Tie rods and links broken?

[NathanOfSeattle]

Took my 4runner in for an alignment and got a quote for some damage that I am a bit surprised at. From the shop:

"Both outer tie rod ends have movement, rack bushings look torn, and left front links broken"

I'm surprised because my 4runner is mainly a backup gas car at this point. I drive it less than 2000 miles a year. The most offroad it sees is driving on blown leaves on the near perfect streets in my highly taxed area. I would expect this if I hit something, which I did not. TIA!

 

[spartacus]

Some one's been driving.

 

[spartacus]

Some one's been off roading. 3rd gen version of , "Christine".

 

[Hungryhawk]

Seems like time to personally get under with camera or have a helper photo these items identified and post photos on this site.
Also, details like miles on truck, prior services etc.

 

[olerunner]

How long has it been since they were replaced? Even at 2000 miles a year if its been many years since they were replaced theyll go bad. Time kills all

 

[whyzee125]

Not super surprising! OEM tie rods last a long time but with most of these rigs over 200k now, they're either worn out or have been replaced with aftermarket which do not tend to last as long. The rack bushings will even wear out just with time, especially if they have any oil dripping on them. The end links are a little more surprising but if you have any rust, it's fairly typical