Automotive Forums

Hey, I was told when I took my car (97 Toyota Corolla) in to have the wheels aligned that I needed a new inner tie rod end, to the tune of $250 + the wheel alignment of $42.  So, my back-yard mechanic said he ccould do it, but now, after getting the part from AutoZone, he looked under the car, and said he can't get to it.  

So, I called another mechanic, and he said he would only use his own part (MOOG) because of warranty.  I called AutoZone to make sure my warranty on my part was a Lifetime Warranty, and it was.  The difference in price for the MOOG and the DuraLast is double, from $65.99 for DuraLast to $132 for MOOG.  

So I asked AutoZone if they knew of anyone who could installthe part for me, and he gave me a name.  Is the wheel alignment place and the 2nd mechanic shop just trying to build the ticket to a higher $$ figure by saying they have to use their own parts?  That's the feeling I am getting. Or are the parts that different in quality?  I would rather be safe than sorry, but don't have money to waste. msirish0077