Tire rod for 93 Pontiac Grand Prix

[bri76]

My tire blew out and the tow guy thought my tire rod broke off. I know NOTHING about cars. And I'd like to know what tire rods are and generally if they are an expensive or cheap item. It's in a shop waiting to worked on in the morning, but in the meantime I'd like some info about this if anyone has any?
Thanks!

[Chazman]

It is a pivot point for your steering - one on either side.

The part is fairly inexpensive, but you will most likely need a wheel alighnment afterwards.

[nscrfn]

It's as simple as loosening the lock nut on top and removing cotter pin if equiped.then using a fork(looks kinda like a tuning fork,u can rent one at most auto parts stores.) stick that between tie rod end and knuckle on spindle and hit with hammer to seperate.But first be sure to mark the jam nut on the tie rod end with a piece of tape as referance
so that when u install the new one it will be near where it is supposed to be then have the front end alligned.

[Melvyn_with_a_GTP]

i had a shop say i needed to replace my tierod ends, then another shop said they were okay. my front end is out some way so i thought i would change them myself and save install charges. Does anyone know where i can find detailed instuctions on changing these? thanks!

[Chazman]

Most auto parts stores sell manuals.

[dwalmop]

the OUTER tie rod is easy to replace. The Inner isn't quite as simple. You need a special deep socket. hopefully, this isn't what's broken on your car.