I have a couple of questions to see if I can do it by myself. Also to see if I should tackle all these tasks first before new tires and an alignment. It's one those where since you have these aparts, you should...etc.

1) I was told the "inner tie rod has play", is this part hidden inside the rubber boot of the steering assembly? Can I do this at home? {I know I MUST get an alignment afterward}.

2) If I replace the lower arm control, do I need alignment for this too? Is this also a MUST?

FYI, I replace the strut mount bushing already and have not had alignment done. I understand the best thing is to replace everything then do alignment. But if I can live with one task at a time before alignment, which should I do first?

 

Do the inner tie rods first.
Then the alignment. The rest doesn't require an alingment.
Will you be able to have the entire front end off the ground?

 

Yes, with 2 jack stands. Is this what you meant? Or you meant the whole car is leveled and off ground?

 

The entire front. You will have to turn the wheels all the way to get the inner tie rod off.

 

And this inner rod is within the rubber boot right? I didn't see it when I was under the car previously.

Also, any additional parts or things to watch out for? I'm a do-it-yourself kind of person, but I like to be prepare before my wife doesn't have car to drive with.

 

Yes it is under the boot.
When installing the boot back after replacing the rod I use a wire tie (Zip tie) to go on the boot by the inside of the rack.

You do own a Pipe wrench right?

 

Yes, I do have a big red pipe wrench, if that's what you meant.

Also, should I change both sides when I change these parts? Even though the parts might not be bad, but if I'm going to keep the car, maybe I should replace all these front suspension parts as well right? I'm buying a volvo vadis, so when I get it, most of these questions should be answered.

 

My brother took this Volvo strut mount yesterday as the mechanic told him so. He was eager to fix the problem himself with just few suggestions. But, I still want to help. He doesn’t allow me. But, I guess there is a technique how to know what the problem is without him telling me directly. I just couldn’t figure it out yet. I know this forum helps a lot. I’ll try to post it here in case I’d be able to have few details of the case.

 

If you can afford it yes I would do it all at the same time.

 

I got some tips here. https://volvoforums.com/m_50769/tm.htm