I took my 2012 Lexus IS250 to Firestone for alignment. They told me the Lower Ball Joint that connected to the Tie Rod is bad and cannot do tires alignment. To get it done I must replace both of front left, right. They quoted left and right side plus labor cost + tax = 1250. This is something I can do myself but just don't have the tools. I can buy the tools still cost less than what they charged around $1000. Why auto repair shop always raise the parts price 3 times from online price? They either order from Autozone or pickup from Toyota. Is it a reasonable price for $1000? If I take to Lexus probably cost like $1500.

PN: K500123 for $305 and K500371 for $174 (Left and right side)
3.3 hrs labor for $541
Lifetime alignment for $210. (you can pay one time and take to any national Firestone to do free alignment for every 10K miles)

 

Profits!

https://www.alldata.com/us/en/Proper...-Profitability

 

Labors pricey but that's just the way it is, try looking around for a local independent toyota shop and see how much they charge. But personally I'd say save your money to get the tools and do it yourself. Also get OEM ball joints, slightly more expensive yes but LBJs are crucial part of your suspension and not worth the risk in saving 30$ a side.

 

How many miles on this and has it ever been driven in deep water?

I worked in frame and alignment for many years, and rare is the case when a weight bearing BJ hinders wheel alignment unless they are totally wasted. Did they show you boot damage and joint freeplay?

Unlike an inner/outer tie rod end, or an upper BJ or upper A-arm bushings being lose, the lowers (weight bearing ball joint) can have some freeplay and typically drive fine, and have normal tire wear because it has weight on it. i.e. it doesn't hop around with 1000psi pushing it into place.

You might get a second opinion on this one and have them show you the freeplay. 1/16" wouldn't even be noticed by most drivers.

 

Take a look here... any price you want. Beck Arnley is usually top notch. Also, ping @Yodog and see what he has to offer. Tho I would still get a second opinion on your vehicle.

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...ll+joint,10070

 

Yes hello. If your car is rear wheel drive, I actually have front lower ball joints, front inner and outer tie rods, all brand new, still in box, manufactured by TRW automotive.


if these are something you can use and you could use a break with some of the outrageous prices these days, let me know. I’m located in SoCal, but if you’re far away or close, just cover the shipping via ups ground. I’m open to local pickup as well. Yes, this isn’t a joke or anything just FYI. Cheers