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Front Stabilizer Bar Link

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by jkash, Sep 15, 2016.

  1. jkash

    jkash Member

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    I took my care in for service this week and had a very unwelcome surprise. I was told that the front stabilizer bar link was leaking grease and the boots were torn. The job cost over $500. I am having a hard time accepting that this job cost this much money. I spoke to a friend who is a mechanic and it was his opinion that I overpaid. I want to trust this dealership. It is the only establishment I have ever taken my car. I have tried to call the service writer the last two days for an explanation of why it cost so much but he has not been there. I am going to try again tomorrow.

    If anyone has had this job done, please share what it cost you.

    Thank you.
     
    #1 jkash, Sep 15, 2016
  2. dolj

    dolj Senior Member

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    It is funny, but my experience, second opinion mechanics always seem to say this, friend or otherwise. I don't know why this is.

    From your description, I'm not exactly sure what work you have had done. Did you have a strut (or a shock absorber) replaced?
     
    #2 dolj, Sep 15, 2016
  3. hchu1

    hchu1 Active Member

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    It sounds like a cv boot, likely outers.
     
    #3 hchu1, Sep 15, 2016
  4. jkash

    jkash Member

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    I just know what is on the receipt: Front Stabilizer Bar Link.
     
    #4 jkash, Sep 15, 2016
  5. jkash

    jkash Member

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    #5 jkash, Sep 15, 2016
  6. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    Stab link replacement is very common. Usually you'll hear some squeaks and clunking over bumps. What your pissed about is the $500 but at the dealer your at $150 so thats simple math there.... it adds up fast. You need to find a decent mechanic as there is nothing unusual about the front end of the car its like any other car. What I will tell you though is if you find a mechanic buy OEM Toyota Stab links online and have a mechanic install them. Up on a rack its about an hour. Anything other than OEM parts is a waste of your time. There's so much China crap out now in suspension parts. Like Moog which is is complete crap now. Or any other crap you will buy at a parts store.

    Here you go...there $83 a piece you need 2. So the dealer is drilling you for 2 hours so really not that out of line at all.....at the dealer.

    2007 Toyota Prius Parts - Toyota Parts Superstore

    Indie mechanics charge about $80 an hour here. But be aware if the stab links are blown out there's alot more hidden gems up front. Like CV's & struts & ball joints & brakes & the rack. Stabs may be the least of your issues. How many miles on your 04?
     
    #6 edthefox5, Sep 15, 2016
    Last edited: Sep 15, 2016
    Wes_33073, Fostel, skeenan1343 and 2 others like this.
  7. MidnightSun

    MidnightSun Junior Member

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    Best advice given!!!!
     
    #7 MidnightSun, Sep 19, 2019
    edthefox5 likes this.
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