Steering, as far as definitions go, is an integral part of driving and is collection of parts and components that allow land transport to follow a course designated by a driver, in this case, automobiles. While simplistic and very basic, proper steering can never be ignored as is a fundamental element that is kept in mind by any car manufacturer. German-based VW cars, are not an exception.

The steering system varies from platform to platform, while some parts remain constant, the configurations that allow for better control of the car's mobility change over time and over applications. For example, with the modern automobile getting heavier, power steering, a system developed to allow for easier steering has been developed by car makers, thus alleviating the weight problem of cars. The advancement in computers is slowly being integrated into the automotive industry, doing away with the mechanical nature of steering systems and focusing instead on electronics or steer-by-wire technology, similar to the fly-by-wire systems of modern fighter aircrafts like the F-16 Falcon or F-22 Lightning II. Suspension systems go hand in hand with steering, as stability is an important factor to consider when steering at varying speeds.

There is more to steering than a wheel and axel. As stated earlier, it is a collective effort, with each and every part dependent on the other. There are two main kinds of steering gears. While there are others, these two are the most common. The first is the rack-and-pinion gearset. Basically, the mechanism is pinion gear set against a rack As one turns the wheel, the pinion spins and moves to the direction set by the wheel, thus making the rotation into linear mention that pushes the wheel either left or right. With smaller vehicles, and some SUV's, this allows for faster response in steering. On the other hand, recirculating-ball steering gear, uses a worm gear and ball bearings to turn the wheels to either direction. This are commonly used in bigger vehicles such as trucks and full-sized SUV's.

Whatever gear configuration the VW uses, one part that requires significant attention is the tie rod, due to the fact that both types need tie rods to work. Tie rods are just that---rods. VW tie rods, like their other car make counterparts, has one main purpose, to carry the force from the steering link or the rack gear to the steering knuckle, which in turn cause the wheels to turn. Usually, a VW tie rod is adjustable, in that the length changes thanks to an adjusting sleeve connected on the outer end of the tie rod. The purpose of this adjustment is to keep the vehicles toe or the symmetry angle of the wheels.

A VW tie rod is usually durable enough to warrant at least an annual routine check up, along with the rest of the steering and suspension of the car. Malfunctioning tie rods could cause erratic steering, wandering and wear out tires prematurely. It must be noted that replacing the tie rod requires for the wheels to be re-aligned to match the required toe setting.