How Long do Tie Rod Ends Last?
Tie rods could last as long as you own the vehicle, but this is usually the exception rather than the rule.
The Life of a Tie Rod End
The tie rod ends are essentially a wear and tear part in that the smooth, lubricated metal surfaces inside are designed to handle a lot of friction, but eventually natural wear will cause looseness in the tie rod ends and your steering.
This is without even considering the possibility of circumstances that could cause the joint to wear prematurely. If moisture enters the joint you could end up with corrosion that will break down the articulating surfaces. Debris could make it's way into the joint and even something as insignificant as some sand could be problematic as it is ground between the stud and bearing of the joint. Also, rougher than average driving conditions can put extra stress on the tie rod and accelerate the wear process. All of these factors can affect the lifespan of a tie rod.
