Ford: tie rod ends, tie rod, seguin

Question
my expert is recommending changing my tie rod ends, both inner and outer.

i have not noticed any steering problems, in fact the car is driving well. my expert claims he spotted the problems while performing an oil change. he wants $800 to do it. he said this should be done within 2 wks, 2 wks ago.

please advise.  

Answer
Mr. Seguin,

If you want to know if you have tie rod problems, jack your car up off the ground, making sure that both front wheels are off the ground and try to wiggle your wheels. If there is hardly any play, there is no problem. And even if there was, $800 dollars is WAY out of line. Replacing 2 tie rod end with labor should run you about $200-$250 at a max, depending on where you live. I also recommend that you search for an new mechanic and do not return to this gentleman in the furture. Hope that this helps and good luck.


Ken