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Your car's steering and suspension keep the tyres in contact with the road, let you steer precisely and soak up bumps. Here's a straightforward guide to the six main component types Teknorot makes, what each one does and what to look out for when they wear.
Also called a rod end or outer tie rod
Example: T-151The tie rod end is the pivoting link between your steering rack and the wheel hub. When you turn the steering wheel, the rack pushes or pulls on the tie rod, and the tie rod end lets the wheel turn smoothly while the suspension moves up and down.
Signs of wear: Loose or vague steering, a knocking noise over bumps, uneven tyre wear on the inner or outer edge, or the car pulling to one side.
Also called an inner tie rod or rack end
Example: HY-703The axial joint screws into the end of the steering rack and connects to the tie rod end. It carries steering movement outwards to the wheels and allows the joint to articulate as the suspension travels.
Signs of wear: Play in the steering, clunking when turning at low speed, and wheel alignment that won't hold.
Also called a sway bar link or anti-roll bar link
Example: B-158AStabiliser links connect the anti-roll (sway) bar to the suspension. They help keep the car level through corners by sharing load between the left and right wheels, reducing body roll.
Signs of wear: Rattling or knocking over uneven roads or speed bumps, and more body lean than usual when cornering.
A type of control arm, often triangular or A-shaped
Example: R-745SA wishbone locates the wheel relative to the car's body. It lets the wheel move up and down while keeping it in the correct position, using bushes where it mounts to the body and a joint where it meets the hub.
Signs of wear: Clunking on braking or acceleration, wandering on the road, steering wheel vibration, or visibly cracked or perished bushes.
The suspension's pivot point
Example: B-306A ball joint works like a hip joint: a ball inside a socket that lets the hub pivot for steering while the suspension moves. It connects the control arm or wishbone to the steering knuckle.
Signs of wear: Creaking or knocking from the front end, uneven tyre wear, and wheel play when the car is lifted. A badly worn ball joint is a serious safety risk.
A control arm supplied with its ball joint fitted
Example: AF-409A track control arm combines the arm and ball joint into one assembly. It controls the wheel's position and movement, keeping alignment stable as the suspension works. Replacing it as one unit saves fitting time and gives new bushes and a new joint together.
Signs of wear: Knocking, poor straight-line stability, steering pulling under braking and uneven tyre wear.
Steering and suspension parts are safety-critical. For safe and correct operation they must be fitted by trained technicians, following the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. Teknorot accepts no responsibility for parts fitted incorrectly, improperly or without following safety standards.
Steering parts, such as tie rod ends and axial joints, transfer your steering input to the wheels. Suspension parts, such as ball joints, wishbones, control arms and stabiliser links, hold the wheels in place and control how they move over the road. Many components do both jobs, which is why they are often grouped together.
Common signs are loose or wandering steering, a knock over bumps, a steering wheel that is off-centre and tyres wearing on one edge. A mechanic can confirm it by lifting the car and checking for play at the wheel.
It is not recommended. A badly worn ball joint can separate, causing loss of steering control. If you suspect a worn ball joint, have the vehicle inspected as soon as possible.
It connects the anti-roll bar to the suspension so the bar can reduce body roll when cornering. Worn links usually cause a rattle or knock over uneven surfaces.
Yes. Replacing tie rod ends, axial joints, control arms or wishbones changes wheel geometry. A wheel alignment and test drive should always follow the fitting work.
It is good practice to replace parts such as tie rod ends, stabiliser links and control arms on both sides of an axle, so handling stays balanced. Your mechanic can advise based on the condition of the other side.
No. Self-locking nuts and bolts tightened to a set torque should not be reused. Replace them with new fasteners that match the vehicle manufacturer's specification.
Both locate the wheel. A track control arm is generally supplied as a complete assembly with the ball joint already fitted, while some wishbones are supplied without a joint or have it fitted separately.
These are safety-critical parts. They should be fitted by a trained technician following the vehicle manufacturer's instructions, using correct tools and tightening torques.
Use our Parts Finder to search by registration (REGO), VIN, vehicle or OE number. If you are unsure, send us an enquiry and our team will help confirm fitment.
Our team can help confirm fitment or recommend the right steering and suspension parts for your vehicle.
