Will a worn track rod end fail an MOT?

Yes. Excessive play at the track rod end ball joint is a major MOT failure under the steering inspection. Torn boots can also fail as an advisory escalating to a fail.

Can I replace just one track rod end?

Yes — they wear at different rates, particularly if one side has suffered kerb damage. Always do a wheel alignment afterwards, and inspect the opposite side at the same time.

How long does a track rod end last?

Typically 60,000–100,000 miles (96,000–160,000 km) on UK roads, but salt, potholes, and torn boots can shorten that significantly.

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Track Rod End buying guide — what to know before you buy

The track rod end (also called the tie rod end or outer ball joint) connects the steering rack to the steering arm on the wheel hub. Its ball joint allows steering input while the wheels move up and down with the suspension. Worn track rod ends are a frequent MOT failure and cause uneven tyre wear and imprecise steering.

When to replace

Track rod ends wear progressively. Free play in the joint is checked at every MOT under steering and suspension components.

Knocking noise from the front when steering at low speed
Vibration through the steering wheel above 50 mph (80 km/h)
Visible play when the wheel is rocked side to side at the 9 and 3 positions
Cracked or torn dust boot — water ingress accelerates failure
Uneven inner-edge tyre wear caused by toe being out of specification

What to look for when buying

Track rod ends are paired left and right and use specific thread directions. Some vehicles use sealed-for-life joints; others have a grease nipple.

Confirm side (left or right) and thread direction — not interchangeable
Check thread pitch matches the inner tie rod
Ball joint taper must match the steering arm — common sizes are M12, M14, M16
Boot material — polyurethane lasts longer than rubber in salty conditions
Wheel alignment is mandatory after replacement

Common failure modes

Track rod end failure is rarely sudden but can be catastrophic if the ball pulls out of its socket.

Ball-and-socket wear from years of steering input
Boot tear allows water and grit to wash out the grease, destroying the joint
Corrosion of the threads makes adjustment impossible without cutting
Impact damage from kerb strike bends the rod or distorts the joint
Loose locknut allows the joint to rotate and disturbs toe alignment

Related parts to check together

Track rod end replacement is the right time to check the rest of the steering linkage.

Inner tie rod — check for play in the rack-end joint
Steering rack gaiters — inspect for tears that would allow water into the rack
Wheel alignment — toe must be reset after any track rod end change
Lower ball joint — frequently fails alongside track rod ends as part of suspension wear