Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Asx-Tie rod end

2016 Mitsubishi ASX tie-rod-end — what it does and when to replace it

Yes, the 2016 Mitsubishi ASX is fitted with outer tie-rod ends. This is confirmed by Mitsubishi’s 2016 ASX Workshop Manual (Group 37: Steering) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for GA-series ASX/RVR/Outlander Sport, which show a rack-and-pinion steering gear with inner tie rods and outer tie-rod ends. The scheduled maintenance section in the factory manual also calls for periodic inspection of steering linkages, including tie-rod ends.

On this model, the tie-rod end is the small, hard-working ball-joint that links the steering rack to the steering knuckle at each front wheel. It turns the wheel when the driver moves the steering and holds the toe setting steady on the road. Because it’s a pivoting joint taking bumps, cornering loads and daily steering inputs, it will eventually wear, especially with rough roads or big potholes.

• Typical signs of wear: clunks over bumps, vague or wandering steering, a loose feel on turn-in, feathered or uneven tyre wear, and split or greasy dust boots.
• Inspection tip: with the vehicle safely lifted, a technician checks for free play at the wheel and at the joint itself while watching the joint under load.

Replacement is straightforward for a pro: separate the joint from the knuckle, count or measure the thread engagement to keep the toe close, then torque to the workshop spec and fit a new cotter pin where applicable. Because toe changes when a tie-rod end is disturbed, a wheel alignment is essential straight after the job. It’s smart to inspect the inner tie rods at the same time, if one end is worn, its mate or the inner joint may not be far behind.

1. Inspect at each service (about every 10,000–15,000 km) for boot condition, joint play and locking hardware condition.
2. Use quality parts with the correct taper for the ASX knuckle, avoid mixing left/right-handed threads.
3. After replacement: perform a proper alignment and road test to verify straight-line stability and steering return.

Most modern ASX tie-rod ends are sealed and don’t need greasing, if a boot is damaged or the joint feels gritty, it’s time to replace. Keeping these little joints tight and healthy protects tyres, keeps the ASX tracking true and maintains that light, accurate steering feel owners expect.

FAQs

How long do tie-rod ends last on a 2016 ASX?
Service life varies with driving and road conditions. Many last well past 100,000 km, but frequent corrugations, potholes or big wheels can shorten that. Regular inspections at service time help catch wear before it affects tyres or safety.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing a tie-rod end?
Absolutely. Any change to a tie-rod end affects toe, so a four-wheel alignment is recommended immediately after replacement to protect tyres and restore proper steering feel.

Is it safe to drive with a worn tie-rod end?
Not really. Excess play can cause vague steering, pulling and accelerated tyre wear. If there’s noticeable looseness or noise, it should be checked and repaired promptly to maintain safety and handling.