2018 Tundra MX question

Question for the group?

I just took my 2018 tundra Crew-Max w/ 94k miles, 33in tires, and a 3in leveling kit, into the local Toyota dealership for service. I drive my truck on the road/freeway to and from work and THATS IT! They said I NEED to replace my "Rod and pinion" ASAP (among many other things).

Has anyone replaced the ROD AND PINION themselves? If so, any recommendations?

I have a buddy who is a mechanic with a shop and I'm planning on taking my truck to him for help, but it seems weird to me this needs to be replaced under 100k miles? I'm NO mechanic by any means so I need the help.

Below is a list of the fixes TOYOTA said I needed in order of priority. I'm throwing around the idea of purchasing a STAGE 2 ICON lift setup, but don't want to damage other components further.....ANY HELP ANYONE HAS IS GREATLY APPRECIATED!!!!

Toyota also said I need to fix the following:
1- Outter tie Rod end
2- Rack and Pinion (found to be seeping Power steering fluid)
3- Front stabilizer bar Link (Both front end links are ripping/cracking)
4- Front lower control arm (Both front L. Control Arms starting to Rip/crack)
5- REAR SHOCKS (remove and replace)
6- Front shocks (remove and replace)
7- 4 wheel alignment

 

Id get a 2nd opinion first.....from a local, well reviewed shop....not any toyota dealer. Have someone else check it and see where you are.

If you are handy, you can check most of those things too, check for play, leaks, etc.

 

99% chance the person inspecting your vehicle is a trying to rip you off. Unless you treat your truck like you’re running the Baja 1000, I can pretty much guarantee there is nothing wrong with your lower control arms.

Do you have any drivability issues?

As for the “front stabilizer bar” I can only assume you’re referring to the sway bar - I removed mine completely and the truck drives better without it. YMMV.

 

I would guess that is the ball joint boots for the LCAs, but I agree that estimate is probably a ripoff. Post some pics of the the "issues" and we can guide you.