I have an '02 S60 with ~57k miles. I've been told by the dealer that it needs new inner tie rods replaced ($372) and a new right front sway bar link ($90). The mileage seems a bit low for these issues(?) What do you think? I hear a light knock from the right front when I go over bumps but other than that no noticable issues. I took it to a different mechanic who I used to take my wife's car to and he checked the tie rods (by shaking the wheel when up on the life) and said he didn't think they were bad. Is this the appropriate way to check them? How much of a risk am I taking if I believe the mechanic over the dealer? Will they need to be replaced within the next 20k-30k miles anyway? Any input would be appreciated. Thank you.

 

If you jack up the car and rock the tire from front to back and there is no play at all most likely they are good.

The clunking you hear is most likely bad upper spring seat. and bad sway bar link. They will both make about the same noise when bad.