Daspyda

iTrader: (1)

I have not had time to have a second opinion done, but I had some service done at the dealer on a car I bought last year.

They told me a tie rod was loose at the rack and the entire rack had to be changed out to the tune of $4,500.

This seems far-fetched to have to replace the rack just because of a loose tie rod - shouldn't you replace the coupler?

Oh, yeah, this is after they told me the 04 had a tranny dipstick...

Thoughts?

Johnhav430

For kicks let's assume they're right (not always, they told me I needed new shocks, new motor mounts, indie was like wth they're all fine, see for yourself [we were under the car on the mounts]?)....I jumped on repair pal and labor is $392 to $500, plus parts. Since the indie will install our parts, well rockauto shows $320 with a $94 core, $28 shipping. So going high, we're at $850. Returning the core, let's say rock's fedex might be $14, so this job may be $770. If my car really needed it, I'd do it, but if not, I'd leave it....but forget about $4,500......is my .02....good luck and keep us posted...

edit maybe add another $150 for tie rod incl parts/labor, not sure if this could be a parts only such as when you want a new belt or thermostat in a timing belt job, part is maybe $30, or could be tie rod is fine...

2KHarrier

I would make time to get a second opinion. Perhaps go to an independent shop and see what they think it may be? Unless you have leaks and a worn out rack, it seems to me you should be able to replace the tie rod ends and be done with it...

The inner tie rods thread onto the steering rack, so I'm not sure where they're going with the suggestion to replace the whole assembly..

2KHarrier

Here's a reman rack on eBay for less than 300 dollars;

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Remanufactur...RZTDmf&vxp=mtr


They really aren't that bad to swap out. Lots of room under the front suspension. But I would find it hard to believe that the rack has a problem. Inner tie rods? Probably.

BradTank

Yea, you're being ripped off.

Tie rods are easily replaceable, I did a little DIY write up here for the outer ones.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-...-rods-diy.html

You can also easily replace the inner ones as well.

Even if it does need a whole new steering rack, you can grab a rebuilt one for like $300 or get one from a salvage yard for even less and it probably takes like maybe 4-5 hours of labor to swap.

I wouldn't even try and debate the charge, just take your car and leave. If they tried to screw you once they will try it again.

k7q

iTrader: (37)

inner or outer tie rods can be replaced without replacing the whole rack. fairly easy to do if you have some mechanical skills.

Legender

Steering rack is fine possibly. Need to understand what part of the rack failed that justifies replacing. Replace tie rods as they are a wear item and designed to be replaced....then find a better dealer to go to, preferably an honest one.
Unless the rack is damaged where the tie rod screws into it, then I don't see the need to replace the entire rack. As long as the tie rod can be attached I don't see an issue with the rack.

lextout

go to les schwab they do free inspections

caverman

I would also throw in $75 - $100 for an alignment after replacing any of those parts.

To me, $4,500 means they don't want to do the work and will only do it if they can bend you without Vaseline.

Daspyda

iTrader: (1)

Had a local and respected indi take a look today - the dealer was correct.

The rack was leaking and the tie-rod connections were loose.

Here's the best part:

Johnhav430

Nice! Don't spend the $4k in savings in one place!

All kidding aside, I bet the indie does a better job, plus a 2 yr. warranty? WINNING!

tallcaguy

Glad to hear you found a much better solution.

tallcaguy

On an 04 (108) is it worth it to replace outer tie rods ends to "tighten" up the steering a little? Any other typical wear, reasonably cheap items to replace? Car has nice low mileage Michelins and recent alignment. Am also going to do engine/trans mounts (OEM parts).

caverman

Yep, and that is why the Lexus dealership lobby is so luxurious.

Johnhav430

I know Cali. has a smog check, but no safety inspection? We have an annual safety inspection and you can't pass with any tie rod play....with that being said, my hunch is it's usually not night/day. For example, I got the right side replaced on my Maxima. 5-6 mos later I put new tires on at AAA (they run their own shops out here and have good rates, $17/wheel). They stated we found you need a left tie rod, you'll have to do it before your next inspection. Normally we suggest an alignment when you get new tires, but not today because of your left tie rod. Car drove perfectly fine, no steering issues no problems....my uncle DIY'd one in the past, also no perceived benefit (inspection purposes). my .02...

p.s. now that my wife and I have lifetime alignments, it's not as much a PITA. I was thinking I just did the right with an alignment, now I need the left and another alignment?