Steering Tie Rod Market Size - By Product, By Vehicle, By Material, By Sales Channel, Share, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Steering Tie Rod Market Size

The global steering tie rod market was valued at USD 18.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.6% between 2025 and 2034. Increase in automotive manufacturing is a prime growth driver for the steering tie rod industry especially in emerging economies where increased industrialization and urbanization are boosting vehicle demand. China, India, and Brazil are seeing increased automobile manufacturing owing to the expansion of middle-class populations with rising disposable incomes and developing infrastructure. This increase in production directly leads to higher demand for key automotive parts such as steering tie rods which are used in vehicle control and safety. With the increase in production, the demand for high-performance also grew, with long-lasting steering systems globally.
 

Technological innovations in steering systems are revolutionarily changing the automotive sector, hence the increased demand for advanced steering tie rods. Some of these innovations include electric power steering (EPS), steer-by-wire systems, and sensor integration. These advancements enhance the handling of vehicles, fuel economy, and overall safety. They minimize mechanical complexity while improving responsiveness and driver control. As cars become more automated and dependent on electronic systems, the importance of precision-engineered parts like steering tie rods increases.
 

For instance, in 2024, Toyota installed steer-by-wire technology which is named as One Motion Grip on the Toyota bZ4X and Lexus RZ electric vehicles. This technology drops the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and wheels and instead uses electronic control. One major upgrade is the implementation of a 200-degree steering ratio which steps up from the current 150 degrees, for a more natural and smooth steering experience. It also provides for subtle control and maneuverability, thus improving vehicle responsiveness and safety.
 

The increasing use of electric and autonomous vehicles is having a major influence on the steering systems market, fueling the demand for advanced and specialized components such as steering tie rods. These vehicles depend on extremely responsive, accurate steering systems to provide maximum safety and performance, particularly in autonomous driving scenarios.
 

Steering Tie Rod Market Trends

• For better fuel efficiency and to make compliance with strict emissions, manufacturers are making more use of light metals such as aluminum alloys, carbon fiber composites, and high-strength steel for steering tie rods. These metals lighten the vehicle without sacrificing structural strength and are also sustainable in nature with good performance.
   
• For instance, in 2024 the use of lightweight materials in steering tie rods is the SVC Off road’s aluminum steering tie rods for the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor. They are made from hard-anodized aluminum rods and 4130 nickel-plated machined clevises. Aluminum usage not only makes the overall weight of the component lighter but also preserves structural integrity and durability, which is essential for off-road capability. This style of design appeals to the needs of the market to improve fuel efficiency and strict emissions standards while minimizing vehicle weight without sacrificing strength.
   
• Advances in automotive automation and safety features have encouraged the evolution of tie rods with sensors and intelligent technologies. These new-generation parts provide real-time feedback on steering system performance, facilitating instant diagnostics and early detection of wear or failure. This function improves vehicle handling and stability along with supporting predictive maintenance and minimizing the likelihood of surprise failures and increasing component lifespan. Integrating these smart steering elements becomes crucial in vehicles as they enhance the safety of drivers and reduce long-term upkeep expenses for both consumers and fleets.
   
• In Asia-Pacific, countries especially China and India, are witnessing rapid growth in car production and ownership, fueled by urbanization, a rising middle class, and rising disposable incomes. This spurt in automobile demand is being directly driven by the demand for critical components like steering tie rods. To meet this demand, manufacturers are setting up local production units and distribution networks to service these growing markets efficiently. Through local production, firms can minimize costs, optimize supply chains, and better respond to local demand. This local growth pattern is key to the overall growth of the world steering tie rod industry.
   

Trump Administration Tariffs

• The Trump Administration's tariffs on steel and aluminum imports as well as on auto parts significantly impacted the steering tie rod market. As various steering components depend heavily on the use of high-quality metal imports tariffs imposed on Chinese and other imported materials resulted in elevated raw material prices. Prices had to be either increased or margins need to be lowered by manufacturers, putting pressure on supplier relationships and causing market volatility.
   
• The tariff imposition broke global supply chains, mainly for Tier 1 and Tier 2 steering systems suppliers. Most U.S.-based companies relied on foreign production witnessed delays in deliveries and cost hikes. To counter these impacts companies started scouting for local sources or putting money into domestic manufacturing, although this transition needed high capital investment and time, hindering operations and innovation in the entire steering tie rod industry.
   
• Tariffs also shaped demand patterns within the aftermarket industry of the steering tie rod sector. With increased costs of OEM components, the end-users and shops sought alternative or cheaper alternatives such as remanufactured or domestic products. Although this was an opportunity in the short-term for local producers, it subjected the market to quality fluctuations and heightened competition between manufacturers who struggled to meet costs while maintaining standards.
   

Steering Tie Rod Market Analysis

Based on product, the steering tie rod industry is divided into inner tie rods and outer tie rods. In 2024, the outer tie rods segment dominated the market accounting for around 54% share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% during the forecast period.
 

• Outer tie rods are having Higher Replacement Rate as these are exposed to more wear and environmental elements than inner tie rods because of the location of the steering system's outer extremity. Enduring continuous contact with road grime, moisture, soil, and other aggressive elements wears and tears them down. Their exposure makes outer tie rods highly susceptible to damage, tending to cause steering instability and irregular tire wear if not replaced early. As a result, they need to be replaced more often than the inner parts. This high wear rate strongly increases demand in the automotive aftermarket, and as such, the outer tie rod market is a leading contributor to the overall market.
   
• Outer tie rods are located at the extremity of the steering linkage and are more convenient than inner tie rods. Their location provides accessibility, the inspection, removal, and replacement making routine maintenance and repair less of a challenge. Due to this ease of access, outer tie rods tend to be the ones given attention in regular servicing of the vehicle, particularly in responding to problems in steering response or wheel alignment. This convenience lowers labor cost and time, making them widely used by mechanics and car owners alike. Therefore, outer tie rods have greater service frequency, which helps them be highly present in the aftermarket market.
   
• In June 2024, DRiV EMEA showed a significant expansion to its Monroe Steering and Suspension offering adding 750 new part numbers with 20% growth in coverage. This move helps to increase the safety, longevity and driving performance of many models provided by DRiV EMEA across an extensive range. It highlights the company's focus on ensuring high-quality products and enhanced customer satisfaction in the constantly changing world of the automotive aftermarket business.

Based on vehicles, the steering tie rod market is segmented into passenger cars and commercial vehicles. In 2024, the passenger car segment dominates the market with over 60% of market share and the segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 6% from 2025 to 2034.
 

• Passenger vehicles do have a longer lifespan and need more regular maintenance as they age, steering tie rods are vital for vehicle safety, and they normally need regular checks and replacement to operate at their best. As passenger vehicles gain mileage, parts such as steering tie rods experience wear and tear, particularly when used on rough road conditions. With many passenger cars on the road worldwide, the demand for replacement steering rods is high. With the constant need for maintenance and replacement parts, this is what helps the passenger car segment command the largest market share in the market.
   
• Passenger vehicles form a significant share of the world’s vehicle production, due to increasing urbanization and growing middle-class populations, especially in developing economies. Being manufactured in high numbers, passenger vehicles need high demands for steering tie rods, both outer and inner parts, thus forming their commanding market presence.
   
• With the changing consumer preference towards improved driving comfort and safety features, passenger vehicles are increasingly fitted with advanced steering systems. The increasing use of technologies such as electric power steering (EPS) and ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) in passenger cars fuels the demand for high-performance, long-lasting steering tie rods that provide smooth and accurate handling, thus increasing the market share of this segment.
   
• In April 2025, Nissan Sakura, Japan's top-selling electric vehicle (EV), a small city car was launched with electric power steering (EPS) and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), such as lane-keeping assist, intelligent emergency braking, and collision warning. The addition of EPS and ADAS technologies improves vehicle handling, safety, and fuel efficiency, leading to the demand for high-performance, long-lasting steering tie rods that provide accurate control and responsiveness. With more passenger cars embracing such sophisticated systems, the demand for specialized steering parts such as tie rods rises, adding to the increasing market share of this category.
   

Based on material, the steering tie rod market is segmented into carbon steel and stainless steel. In 2024, the carbon steel segment dominates the market with over 70% of market share.
 

• Carbon steel is very strong and long-lasting material, and it is an appropriate material to use for steering tie rods which experience constant stress, vibration, and road impacts. Its strength makes the tie rods structurally sound over the long term and delivers the requisite support for handling and safety for the vehicle.
   
• Carbon steel is also cost-effective relative to any other materials such as aluminum alloys or titanium, which is why it is a suitable choice for manufacturers who want to maintain low production costs without sacrificing quality. Carbon steel allows manufacturers to achieve high-quality steering tie rods at a cost which is competitive enough for the automotive industry, where the control of costs is highly valued by OEMs and aftermarket suppliers.
   
• Carbon steel is simple to produce, machine, and process, which also makes it highly versatile for being used to manufacture steering tie rods of different designs and sizes. Also, carbon steel can readily be heat-treated to increase its hardness and is resistant to fatigue enhancing its functionality further. Through this versatility, it can provide the functionality desired by each type of vehicle, ranging from passenger vehicles to heavy trucks, to its very common application throughout the market.
   
• In 2024, Gabriel India launched a new range of steering tie rod ends from carbon steel for use on several models of vehicles. The components link the steering rack gearbox to the steering knuckles and provide smooth handling along with strength. The model AM-TR358023S fits Hyundai's i10 Grand, whereas the AM-TR358010S fits Mahindra's Xylo. These carbon steel tie rod ends are designed to Original Equipment (OE) specifications and are providing greater strength and durability.
   

Based on sales channel, the steering tie rod market is segmented into OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket. In 2024, the OEM segment dominates the market with over 80% of market share.
 

• OEMs provide steering tie rods straight to carmakers for use on new cars when they are built. With increasing global production of automobiles, particularly passenger cars, the market for OEM steering parts has grown dramatically. Since each new car needs steering tie rods, OEMs dominate the supply market by default.
   
• OEM parts are designed to precise quality and longevity requirements with the same original vehicle's specifications. Automotive manufacturers prefer OEM parts to keep the integrity and performance of their vehicles intact, particularly for key safety items such as steering tie rods. They are Seamless fit with long life and warranty which improves OEM preference above aftermarkets.
   
• OEMs typically have multi-year supply agreements with automakers and enjoy established distribution and logistics infrastructure. The agreements provide stable demand and ongoing production, which positions OEMs over aftermarket suppliers as a competitive advantage. OEMs also play a more integrated function in the automobile supply chain and frequently collaborate closely with vehicle engineers at the design stage.
   
• In July 2023, Maruti Suzuki announced a recall of 87,599 units of its S-Presso and Eeco models due to defect in their steering tie rod. The company stated that in rare cases the faulty tie rod could fail which could affect vehicle steerability and handling. To address this issue the company initiated a free replacement of the defective part for all affected vehicles.

In 2024, the China region in Asia Pacific dominated the steering tie rod market with around 40% market share and generated around USD 16.4 billion in revenue.
 

• China is the world's biggest car producer and consumer, leading a large percentage of global vehicle output. With millions of vehicles particularly passenger cars are produced every year in China and has a huge demand for necessary parts such as steering tie rods. This huge production level directly relates to China's market leadership in steering tie rods in both OEM and aftermarket.
   
• China enjoys a well-developed automotive parts supply base and low-cost manufacturing facilities, making it possible to mass-produce high-quality steering tie rods at reasonable prices. It has many local producers and raw material suppliers, making production efficient and fast distribution possible, making China a favored source for both the local and overseas markets.
   
• For instance, in 2024 Chinese car company BYD (Build Your Dreams) experienced great success in 2024 when it sold about 4.3 million electric and hybrid cars, beating Tesla in worldwide sales. This achievement stated the status of BYD as the world's best-selling electric vehicle (EV) producer.
   

The steering tie rod market in U.S. is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• North America, especially the United States, has among the largest vehicle fleets in the world with millions of vehicles in operation. Many of these are older models, and as a result, they have more need for replacement parts such as steering tie rods. The need for regular maintenance and part replacement boosts the after-market for steering parts.
   
• The North American market is characterized by light trucks and SUVs which have stronger and more robust steering systems because of their weight and size. They are used for towing, off-road driving, and long-distance hauling, which subjects steering components to more stress and results in higher replacement rates of parts such as tie rods.
   
• In 2024, Ford's leadership in the North American truck segment, specifically with the F-Series pickup trucks continued as America's top-selling vehicle line, with high demand fueled by consumers employing these trucks for towing, off-road use, and heavy-duty tasks. These high-usage profiles put heavy stress on parts such as steering tie rods and elevating their wear rate and compounding replacement demands. Consequently, the aftermarket market for robust, high-performance tie rods for trucks and SUVs such as the F-Series keeps on increasing throughout North America.
   

The steering tie rod market in Germany is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The European Union mandates strict standards of safety and emissions, pushing car manufacturers toward utilizing high-strength and long-lasting components like high-quality tie rods. Stringent standards act as an encouraging force to design and develop products with high-performance specifications and accurate dimensions, with manufacturers compelled to incorporate such devices.
   
• Europe leads the world in the adoption of electric and hybrid cars, many which have state-of-the-art steering technologies such as Electric Power Steering (EPS) and Steer-by-Wire. The former and the latter need specialized tie rods for proper functionality and driving feel, thus making the market share of steering parts in Europe greater.
   
• For instance, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, a prominent German automotive components supplier. In 2024, ZF announced the launch of a new family of steering tie rods specifically for electric and hybrid vehicles. These parts are developed with innovative materials to safeguard the specific needs of contemporary steering systems, including Electric Power Steering (EPS).
   

