2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Tie Rod End Replacement (WK2)

Here's exactly how I replace the outer tie rod end on a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK2 platform) — the most accessible steering repair there is, and one that directly affects vehicle safety. Worn tie rod ends cause wandering steering, uneven tire wear, and in advanced cases, loss of steering control.

What You'll Need

• Outer tie rod end: Moog ES800256 or equivalent for 2015 WK2 Grand Cherokee (confirm FWD, RWD, or 4WD fitment)
• 21mm wrench (tie rod end jam nut)
• 19mm socket (castle nut)
• Tie rod end puller/separator or ball joint fork
• Torque wrench
• New cotter pin (check kit — some aftermarket tie rod ends include one, some don't)
• Needle-nose pliers (for cotter pin)
• Thread count gauge or chalk/paint pen (to count jam nut turns for alignment reference)
• Alignment equipment or budget for an alignment shop

Estimated time: 45–60 minutes per side Estimated cost: $40–$70 per side in parts (vs. $300–$450 per side at a Jeep dealer)

Before You Start on Your 2015 Grand Cherokee

The tie rod end is the ball-and-socket joint connecting the outer steering knuckle to the steering rack via the tie rod shaft. On the 2015 WK2 Grand Cherokee, the outer tie rod end is serviceable separately from the inner — you don't need to replace the whole tie rod assembly unless the inner end is worn too (check it while you're there — if it has similar play, do both).

Test for worn tie rod ends: raise the front of the vehicle so the tire is off the ground. Grab the tire at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions and push/pull alternately. Any looseness or clunking with no corresponding wheel hub movement indicates a worn tie rod end.

After replacing any tie rod end, the vehicle requires a front wheel alignment. Budget $80–$120 for an alignment immediately after this job.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Raise and support the front of the vehicle — Jack from the subframe, place jack stands, remove the front wheel (21mm lug nuts).
2. Count the tie rod end turns before removal — Using chalk or a paint marker, make a reference mark on the tie rod threads so you know how far the new end is threaded in. Count the number of turns from fully threaded to its current position.
3. Remove the cotter pin from the castle nut — Use needle-nose pliers to straighten the cotter pin and pull it out. Do not reuse the old cotter pin.
4. Remove the castle nut — 19mm socket. Remove completely.
5. Separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle — The tapered stud is friction-fit in the knuckle. Use a tie rod end separator tool or a pickle fork to separate the joint.
6. Unscrew the outer tie rod end from the tie rod shaft — Use the 21mm wrench to loosen the jam nut first (counterclockwise). Once the jam nut is loose, unscrew the tie rod end from the shaft. Count the turns as it comes off.
7. Compare old and new — The new tie rod end should be the same length when threaded to the same depth.
8. Install the new tie rod end — Thread the new end onto the shaft the same number of turns as the old one. Snug the jam nut (don't fully tighten yet — alignment may require minor adjustment at the shop).
9. Insert the stud into the steering knuckle — Guide the stud into the knuckle taper and press it home. Install the castle nut.
10. Torque the castle nut to 85 ft-lbs (115 Nm) — This is the WK2 Grand Cherokee specification. Tighten to 85 ft-lbs, then continue tightening until the next castle slot aligns with the cotter pin hole. Do not back off to align the hole — only advance.
11. Install a NEW cotter pin — Insert the cotter pin through the hole and bend the ends to lock it. Never skip this step on any ball-joint or tie rod end fastener.
12. Reinstall wheel, torque lug nuts to 110 ft-lbs (149 Nm) in a star pattern.
13. Drive directly to an alignment shop — Do not drive extensively on the vehicle until alignment is completed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping alignment — Even if your reference mark puts the tie rod exactly where it was, the geometry shifted when you separated the old joint. Alignment is required.
• Reusing the cotter pin — Cotter pins are single-use. New pin, every time.
• Backing off the castle nut to align the cotter pin hole — Always advance to the next hole. Backing off reduces clamping force.

For the full 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintenance guide — brakes, shocks, oil, spark plugs — get the full repair library at OwnerDrop — starting at $29.99/mo.

---

Related guides: How to inspect ball joints yourself | DIY wheel alignment check