock and checking for horizontal play — replacing both sides at the same workshop visit avoids a repeat alignment charge within a few months. The inner joints wear more slowly and are often replaced only when a steering rack overhaul is carried out.
The classic sign is vague or imprecise steering that requires constant small corrections to hold a straight line on a flat road. At low speeds you may hear a knock or click when turning lock-to-lock. A worn track rod end also produces a characteristic vibration through the steering wheel at motorway speeds, and the tyre on the affected side will show accelerated wear on one edge of the tread. Any play detected when the road wheel is pushed and pulled horizontally (with the weight off the wheel) confirms the joint needs replacement.
Showing 100 of 3,539 Track Rod OE numbers. Enter the OE on the main OE search to jump to any reference.
