Audi A8 Tie Rod Information

In this article we will discuss different types of Audi A8 tie rods. How to determine which part of the tie rod should be replaced. Some preventative Audi A8 tie rod maintenance. Also, through the years Audi A8 have made several updates in tie rod designs. See how using the updated and improved Audi A8 tie rods can improve driving quality. Also, what are Audi A8 tie rod supersessions and part number updates?

How to Determine Which Part of The Audi A8 Tie Rod to Replace

Three worn tie rod scenarios could exist:

1. The tie rod could be loose at the outer ball joint end. If the outer tie rod end is loose you can just replace this portion of the A8 Audi tie rod.
2. The tie rod could be loose in the internal link that is embedded in rubber (see Image 2). If this internal tie rod link is loose you can just replace the outer A8 Audi tie rod end.
3. The tie rod could also be loose at the inner joint beneath the tie rod boot. If the inner tie rod end joint is loose, replace your entire Audi A8 tie rod assembly. However, if the outer tie rod end was recently replaced, you may just wish to replace the inner Audi A8 tie rod end.

Audi A8 Tie Rod End & Assembly Maintenance

When replacing the entire Audi A8 tie rod assembly or just the Audi A8 inner tie rod ends, we always recommend replacing the Audi Volkswagen tie rod boot (also called tie rod bellows). If you are replacing just the tie rod end be sure to inspect the tie rod boot for signs of aging. The Audi A8 tie rod boot is plastic and prone to stress cracks. This is important preventative Audi A8 tie rod maintenance and can help prevent premature Audi A8 tie rod wear. Replacing the Audi A8 tie rod boot at the same time as the inner tie rod end will also save you money in the long run. Too, it's important to note that there are two possible Audi A8 tie rod boot sizes in the 1997 chassis. The vin splits given by Audi A8 are so close and have proved to be incorrect in some instances. There is a 7.5" Audi A8 tie rod boot and a 10" Audi A8 tie rod boot in 1997 (see picture to right). Customers will need to verify which size they have. Please Note: This measurement should be made when the Audi A8 tie rod boot is taken off the car and uncompressed. We've made this replacement easy by putting together a convenient kit which includes the Audi A8 tie rod boot (bellow) which covers the Audi A8 inner tie rod end, securing clamps, securing bolt, and high pressure moly grease for lubrication the tie rod inner joint (see picture below).

In the event of a failure of Audi A8 tie rod ends or assemblies, your Audi A8 parts specialist has the solution. Some original Audi A8 tie rods have a link in between the ball joint and the tie rod end which is embedded in rubber (see OEM Version in Image 2). Thanks to power steering, drivers no longer feel the great force caused when turning the steering wheel. These forces create significant surface pressure on the Audi A8 tie rod ball pin in the bearing shell. Continuous or extreme dynamic strain as well as corrosion on the tie rod can cause Audi A8 tie rod failure. Audi A8 tie rod failure reveals itself by squeaking and rattling along with a loose steering feel. Blauparts improved Audi tie rod version has eliminated the susceptible rubber element on the Audi tie rod end, replacing it with a full metal version with minimum or no increase in steering vibration. Another big improvement is the increased Audi tie rod ball pin diameter, which improves load-capability and translates into a longer Audi tie rod service life. This increase on the Audi tie rod ball joint diameter is from 22mm to 27mm which translates into longer tie rod service life.

Our Audi A8 tie rods are improved for nearly all 1997-2003 Audi models! German, Italian and European Audi A8 tie rod suppliers at great prices. Plus,using our decades of hands on Audi A8 tie rod removal and repair experience we have made tie rod and tie rod assembly easier for you with our Audi A8 tie rod boot kits and tie rod assembly kits. Everything you need to conveniently replace your tie rods. We also carry a full line of high-quality updated Audi A8 suspension components (i.e. control arms, control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rods and sway bar links)!

What are Audi A8 Tie Rod Part Number & Supersession Updates

Your dealer may give you a different Audi tie rod part number. This is because Audi A8 has had numerous supersessions on tie rod ends and tie rod assemblies due to manufacturer changes and updated improvements to the tie rod designs.

Front Audi A8 Tie Rod Ends:

• 4B0 419 811
• 4B0 419 811B
• 4B0 419 811C
• 4B0 419 811E
• 4B0 419 811F
• 4B0 419 811G
• 4D0 419 811A
• 4D0 419 811B
• 4D0 419 811G
• 8E0 419 811
• 8E0 419 811B
• 4F0 419 811C
• 4F0 419 811D

Front Audi A8 Tie Rod Assembly

• 4B0 419 801M
• 4B0 419 801G
• 4B0 419 801B
• 4B0 419 801E
• 4D0 419 801B
• 8E0 419 801B
• 8E0 419 801