Lexus dealer: tie rod loose - replace steering rack???
#1
Lexus dealer: tie rod loose - replace steering rack???
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?
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?
#2
Lexus Fanatic
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...
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...
Last edited by Johnhav430; 07-05-17 at 10:10 AM.
#3
Moderator
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..
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..
#4
Moderator
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.
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.
#5
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.
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.
#7
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.
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.
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StanVanDam (11-05-23)
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#9
Instructor
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.
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.
#13
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).
#14
Instructor
Yep, and that is why the Lexus dealership lobby is so luxurious.
#15
Lexus Fanatic
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?