Analysis of Tie Rod Separations in Motor Vehicle Crashes

As part of determining the circumstances of a crash, components or component assemblies may be evaluated to identify if they were damaged as a result of the crash or if they lost function prior to the crash. Evaluation of a component or component assembly loss of function on vehicle performance is useful in establishing vehicle dynamics and other detailed characteristics of a crash. The causes and conditions for a tie rod fracture or separation from the steering knuckle of a vehicle are evaluated through both component level analysis and full vehicle testing. Full vehicle testing was conducted to evaluate the effects of a tie rod separation on vehicle control and to document any associated vehicle or roadway evidence that may be available. Case study components and scene evidence from vehicles involved in a crash where a tie rod separation was observed were also analyzed and documented. The testing and vehicle case study information is compared, summarized and presented as a valuable tool for motor vehicle crash research and accident reconstruction.