2016 Scion iM Steering Tie Rod End: A Replacement Guide
Experiencing steering wander or clunking noises? Your 2016 Scion iM might need new tie rod ends.
- A bad tie rod end on a 2016 Scion iM will cause loose steering, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
- Immediate professional wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing a tie rod end to prevent unsafe handling and rapid tire damage.
- Premium aftermarket brands like Moog and Delphi are excellent choices, while mid-grade options offer a balance of price and quality.
- There are no steering-related safety recalls for the 2016 Scion iM; wear and tear is the expected cause of failure.
Is Your Scion iM's Steering Feeling Off?
The 2016 Scion iM is known for its reliability, essentially being a Toyota Corolla Hatchback in disguise. However, like any vehicle, its steering and suspension components are subject to wear. If you're noticing that your iM isn't handling as crisply as it used to, or you're hearing new noises from the front end, a worn steering tie rod end could be the culprit. This is a common wear item, and replacing it is key to maintaining safe and precise steering control.
Safety First: The Importance of Tie Rods
A failing tie rod end is a serious safety issue. In a worst-case scenario, a complete failure can cause you to lose steering control of a wheel. If you suspect your tie rod ends are bad, it's important to have them inspected and replaced as soon as possible.
Symptoms of a Bad Tie Rod End on a 2016 Scion iM
Worn tie rod ends will give you several warning signs. Pay attention to these symptoms, as they often start subtly and worsen over time.
- Steering Wheel "Play" or Looseness: The steering may feel vague, loose, or unresponsive. You might have to turn the steering wheel more than usual before the wheels respond.
- Clunking or Popping Noises: You may hear a distinct clunking or popping sound from the front of the car, especially during low-speed turns like parking.
- Vibration in the Steering Wheel: A shaky steering wheel, particularly at higher speeds, can be caused by a loose tie rod end allowing the wheel to shimmy.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A bad tie rod end will throw off your wheel alignment, causing the inside or outside edges of your front tires to wear down much faster than the rest of the tread.
- Vehicle Pulling or Wandering: The car may pull to one side, requiring you to make constant steering corrections to drive straight.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End
Since the Scion iM is a Toyota underneath, you can expect good quality from the original parts. However, aftermarket brands offer a range of options that can meet or exceed OEM quality, often at a better price. Here’s a breakdown of the available brands to help you choose.
Brand Quality Tiers
Not all aftermarket parts are created equal. They generally fall into a few quality categories:
- Premium Brands (Moog, Delphi): These brands are often considered OE-equivalent or even an upgrade. They use high-quality materials and often feature improvements like greaseable fittings for longer life. Moog, in particular, is well-regarded for its durable "Problem Solver" line and robust construction. Delphi is also a top-tier OEM supplier known for quality.
- Mid-Grade / Standard Brands (Beck/Arnley, Mevotech): These brands offer a good balance of quality and value. Beck/Arnley is known for sourcing parts from OEM manufacturers, so you might get an original-quality part in their box. Mevotech offers decent quality for daily driving, though some users report mixed experiences regarding longevity compared to premium brands.
- Value Brands (Dorman, Suspensia): These brands provide cost-effective solutions. Dorman offers a wide range of parts and can be a good budget-friendly choice for a daily driver. Suspensia is typically positioned as an economy option. While functional, they may not offer the same longevity or robust features as higher-priced alternatives.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs and Get an Alignment
It is highly recommended to replace both the left and right outer tie rod ends at the same time. If one has failed due to age and mileage, the other is likely not far behind. Crucially, a professional wheel alignment is required immediately after replacing tie rod ends. Skipping the alignment will cause poor handling and rapid, uneven tire wear, wasting the money you just spent on new parts and tires.
Cost to Replace 2016 Scion iM Tie Rod Ends
Here is a general cost breakdown. Prices can vary based on your location and choice of repair shop.
| Item | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Tie Rod End (Part Only) | $28.88 - $49.04 | This is the price range for a single part from the brands listed. |
| New OEM Tie Rod End (Part Only) | ~$105 | Based on average pricing for genuine Toyota/Scion parts. |
| Shop Labor | $49 - $72 | This is the estimated labor cost for replacing one tie rod end. |
| Wheel Alignment | $125 - $269 | This is a mandatory step after replacement. Prices vary significantly by shop type. |
| Total Estimated Cost (Aftermarket) | $202 - $390 | Includes one part, labor, and alignment. Add the cost of a second part if replacing in pairs. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there any recalls or TSBs for the 2016 Scion iM steering?
There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the steering tie rod ends on the 2016 Scion iM. The only recall found was related to an accessory load label, not mechanical steering components. A TSB for other models mentioned a potential for water intrusion in the steering gear, but this is a separate issue from tie rod end wear.
Can I replace a Scion iM tie rod end myself?
Yes, this is a DIY-feasible job for someone with moderate mechanical skill and the right tools (like a tie rod end puller). The process involves lifting the vehicle, removing the wheel, loosening a jam nut, and separating the tie rod from the steering knuckle. However, you MUST get a professional alignment immediately afterward, which cannot be done at home.
What's the difference between an inner and outer tie rod end?
The outer tie rod end connects directly to your wheel's steering knuckle and is the part that most commonly wears out. The inner tie rod end connects to the steering rack itself and is usually protected by a rubber boot. Inner tie rods tend to last much longer and are more difficult to replace. The symptoms described in this article primarily point to a failing outer tie rod end.
Should I choose a greaseable or sealed tie rod end?
Some premium aftermarket brands like Moog offer greaseable tie rod ends. These have a small fitting (zerk) that allows you to add fresh grease periodically, which can flush out contaminants and extend the part's life. Sealed units are maintenance-free, just like the original part. If you perform your own maintenance, a greaseable part can be a long-lasting upgrade. If not, a high-quality sealed part from a brand like Delphi or Beck/Arnley is an excellent choice.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 45046-19415 45047-19215
The 2016 Scion iM uses a MacPherson strut front suspension with electric power steering. It requires one outer tie rod end per front wheel (left and right are different parts).
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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.
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- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Scion iM's Steering Feeling Off?
- Safety First: The Importance of Tie Rods
- Symptoms of a Bad Tie Rod End on a 2016 Scion iM
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs and Get an Alignment
- Cost to Replace 2016 Scion iM Tie Rod Ends
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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