Loose inner tie rods?

[DrJ]

My sons front tires became really worn this spring. Bought 2 used tires and they said the inner tie rods were loose. $350 to fix with alignment. Is this a safety issue, he leaves for college in August and the car(96 regal with 225,000 miles) will be sold.Or junked.Should I get this repair done or not. Thanks for any advice DrJ.

[Scott K]

Loose tie rod ends are a safety issue, but it depends on how loose they are. Assuming from the fast tire wear, I would say they are pretty loose! What can happen is the inner tie rod end can pop out of its socket and that tire would turn sharply with no control!

[fishing tech]

Exactly, I have seen them come apart. If that happens you are walking, getting towed, or in a friend of mine's case the car flipped. Get it fixed.

[Jeremy airjer W]

Ditto!

[DrJ]

Thanks for the quick replies. I'll get it scheduled in morning. DrJ.