Dodge Stealth Steering Tie Rod End Guide: 1991-1996 Models
Address steering wander and uneven tire wear by choosing the correct tie rod ends for your FWD or AWD Stealth.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing any tie rod end to prevent tire damage and ensure safety.
- R/T Turbo models have rear tie rod ends that also wear out and should be inspected.
- Choosing an aftermarket brand with a grease fitting (like Moog or some Mevotech lines) can increase longevity.
- Symptoms include loose steering, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
Is Your Stealth's Steering Feeling Loose?
As a 1991-1996 Dodge Stealth ages, the steering tie rod ends are common wear items. These joints are constantly moving, and over tens of thousands of miles, the internal socket can loosen. This creates play in the steering system, leading to several noticeable problems. Ignoring them can lead to unsafe driving conditions and expensive tire damage.
Symptoms of a Bad Tie Rod End
- Steering Wheel Vibration: A shaky or vibrating steering wheel that often gets worse as you accelerate or turn.
- Loose or Vague Steering: A feeling that the steering has excessive play or a delayed response, making the car feel less precise.
- Clunking or Popping Noises: Audible clunks, pops, or knocking sounds from the front end, especially when turning at low speeds or driving over bumps.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Worn tie rods prevent the wheels from holding a proper alignment, causing the inside or outside edges of your tires to wear down much faster than the rest of the tread.
- Vehicle Pulling: The car may pull to the left or right on its own, requiring constant steering correction to drive straight.
A Note for R/T Turbo (AWD) Owners
Your Dodge Stealth R/T Turbo has an All-Wheel Steering (AWS) system, which means you have tie rod ends on the rear wheels as well as the front. These rear tie rods wear out just like the front ones and can cause similar issues with tire wear and handling instability. When diagnosing steering problems, be sure 🎬 Watch: A quick guide on how to inspect your tie rods. to inspect all four corners of the vehicle. OEM rear tie rods are often discontinued, making aftermarket parts the only viable option.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End
Since original OEM parts for the Stealth can be hard to find and expensive, the aftermarket offers many good alternatives. They can be grouped into tiers based on quality, features, and price. Remember that the Dodge Stealth shares its platform with the Mitsubishi 3000GT, so parts are often interchangeable.
Premium Brands: ($30 - $50+)
These brands are known for high-quality materials and engineering, often meeting or exceeding original specifications. They are the best choice for performance driving or for owners who want the longest-lasting repair.
- Moog: Often considered a top-tier brand, Moog's "Problem Solver" line frequently includes features like grease fittings (zerks) that allow you to re-lubricate the joint, extending its life. They also use durable materials and rigorous testing.
- Delphi: A major OEM supplier, Delphi parts are widely regarded for their OE-level quality and reliability. They are a dependable choice for a fit and function that matches the original part.
Mid-Grade & Value Brands: ($15 - $30)
These brands offer a good balance of quality and affordability for daily driving. They are a significant step up from worn-out original parts and provide a cost-effective solution.
- Mevotech: Offers multiple lines, from the standard replacement to the premium "Supreme" or "TTX" lines, which may include grease fittings. They are a popular choice that balances cost and features.
- Beck Arnley: Often sources parts from various manufacturers, including OEM suppliers, to match the original application.
- Dorman: A well-known brand that provides a wide array of affordable replacement parts. A practical choice for budget-conscious repairs.
- QuickSteer: Generally positioned as a value-oriented brand providing functional, no-frills replacements.
Replacement Cost for 1991-1996 Dodge Stealth
The cost to replace a tie rod end depends on the brand you choose and whether you do the work yourself 🎬 See this Dodge Stealth tie rod end replacement walkthrough. or hire a professional mechanic.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket Outer Tie Rod End (per side) | $15 - $48 |
| Shop Labor (per side) | $80 - $120 |
| Wheel Alignment (Required) | $100 - $150 |
Note: Prices are estimates and can vary by location and supplier. A full wheel alignment is not optional; it is required after replacement to prevent immediate tire wear and ensure safe handling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to get an alignment after replacing my tie rod ends?
Yes, absolutely. Replacing a tie rod end directly changes your vehicle's toe alignment setting. Skipping the alignment will cause rapid and uneven tire wear, poor handling, and will negate the benefit of the repair.
Should I replace inner and outer tie rods at the same time?
It's a good practice, but not always necessary. If you have a bad outer tie rod, the inner one may still be good. However, if the inner tie rod fails, you must remove the outer one to replace it, so doing both at once can save on future labor costs. You will need a special tool to replace the inner 🎬 Watch: How to replace both inner and outer tie rods. tie rod end.
How many tie rod ends does my Dodge Stealth have?
All models (Base, ES, R/T) have four front tie rod ends (two inner, two outer). The R/T Turbo AWD models have an additional four in the rear (two inner, two outer) for the all-wheel steering system, for a total of eight.
Can I replace just one side?
Yes. Tie rod ends wear independently. If only the driver's side is bad, you only need to replace that one. However, they are often replaced in pairs (left and right) since they have been subjected to the same amount of wear and the other side may fail soon.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MB527650 MB864164
Vehicle has both inner and outer tie rods. FWD models use different parts than AWD models. AWD models also feature rear steering with its own set of tie rod ends.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Dodge Stealth:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Stealth's Steering Feeling Loose?
- Symptoms of a Bad Tie Rod End
- A Note for R/T Turbo (AWD) Owners
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End
- Premium Brands: ($30 - $50+)
- Mid-Grade & Value Brands: ($15 - $30)
- Replacement Cost for 1991-1996 Dodge Stealth
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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