Steering Tie Rod Assembly problems of the 2000 Audi A6

Failure of the front left tie rod and control arm in a 2000 Audi A6 quattro. Severe wobble causing near accident and vehicle in the ditch.

Premature failure of both tie rod ends and all upper control arms in front suspension, resulting in loose steering, difficulty in maintaining lane position, and vibration in steering while driving and braking. All tie rod ends and front suspension upper control arms (4) required replacement; if left not replaced, potential for catastrophic loss of steering and/or suspension collapse if any one of the 6 affected ball joints fail. Further failure of front right wheel bearing as a result of suspension play, and excessive asymmetrical wear on front tires. Audi recalled all 1999 models for the identical tie rod end rubber seal failure (NHTSA campaign 99v248000), and essentially the same seal design is used on the control arms. Audi only changed the tie rod design in 2003 rs6, meaning potentially all 2000-2004 A6 (and other models potentially) are affected. In addition Audi increased wheel size and weight substantially on newly introduced v8 A6 in 2000, but did not uprate the suspension; the 2003 rs6 change (also a v8) is further evidence of an excess loading problem. Old parts expected to be available.

Tie rod end failure. 2000 Audi A6; 52,000 miles. Tie rod ends were part of a recall campaign for 1998 and 1999 model years (2000 was not included), the part is / was reportedly corrected in later model years. Once covered under extended warranty provisions effective 4/30/2004 Audi no longer considers this a defective part; now stating that this is "normal wear and tear". Comment- a search of Audi related internet forums find many, many owners stating that this is a common failure component, related to separation of the rubber boot whereas the joint lubricant is contaminated and rapid wear is experienced. Repair cost, as quoted by dealer, is just under $400.

While driving at 20 mph tie rod assembly failed.

Tie rod ends wearing prematurely due to defective boot covers result in steering wheel wobble and steering difficulty.

Broken tie rods at 40,000 miles.