Parts for your 2017 Subaru Exiga-Tie rod end

2017 Subaru Exiga tie-rod end — purpose, service and replacement advice

Yes, the 2017 Subaru Exiga (including the Crossover 7 variant) uses outer tie-rod ends as part of its rack-and-pinion steering. This is confirmed by Subaru’s Factory Service Manual steering section for the Exiga/Crossover 7 platform and the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue, which both list outer tie-rod ends (LH/RH) for this model.

The tie-rod end links the steering rack to the steering knuckle, turning the front wheels and setting the toe angle. It’s a compact ball-joint with a protective dust boot, designed to cope with constant steering input and road movement. When it’s in good nick, steering feels tight and precise, when it’s worn, the Exiga can wander, shimmy and chew out tyres faster than it should.

As part of routine servicing, the tie-rod ends deserve a quick once-over. A tech will check the dust boots for splits or grease seepage, feel for play at the wheel with the suspension loaded and unloaded, and look for uneven tyre wear that hints at toe issues. Subaru’s service information calls for replacement if there’s measurable free play or boot damage, followed by a proper wheel alignment.

• Common signs it’s time: clunks over bumps, vague or wandering steering, feathered or rapid inner/outer tyre wear, torn boots or visible rust at the joint.
• Driving on rough roads, regular kerb knocks, and oversized wheels can accelerate wear.

When replacement is needed, it’s a straightforward job for a workshop with the right pullers and alignment gear. Best practice is to count the exposed threads or measure the tie-rod length on removal to keep the new end close to the original setting, then finish with a four-wheel alignment to factory specs. New self-locking hardware or a fresh split pin (where applicable) should be used, and all fasteners torqued to the figures in the Subaru service manual.

• Inspect at each service or every 10,000–15,000 km.
• Replace in pairs if both sides show wear, or at least assess the opposite side closely.
• After installation: alignment, a short road test, and a recheck for any weeps or looseness.

Popular questions about 2017 Subaru Exiga tie-rod ends

How long do tie-rod ends last on a 2017 Exiga?
Service life varies with roads and driving style. Many see well over 80,000–120,000 km, but frequent rough-road use or potholes can shorten that. Regular inspections catch wear early, saving tyres and keeping the steering sharp.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing a tie-rod end?
Absolutely. Even if the new end is set close to the old length, the toe will rarely be perfect. A professional alignment brings the Exiga back to spec, protecting tyres and restoring straight-line stability.

What are the tell-tale signs a tie-rod end is failing?
Look and listen for steering play, knocking over bumps, and uneven or rapid tyre wear on the front axle. A torn dust boot or grease leaking from the joint is also a clear indicator it’s time to replace the part.