Ford Escape Steering Tie Rod End Replacement Guide (2011-2020)
Fix your Escape's loose steering, clunking noises, or uneven tire wear by understanding and replacing the tie rod ends.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing tie rod ends to prevent severe tire wear.
- Pay close attention to your vehicle's year; parts for 2011-2012 models are different from 2013-2019 and 2020 models.
- Premium aftermarket brands like Moog and TRW often feature greaseable fittings and stronger designs for improved longevity.
- It is best practice to replace tie rod ends in pairs to maintain balanced steering.
Understanding the Ford Escape Generation Gap: 2011-2012 vs. 2013-2020
The 2011-2020 year range for the Ford Escape covers three different vehicle generations. It is critical to order the correct part for your specific year.
- 2011-2012: These years are part of the second generation. The tie rod ends for these models are specific to this generation and its platform mates (Mercury Mariner, Mazda Tribute).
- 2013-2019: This is the third generation, which was a complete redesign. These models use different tie rod ends than the previous generation.
- 2020: This is the first year of the fourth generation, featuring another redesign and different parts.
Pro Tip: Double-Check Your Year
Before ordering, always verify the part fits your exact year. The parts for a 2012 Escape will not fit a 2013 Escape, and vice-versa. This is the most common ordering mistake.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Tie Rod End
A worn tie rod end will introduce "play" or looseness into the steering system. You may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- Loose or Vague Steering: A feeling of excessive play in the steering wheel, where you can turn it slightly without the wheels responding immediately.
- Clunking or Knocking Noises: A distinct clunk or rattle from the front end, especially when turning at low speeds or going over bumps. This is the sound of the loose joint moving around.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A bad tie rod end throws off the wheel alignment, often causing the inside or outside edge of a tire to wear down much faster than the rest.
- Steering Wheel Vibration: A shaky or vibrating steering wheel that gets worse as you increase speed or turn.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Tie Rod End
When replacing the original Motorcraft tie rod ends, you have a wide range of aftermarket options. They generally fall into three quality tiers.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium Brands (Moog, TRW, ACDelco Professional): These brands are often considered equal to or better than the original part. Moog is well-known for its "Problem Solver" designs, which may include greaseable fittings for longer life and stronger internal components. TRW is a major manufacturer of original equipment (OEM) parts for many car companies, so their quality is typically very high.
- OEM-Equivalent Brands (Motorcraft, Delphi, Beck/Arnley): Motorcraft is Ford's own parts brand, so it is the direct original replacement. Delphi and Beck/Arnley are reputable brands that focus on matching the fit, form, and function of the original part.
- Economy Brands (Dorman, QuickSteer, Suspensia, and others): These brands offer a cost-effective solution. Dorman is known for making a huge variety of replacement parts and sometimes offers design improvements, though quality can be inconsistent depending on the specific part. They can be a good choice for budget-conscious repairs, but may not have the same long-term durability as premium options.
Known Issues: Steering Recalls
Ford issued a recall (NHTSA #14V284, Ford #14S05) for 2008-2011 Escapes related to the electric power steering's torque sensor. This could cause a sudden loss of power assist, making the vehicle harder to steer. While this recall does not directly involve the tie rod ends, it's a known issue with the steering system in this generation. There are also many owner complaints about power steering failure on 2013 models, though no recall has been issued for the tie rods themselves.
Replacement Costs for Ford Escape Tie Rod Ends
The cost to replace a tie rod end depends on the part quality and labor rates in your area. An alignment is required after the job, which adds to the total cost.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part (Single) | $15 - $118 |
| Shop Labor (Part Installation) | $95 - $150 |
| Wheel Alignment | $80 - $120 |
| Total Estimated Cost (One Side) | $190 - $388 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need an alignment after replacing tie rod ends?
Yes, absolutely. Replacing a tie rod end, even if you try to match the old one's position, will change your vehicle's wheel alignment. Skipping the alignment will cause rapid and uneven tire wear, costing you much more in the long run.
Should I replace tie rod ends in pairs?
It is highly recommended. If one tie rod end has failed due to age and wear, the other side is likely not far behind. Replacing them in pairs ensures balanced steering feel and saves you from having to do the same job (and get another alignment) in the near future.
What's the difference between inner and outer tie rods?
Your Escape has both. The outer tie rod end connects to the steering knuckle behind the wheel and is the most commonly replaced part. The inner tie rod connects to the steering rack and is covered by a flexible rubber boot. It's a good practice to inspect the inner tie rod for play whenever you are replacing the outer one.
How can I check if my tie rod end is bad?
Safely jack up the front of the vehicle and support it on jack stands. Grab the tire at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions and try to wiggle it back and forth. If you feel play or hear a clunking noise, have someone watch the outer tie rod end as you wiggle the wheel. Visible play in the joint means it needs to be replaced.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: YL8Z-3280-EA (2011-2012) AL8Z-3280-B (2011-2012) AV6Z-3280-E (2013-2019) LX6Z-3280-A (2020+)
The key specifications are the model year generation (2011-2012, 2013-2019, or 2020) and whether you need the inner or outer tie rod end. They are side-specific on some generations.
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.
- Ford Escape: