Nissan Repair: 1999 nissan altima, inner tie rod, nissan altima

Question
i have a 1999 nissan altima. it looks like the tire rod has snapped. how do i replace or fix it?

Answer
Lei,

The tie rod has an inner and outer part.  I would assume that the connection between them has failed?  If this is the case you will need the boot that goes on the end of the rack along with an inner and outer tie rod end.  Also, you will need the speciality socket which is a really long socket to fit over the inner tie rod to get the nut off that holds it to the end of the rack.  Usually, around twenty turns holds the outer tie rod to the inner one.  If this connection is good count how many times you have to turn the old one to get it off.  Duplicate this when you reinstall and that should be close to having the car aligned.  Now, take the car and get an alignment.  Nissan's are sensitive to having the steering centered due to the pressure switch that actuates the power steering so be sure the steering wheel is centered when you drive after the car is aligned.  If not, go back and have the alignment shop repeat the process until the car drives straight with the wheel straight.