[pcube]

While my car was up on jacks I noticed that the front right wheel had some lateral free play, which suggests that the tie rods need replacement.

Looked up realoem, and realised that there is no part number for the inner tie rod, only the outer one or the whole assembly (inner and outer with new nuts). Searched several online suppliers, and confirmed that it is not possible to purchase the inner tie rod separately.

So that got me thinking, perhaps it isn't necessary to replace the inner ones? What have you guys been doing? Replacing the whole assembly, or only the outer tie rod end?

Additional note: whole assembly is sold as original bmw (no oem alternatives) so rather expensive. Oem outer tie rod ends are available from Lemforder, which are much more affordable.