1999 Toyota Corolla Steering Vibration

PRASAD1983

MEMBER
1999 TOYOTA COROLLA
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
101,000 MILES

Hi
I am totally new to this group. I have 1999 Toyota Carolla whose steering vibrates considerably at speeds higher than 50 mph. Rotation of tires and wheel allignment couple of times did not solve the problem.

Another hightech shop proposed replacement of inner tie rods at a total cost of $550 ($200 for parts and $350 for labor). I am just wondering whether this problem is common and generally expected for this model at around 101k mileage, or it is the beginning of endless problems sucking good money after bad money.

I would really appreciate sharing your experience.

Thanks in advance
Prasad

1 Reply

ZACKMAN

MECHANIC
4,202 POSTS

A few things can cause high speed vibrations:
1. Faulty inner/outer tie rod ends
2. Faulty ball joints
3. Out of round wheels
4. Out of balance wheel

As you have performed wheel rotation and alignment with no avail, and with that many miles, I believe your tie rod ends are bad. Here is an easy way to check for tie rod ends. Raise the front end. Grab the front wheel at 3 and 9 o'clock position and pull/push them side to side. If you have movement more than 1/8", you should replace the tie rods. Don't just replace the inner tie rods, replace the outer as well. The inner and outer come out as a unit anyway (if you wish to remove just the inner).

it calls for 1.8 hours to replace both sides (all 4 tie rod ends). You do, however, have to perform an alignment right after.

You may wish to call around for better pricing than the place that quoted your 350 labor.