When it comes to steering precision, safety, and vehicle responsiveness, few components are as critical as the inner tie rod. Often overlooked until there's a problem, your inner tie rods connect the steering rack to the outer tie rods, translating steering wheel input directly to the wheels. Whether you're driving a daily BMW E36 or sliding a 350Z through a drift course, upgrading to heavy-duty inner tie rods can dramatically improve your car’s steering performance and reliability.
In this blog, we’ll explain what inner tie rods do, how they differ from outer tie rods, signs they need replacing, and why SLR’s HD inner tie rods are the top choice for racing and drifting applications.
🔧 Looking for performance inner tie rods? Check out our full collection here:
👉 SLRspeed Inner Tie Rods
What is an Inner Tie Rod?
The inner tie rod is the part of your steering system that connects directly to the steering rack or steering gear box. It acts as the first pivot point, transmitting force from the rack to the outer tie rod, which then turns the wheels.
Key functions of an inner tie rod include:
-
Translating steering input from the rack to the wheels
-
Allowing pivot motion during suspension articulation
-
Maintaining proper toe alignment and front-end geometry
If your steering feels loose, inconsistent, or clunky, a worn inner tie rod could be the cause.
Inner Tie Rod vs Outer Tie Rod – What’s the Difference?
While both parts work together, they serve slightly different roles:
| Component | Location | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Inner Tie Rod | Connects to steering rack | Transfers steering motion outward |
| Outer Tie Rod | Connects to the spindle | Turns the wheel and adjusts toe |
Replacing only the outer tie rod won’t help if the inner rod is worn or flexing — which is especially common in high-load applications like drifting or circuit racing.
When Should You Replace Inner Tie Rods?
There are several signs your inner tie rods may need replacement or an upgrade:
✅ Loose steering or excessive play
✅ Clunking noises over bumps or while turning
✅ Uneven tire wear from poor toe alignment
✅ Poor response or delay in steering input
✅ Visible damage, bent tubes, or leaking boots
For stock cars, these symptoms might appear gradually. But for drift cars, track builds, or cars with angle kits, inner tie rods are a common wear point due to extreme steering angles and higher lateral loads.
Why Choose SLR Inner Tie Rods?
At SLRspeed, we don’t just offer replacement tie rods—we engineer motorsports-grade steering solutions. Our HD inner tie rods are built for racing, drifting, and extreme duty, offering:
🔩 High-strength construction – CNC machined components built to withstand heavy loads.
📏 Multiple lengths available – To suit a wide range of suspension setups and angle kits.
🎯 Tighter tolerances – For better steering feedback and faster response.
🛠 Designed to pair with our angle kits – For maximum steering angle without compromise.
Whether you drive an E36, E46, S13, 350Z, Corvette, or even a Smart car, we likely have an inner tie rod to match.
👉 Explore All SLR Inner Tie Rod Options
Custom Fitment – Inner Tie Rods for Every Build
We stock inner tie rods and tie rod tubes in a variety of lengths to suit:
-
BMW (E30, E36, E46, E90, Z3, Z4)
-
Nissan (S13, S14, S15, 350Z, 370Z)
-
Porsche (911, Cayman, etc.)
-
Chevrolet (C5, C6 Corvette)
-
Ford Mustang (SN95, S197)
-
Smart Car builds, and more
With 89mm to 255mm tie rod tube lengths and HD inner tie rod options, SLR ensures you can dial in your geometry whether you're chasing maximum steering angle or track-perfect precision.
How to Choose the Right Inner Tie Rod
Choosing the right inner tie rod depends on your:
-
Chassis
-
Control arm and knuckle setup
-
Steering rack style (OEM vs modified)
-
Desired steering angle and geometry
Our tie rod collection includes detailed product specs, and we’re constantly adding more chassis-specific options. Pair with SLR tie rod tubes and outer tie rod ends for a complete system.
Final Thoughts – Don’t Sleep on Your Steering Setup
Upgrading your coilovers and angle kit means nothing if your steering linkage can’t keep up. The inner tie rod is a critical link in your drift or track build, and skimping on quality can lead to premature failure — or worse, a loss of steering under load.
If you’re serious about dialing in your steering performance, make sure you’re running SLR’s inner tie rods, built to take the abuse that real-world driving and competition demand.
🔧 Ready to upgrade?
👉 Shop All SLR Inner Tie Rods & Tie Rod Tubes Now
