Lexus IS350 Steering Tie Rod End Guide (2017-2024)
Keep your Lexus IS350 steering tight and responsive by understanding when and how to replace your tie rod ends.
- A bad tie rod end on your IS350 will cause steering vibration, wandering, clunking noises, and uneven tire wear.
- Do not ignore symptoms; a complete failure can lead to a loss of steering control.
- For a Lexus, consider premium aftermarket brands like Moog or Delphi to maintain steering precision.
- A professional wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing tie rod ends to prevent unsafe handling and rapid tire wear.
Is Your IS350's Steering Feeling Off?
The steering on your 2017-2024 Lexus IS350 should feel precise and connected. If it starts to feel loose, makes noise, or if the car wanders on the road, you might have a failing steering tie rod end. These parts wear out over time from normal use and hitting bumps or potholes. A worn tie rod end is a safety issue because if it fails completely, you could lose steering control.
Signs of a Failing Tie Rod End on a Lexus IS350
- Steering Wheel Vibration: A shaky steering wheel, especially at higher speeds, is a common symptom. The looseness in the joint allows the wheel to vibrate.
- Loose or Vague Steering: You might feel a "dead spot" when you turn the wheel, or feel like you're constantly making small corrections to keep the car driving straight.
- Clunking or Popping Noises: Worn tie rods can make a clunking or rattling sound, especially when turning at low speeds, like in a parking lot.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A bad tie rod will throw off your wheel alignment, causing the inside or outside edges of your front tires to wear out much faster than the rest of the tire.
Known Issues & Recalls
While there are no specific steering tie rod recalls for the 2017-2024 Lexus IS350, a recall (NHTSA 17V-415) was issued for the 2017 Lexus ES350 due to a tie rod lock nut that may not have been properly tightened, which could lead to a loss of steering control. This highlights the critical nature of these components. No steering-related Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) were found for the 2017-2024 IS350.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End
When replacing your IS350's tie rod ends, you don't have to go back to the dealer. Aftermarket parts offer a wide range of quality and price. For a precision vehicle like a Lexus, it's important to choose a quality part to maintain its driving characteristics.
Brand Tiers for Your Lexus
- Premium Brands (Moog, Delphi): These brands are well-regarded in the aftermarket. Moog has a long history and is often considered a benchmark, known for strong, all-metal designs that sometimes exceed original equipment (OE) standards. Many Moog parts are greasable, which can extend their life if maintained. Delphi is also a strong choice, with a reputation for OE-level quality and corrosion-resistant coatings.
- Quality Mid-Range (Beck Arnley, Mevotech): Beck Arnley is a re-boxer, meaning they source parts from various manufacturers, sometimes even OE suppliers like Japan's '555' brand, which are excellent. The quality can vary, but they often provide good value. Mevotech offers a balance of affordability and quality, but some users report lower quality control compared to premium brands.
- Economy Brands (Dorman, Suspensia): These brands offer a cost-effective solution. Dorman provides direct replacement parts that are widely available and budget-friendly. They are suitable for drivers looking for a functional repair at a lower cost.
A Mechanic's Advice
For a performance-oriented car like the IS350, investing in a premium or high-quality mid-range brand is recommended to preserve the steering feel and ensure longevity. While economy parts will work, they may not last as long or provide the same precise feel as the original components. Also, always replace tie rod ends in pairs (both outer or both inner) to ensure even wear and handling. Finally, a wheel alignment is required after replacement.
| Brand Tier | Part Cost (per side) | Typical Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Premium | $60 - $80+ | Moog, Delphi |
| Mid-Range | $45 - $65 | Beck Arnley, Mevotech |
| Economy | $30 - $50 | Dorman, Suspensia |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace the inner and outer tie rods at the same time?
Not necessarily, but it's good practice. You should replace the specific part that has failed. However, if the outer tie rod is worn, the inner tie rod has likely experienced similar wear and may fail soon. Replacing them together can save you from paying for a second alignment down the road.
What's the difference between a greasable and sealed tie rod end?
Greasable tie rod ends have a zerk fitting that allows you to add new grease periodically, which can flush out contaminants and extend the part's life. Sealed units are maintenance-free but must be replaced when they wear out. The original Lexus parts are sealed. Aftermarket brands like Moog often offer greasable options.
Can I replace a tie rod end myself?
Yes, this is a feasible DIY job for someone with mechanical experience and the right tools, including a jack, jack stands, wrenches, and a tie rod separator (pickle fork). 🎬 Watch a step-by-step guide on replacing Lexus IS350 tie rod ends. However, a professional wheel alignment is absolutely necessary immediately after the repair to prevent rapid tire wear and ensure the vehicle drives straight.
Should I use an OEM Lexus part instead?
OEM parts are a guaranteed fit and quality, but they are significantly more expensive. High-quality aftermarket brands like Moog or Delphi can offer comparable or even improved designs (like greasable joints) for less money. For most owners, a quality aftermarket part provides the best balance of price and performance.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
The 2017-2024 Lexus IS350 uses an inner and an outer tie rod end on each front wheel. The outer tie rod end connects to the steering knuckle, while the inner tie rod connects to the steering rack. They are specific to the driver and passenger sides and may differ between RWD and AWD models.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Lexus IS350: