sway bar end links/ball joints

[hybird]

This my 1st post so bear with me. I have a 2002 t-bird. It has 25,000 miles. I took it to the dealer (Cutter Ford Honolulu). They told me that the front and rear suspension needed repair. $2000 for new ball joints, new sway bar end links, tie rod ends. They said this was a common repair on Tbirds. Any suggestions?

[bjjando]

I'm really suprised that you need all that work with only 25,000 miles. I have 2002 T-bird, had it since 12/2001. I have 240,000 miles on it and just now need lower ball joints dealer gave me a cost of $1150 to repair which I haven't repaired yet. Replaced outer tie rods last year and rack and pinon 3 years ago. Anyway the cost is about right, but I would get someone else to check it out. Can't believe all that could be wrong with so few miles. I found some parts on Auto Warehouse - D/S lower ball joint (knuckle) for $158 when the dealer wants $390 each. Still looking for P/S lower ball joint. Hope this helps.

[hybird]

Thanks for your reply. I took the bird to a local mech. and he told me to get the sway bar end links from Ford. I did that and it cost $250. I decided to have another Ford dealer install them. $275. After they installed them they also told me I had significant suspension wear. Parts alone were $3000+ installation was $1000+ including a 4 wheel alignment. I can't believe I have to spend close to$5k for a car with only 24k miles. The 2nd dealer didn't even include ball joints. I can't help it but I almost think these guys are in collusion and I'm getting ripped off. Any suggestions?