Tie-Rod End Replacement

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the snap pin.
Loosen the tie-rod end locknut.

Fig 1: Identifying Tie-Rod End Locknut And Snap Pin
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Detach the tie-rod end from the steering knuckle using the SST .
Remove the tie-rod end locknut.

Fig 2: Removing Tie-Rod End Locknut
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Place alignment marks as shown in the figure for proper installation.

Fig 3: Placing Alignment Marks On Tie-Rod End
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Remove the tie-rod end.

Fig 4: Identifying Tie-Rod End
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Align the alignment marks made before removing the tie-rod end, and then install a new tie-rod end to the tie rod.

Fig 5: Alignment Marks On Tie-Rod End With Torque Specifications
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- "R" is inscribed on the right side of the tie-rod end and "L" is inscribed on the left side of the tie-rod end. Verify if the part is for the left or right side before installation because the left and right parts of the tie-rod end have different shapes.
Fig 6: Identifying Tie-Rod End (Left/Right)
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
- If there are no alignment marks, go to the following procedure.
Adjust dimension A shown in the figure to the standard, and assemble.
Standard Dimension A

17.7-30.7 mm {0.70-1.20 in}

Fig 7: Identifying Tie-Rod End Dimension A
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Install the tie-rod end to the steering knuckle.
Install a new snap pin.
After installation, inspect the front wheel alignment and adjust it if necessary. (See FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT .)

Fig 8: Tie-Rod End Nut With Torque Specifications
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.