1996 Mazda 626 tie rod end or control arm bushings?

RUFIO651

MEMBER
1996 MAZDA 626
4 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
173,600 MILES

I have a 96 mazda 626 dx and when I bought the car the kid told me that the tie rod end was no good in it. Now this is on the left front of the car also when I bought it the tire on that side was bald. When I get in the car the suspension makes a small squeak this same noise happens when I hit a bump on the road. Also the car pulls to the left side when im driving it and when I turn the wheel I hear the same noise. Now my question is. Is it the tie rod end I should replace or the control arm bushings? And also is it safe to drive like this or should I take it off the road untill I repair it?

1 Reply

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

Hi there,

the symptoms are consistent with both a faulty tie rod end and a suspension bush issue, I would be doing the Tie rod end ASAP you don't want a steering failure while driving. Do that ASAP.I would also be checking the lower ball joint & checking components on both sides as well.

Mark (mhpautos)