I went to a shop today for an alignment. One of the tires is getting chewed up. They said I needed new tie rod ends (inner and outer) and they would be happy to replace for $500. Sooooo, I said thanks but no thanks and left. Got home, jacked up the car, and started wiggling things. The wheel with the bad tire had play in it, but it seemed to be the bearing, so I tightened it to the next notch the cotter pin could fit in. Wheel still turns freely, but no wiggle. I am assuming this means bearings are in need of replacement, yes? The clue was that most of the play was when shaking up and down. There is a tiny bit of play side to side, but none more than I have ever notices the 200k miles I have had the car.

Are there replaceable inner tie rod ends, I took the boot off and it was a ball and socket, with no appearant means of removal. But the guy did get a price for an inner tie rod end, what was this.

Thanks,

Ralph