Hey everyone, I’ve got an 08 Tundra with 208,000 miles and all the original suspension parts. My local mechanic says I need new front lower ball joints, sway bar end links, and outer tie rods.
Called Toyota, and the price for the end links alone shocked me - $208 EACH! Trying to stick with OEM, but the cost is over $1500 just for parts. I can do the work myself, but does anyone know any trustworthy brands that don’t cost as much? Thanks for any help!
Yeah, these parts do wear down eventually, but once you replace them, you shouldn’t have to worry about it again unless you’re doing some serious hauling.
Davis said:
Yeah, these parts do wear down eventually, but once you replace them, you shouldn’t have to worry about it again unless you’re doing some serious hauling.
Good point! I’m considering using 555 lower control arms to cut $500 off. Going OEM for the rest. Heard the Napa 555 parts hold up pretty well.
@Oswin
They usually do; I’m all about original Toyota parts, but I get saving where you can.
@Oswin
Yeah, 555 parts are decent, but for a Tundra, I’d stick with OEM.
Honestly, if you want the truck to feel like it did originally, OEM is the way to go. After that many miles, it’s pretty normal for everything to be worn out. Be careful with aftermarket brands; even some that used to be reliable aren’t what they used to be.
I actually have some OEM inner and outer tie rods I bought for my 2012 Tundra but never used. Still brand new. If you find the best OEM price, I can match or beat it and send them your way.
Atlas said:
I actually have some OEM inner and outer tie rods I bought for my 2012 Tundra but never used. Still brand new. If you find the best OEM price, I can match or beat it and send them your way.
Thanks! Do you know if they’d fit on an 08? Let me check around for prices and see if they’re compatible.
@Oswin
Yep, same part numbers for 2007-2021 Tundras. Double-check if you want, and shoot me a DM if you’re interested.
Have you tried looking for OEM parts online? Dealers tend to be a lot pricier. Quick search shows OEM sway bar end links at $121. Don’t get them from the dealer if you don’t have to!
Edit: Just realized those might be rear sway bar links, though. Are you needing the front?
@Zoran
Yeah, I need the front ones. Updated my post to clarify!
Oswin said:
@Zoran
Yeah, I need the front ones. Updated my post to clarify!
Got it. Do you have the part number for the fronts?
If the originals lasted 200,000 miles, I wouldn’t use anything else. It’s a small price for quality and safety. Aftermarket parts for Toyota suspensions are risky; you don’t want to be stuck on the freeway if something fails.
Maybe it’s time for a new Tundra … the 2025 models are nice!
Marlon said:
Maybe it’s time for a new Tundra … the 2025 models are nice!
How’s that a smart move for the guy? Setting aside any love or hate for Gen 3 Tundras?