A Guide to Steering Tie Rod Ends for the 2013-2019 Audi S6
Restore your S6's sharp, responsive steering by understanding and choosing the right replacement tie rod ends.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing tie rod ends to prevent tire damage and ensure safety.
- Always replace tie rod ends in pairs (left and right) for balanced steering and to avoid a repeat repair.
- While replacing the outer tie rod, inspect the inner tie rod and its protective boot for wear or damage.
- Choosing a premium aftermarket brand like Delphi or Moog can provide OEM-level quality or better for your S6.
Is Your Audi S6 Steering Feeling Off? Signs of a Bad Tie Rod End
Because tie rods are constantly moving, they eventually wear out. Impacts from potholes or hitting a curb can also damage them. When a tie rod end fails, the ball-and-socket joint becomes loose, which directly impacts your steering control. Watch for these common symptoms:
- Vague or Loose Steering: You might notice a "dead spot" or excessive play in the steering wheel, requiring you to turn it more to get a response.
- Steering Wheel Vibration: A shaky steering wheel that gets worse as you accelerate or go around a corner is a classic sign of a loose tie rod.
- Clunking or Knocking Sounds: A distinct clunk or rattle from the front end, especially when turning at low speeds, points to a worn-out joint.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Inspect your front tires. If the inside or outside edges are wearing down much faster than the rest of the tread, a bad tie rod has likely thrown your alignment out of spec.
- Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If you constantly have to correct the steering wheel to keep your S6 driving straight, a failing tie rod could be the cause.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End for Your S6
You don't have to buy an expensive OEM part from the dealer. Aftermarket brands offer a range of options, but quality can vary. For a premium vehicle like the S6, it's best to avoid the cheapest parts. Here’s a breakdown of available brands:
Premium & OEM-Quality Brands
These brands are known for meeting or exceeding original equipment standards and are excellent choices for an S6. They often use high-quality materials and robust designs.
- Delphi: Widely considered a top-tier, OEM-level supplier. A very reliable choice for quality and longevity.
- Moog: Historically a go-to for durable, problem-solving suspension parts. While still a strong brand, some recent online discussions mention inconsistent quality, so it's wise to inspect the part upon arrival.
Mid-Range & Value Brands
These brands offer a good balance of price and performance for daily driving.
- Mevotech: Known for innovative designs and offering multiple quality tiers, such as their 'Supreme' line. They can be a solid value, but like Moog, experiences can be mixed.
- Vaico: Often mentioned as a reputable supplier for German vehicles, providing good quality that is a suitable alternative to OEM.
Economy Brands
While very affordable, these are generally not recommended for a high-performance vehicle like the S6 where steering precision is key.
- Dorman: Offers a vast catalog of budget-friendly parts. While they can be a cost-effective solution, their standard parts may not match the durability of premium brands.
- Suspensia: This is a budget-oriented brand. Forum feedback is limited and tends to be negative, making it a risky choice for your Audi.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
As of early 2026, there are no active safety recalls from the NHTSA specifically for the steering tie rod ends on the 2013-2019 Audi S6. However, Audi has issued several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for symptoms related to tie rod failure, such as steering vibrations, pulling to one side, and front-end noises. For example, TSB #A442303202256323 addresses steering wheel shimmy and vibration. This means that while a bad tie rod could be the cause, your technician should rule out other potential issues mentioned in these bulletins.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace a tie rod end depends on the part brand and local labor rates. An alignment is required after the job, which adds to the total cost.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Tie Rod End (Single) | $26 - $70 |
| New OEM Tie Rod End (Single) | $100 - $175 |
| Shop Labor (Pair) | $150 - $250 |
| Four-Wheel Alignment | $150 - $220 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I absolutely need a wheel alignment after replacing a tie rod?
Yes, 100%. Replacing a tie rod end, no matter how carefully, will change your vehicle's toe alignment. Skipping the alignment will cause poor handling, crooked steering wheel, and rapid, uneven tire wear. This step is not optional.
Should I replace tie rods in pairs?
It is highly recommended. Tie rods on both sides of the vehicle experience the same amount of wear and road conditions. If one has failed, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing them in pairs ensures balanced steering and saves you from paying for a second alignment down the road.
Should I replace the inner tie rod at the same time?
While you are replacing the outer tie rod end, it is a perfect time to inspect the inner tie rod. Have your mechanic check it for any play or looseness. Also, inspect the protective rubber boot (bellows) that covers the inner tie rod. If this boot is cracked or torn, it should be replaced to prevent the new inner joint from failing prematurely.
Is there a big difference between OEM and aftermarket tie rods for my S6?
For this part, a high-quality aftermarket brand like Delphi or Moog can be just as good, if not better, than the OEM part. Some aftermarket designs are all-metal, improving on the original rubber-damped design that can be a failure point. The key is to choose a reputable brand and avoid the cheapest options to maintain your S6's performance.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8K0422817B 8K0422818B
The steering system uses one outer tie rod end per front wheel, connecting the steering rack to the steering knuckle. Part numbers are specific for the left and right sides.
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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.
- Audi S6:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Audi S6 Steering Feeling Off? Signs of a Bad Tie Rod End
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End for Your S6
- Premium & OEM-Quality Brands
- Mid-Range & Value Brands
- Economy Brands
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
- Estimated Replacement Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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