**Direct replacement tie rod assembly** Your BMW's tie rod assemblies consists of two parts; the inner tie rod that connects to the steering rack and the outer tie rod which attaches to the steering knuckle. We see high mileage tie rod assemblies develop play on the inner ball joint as well as the tie rod end ball joint. Play in these assemblies results in vague steering feel and play in the steering as well. We typically recommend replacing the tie rod assemblies as a whole instead of replacing the individual components.