Big time! If there is play in the tie rods the wheels/tires can move free of the steering box and they will bounce or flutter in the area of play. I agree 100% with None, fix the front end (and the entire steering), spare no expense. If it doesn't start you're pi$$ed, if it don't steer or stop you're dead. I have been known to drive some junk in my day, but oin day one I will fix the steering and brakes and work on the rest as I have to or want to.