Steering Tie Rod Market Share

• Steering tie rod industry in 2024 is expected to be dominated by ZF Friedrichshafen AG, Nexteer Automotive Group Limited, NSK Ltd., CTR Corporation, Mando Corporation, to name a few.
   
• ZF Friedrichshafen AG is a German global leader in driveline and chassis technology. ZF provides innovative steering systems including tie rods to leading automotive OEMs. Innovation-driven ZF focuses on electrification, automation, and digitalization to improve vehicle safety and performance in markets worldwide.
   
• Based in the U.S., Nexteer Automotive is a leading global supplier of motion control systems such as electric and hydraulic steering. It provides precision steering tie rods and systems to global OEMs. Supported by robust R&D, the company is a global leader in steer-by-wire technologies and provides cutting-edge solutions for electric and autonomous vehicles.
   
• NSK Ltd., a Japanese multinational company manufactures high-performance steering parts such as tie rods. Operating in more than 30 countries NSK is dedicated to light, strong parts that enhance car safety and fuel efficiency. NSK is also focus to sustainability and ongoing innovation in automotive steering technology.
   
• CTR Corporation (Central Corporation) of South Korea is a leading manufacturer of suspension and steering components, such as tie rods. Providing solutions to OEM and aftermarket markets CTR focuses on quality, cost-effectiveness, and global coverage. It supplies a broad range of vehicle models with its cutting-edge engineering and lean manufacturing.
   
• Mando Corporation of the South Korea-based Halla Group produces state-of-the-art automotive components such as electric steering systems and tie rods. Enjoying robust OEM relationships and a global network of facilities Mando combines advanced technology to respond to increasing requirements of autonomous and electric mobility solutions globally.
   
• Global companies utilize their mass production capacity and broad range of steering parts to address the diversified requirements of customers in various geographic markets. Global companies control the market through a complete product offering, including OEM and aftermarket tie rods for a variety of vehicles. Global companies also spend significantly on research and development efforts to improve the performance and life of their steering systems.
   
• In addition, most of these global players extend their technological prowess and market reach through strategic mergers and alliances, enabling them to innovate and remain competitive. By putting cutting-edge materials including carbon steel, aluminum alloys, and others they can enhance the strength, weight, and performance of steering tie rods. Furthermore, these organizations are allowing state-of-the-art technologies such as Electric Power Steering (EPS) and Steer-by-Wire systems and delivering more accurate and effective steering solutions.
   
• Local players emphasized customizing their strategies to suit local market needs. These firms usually deliver customized steering tie rods with an emphasis on local vehicle makers’ requirements and their distinct driving conditions. By being aware of the local market, they supply superior quality products that meet country-specific standards and cultural tastes, which are a differentiator in their respective markets.
   

Steering Tie Rod Market Companies

Major players operating in the steering tie rod industry are:

• ACDelco
• BorgWarner
• CTR
• Delphi Technologies
• Ingalls Engineering
• Mando Corporation
• Nexteer Automotive Group
• NSK
• Sankei Industry
• Bosch Group
   

Steering Tie Rod Industry News

• In June 2024, DRiV Incorporated, a US-based automobile parts supplier, made a major expansion of Monroe Steering and Suspension offerings. It added 750 new part numbers to its range, expanding by 20%. The action was intended to raise product coverage with safety and durability, which met the rising demand for premium steering and suspension parts. The expansion included new components for widely popular late-model vehicles and utilized high-tech materials, anti-corrosion treatments, and demanding tests to meet original equipment requirements.
   
• In December 2022, BorgWarner Inc., a U.S.-based automotive and e-mobility supplier acquired Drivetek AG, a company based in Switzerland of tie rod assembly specialist. The deal helps to enhance BorgWarner's power electronics and auxiliary inverter technologies and broadened its customer base and industry scope. The acquisition showed BorgWarner's dedication to improving its product portfolio in the steering tie rod sector.
   
• In November 2023, Toyota announced its plans to introduce its steer-by-wire technology, named One Motion Grip, into production by the end of 2024. The first models with the technology will be the bZ4X EV SUV and Lexus sibling, the RZ. The steer-by-wire system gets rid of the mechanical link between the steering wheel and wheels, providing a more natural and smooth steering feel. This development is a breakthrough in steering technology, which can shape steering rod design in the future.
   

The steering tie rod market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue ($Bn) and shipment (units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Product

• Inner tie rods
• Outer tie rods

Market, By Vehicle

• Passenger cars
  • Hatchback
  • Sedan
  • SUV
• Commercial vehicles
  • Light commercial vehicles (LCV)
  • Medium commercial vehicles (MCV)
  • Heavy commercial vehicles (HCV)

Market, By Material

• Carbon steel
• Stainless steel

Market, By Sales Channel

• OEM
• Aftermarket

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Nordics
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa