Rear Upper Control Arms, replace or fix?

[ronlatta]

Hello all, this forum has been a great source of info. I have actually completed a few "basic" repairs/maintenance items using the info here - thanks to everyone who has posted. I have a 97 Boxster, original owner, immaculate but its 15 years old and the heat and humidity of Texas doesn't help things out. Have already replaced struts/coils and several other rubber items. I am having the spark plugs replaced and leaning towards also doing the ignition coils - no added labor but the coils cost $500+. I alsohave the front and rear track rods and bushings need replacement - about $2,600 from the dealer, almost $2,000 in parts. I usually avoid the dealer but I figured I needed some major wotrk done and also wanted them to thoroughly check out the car. I have known the service manager since I first bt the car and trust him. It seems like I could save big $ buying aftermarket parts, although not sure the dealership will install for me. I plan to keep the car for the foreseeable future. I plan to discuss with the service mgr but thought I would seek some input since many of you are very knowledgeable and experienced with Boxster and repairs. Thanks.

[Bala]

Originally Posted by ronlatta

I also have the front and rear track rods and bushings need replacement - about $2,600 from the dealer, almost $2,000 in parts.

They shouldn't cost you 2000. Should be about a grand. The labor from the dealer would be much more than 600. You have to factor in the alignment and a full wheel balance as well for good measure - 200ish.

[ronlatta]

Thanks, I am in Houston. I checked again and the parts are about $1900. Did some quick searching and looks like aftermarket parts are about 1/2. Any suggestions on where to buy assuming I go that route?

[Bala]

Originally Posted by ronlatta

Thanks, I am in Houston. I checked again and the parts are about $1900. Did some quick searching and looks like aftermarket parts are about 1/2. Any suggestions on where to buy assuming I go that route?

I got mine from Vertex. They put a set together for with four lower control arms, 4 upper control arms, 4 track rods for 995. These are rebuilt ones and i had to return the cores. They are original parts as they had the part numbers on them. The track rods had the polyurethane bushings. I am happy with them. Beat them up on the shipping. Shouldnt cost more then 30 for it.

Whether you are DIY or using an indy check the wheel bearings and axle boots. Good time to do it now. Got rear bearings from ********************************z for 25 each. Front was from PP at 40.