Ford Repair: tire rod repair on a 1999 ford contour, tie rod ends, outer tie rods

Question
i need new a new tire rod, was wondering what approx. cost might be AND if this is a time-consuming "big" job.  I need my car back asap!  Also...are you famaliar with recall restrictions?  for instance if ford has recalled my car for anything....is there a time limit/cutoff as to when i can get it done? TY!

Answer
Your vehicle has 2 inner and 2 outer tie rods.  The outers (a.k.a. tie rod ends) are very easy to change, most do-it-yourself mechanics can change them.  I would guess the cost to replace an outer would be around $80 for labor and $40 for parts.  The inners are much harder, and usually require special tools.  I would guess the cost to replace an outer would be around $200 for labor and $100 for parts.  The vehicle should have a 4-wheel alignment after either repair, this usually costs around $80.

Ford Motor Company has several different types of "programs", "recalls" usually pertain to vehicle safety.  They don't expire, and are for the life of the vehicle.

I hope this helps,
Dave