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Alignment and Inner Tie Rod Play – ASE Practice Question (VIDEO)

by Shop Press Staff | Apr 21, 2026

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Description

A vehicle equipped with a MacPherson strut suspension is in the shop for new tires and an alignment. The technician notes play in the left-side inner tie rod end.

What should the technician tell the customer?
A) The play will not affect the vehicle’s alignment.
B) He can perform the alignment, and the tie rod can be replaced at a later time.
C) The inner tie rod needs to be replaced before performing the alignment.