A local dealer where I had my oil changed recently (I had a coupon) told me that I needed new balljoints and end links. He quoted $470 for the joints, $160 for the end links, and $90 for the alignment (labour included on all). This is on a 2000 Expedition XLT 4x4 /w 5.4, 62K miles.

I had a look underneath last week, and sure as heck, the end links are busted off on both sides. From what I gathered from looking on this board, new end links are between $10 & $25. Where's he getting $160 from if they're already pulling the front end apart anyway while doing the balljoints? I could see maybe 1/2 hour labour at best...

Is $470 a good price for doing the balljoints? Should my Expedition already need new ones at 60K? I am not the original owner, but the rest of the truck is in fine shape.

BTW, I am not in a position to do this work myself at this time. I don't mind paying someone to do it, but I don't want to have to "bend over and take it like a man" so to speak.

So what is reasonable? Any thoughts on this are appreciated.

- Vince