Need Some Advice Please

[bluethud]

I recently took my 2008 CX-7 to the mechanic to have new tires put on. I was told that I needed new tie rod ends, and needed to be replaced right away as the old ones are really bad. So I went ahead and got them done. The other day while my car was parked, I had the wheel turned all the way cause I dropped something under the car. What I think are the tie rod ends look like the originals with the car. I have owned this car since new and this would have been the first time they were replaced. Can someone please look at the attached picture and give me a opinion. They were supposedly replaced about 4k miles ago.

Thank you for any help.

1st_pic.jpg

[Ozynigma]

Visually rust can appear very quickly especially if you drive on salted roads. The real test is whether the ball joints are tight or loose. If they are loose you will be able to get side to side wiggle with one wheel off the ground.

Of course if they are good that is no guarantee you got what you paid for. A reputable mechanic will always be willing to show you the old parts removed. Some insist upon it.

[bluethud]

Thank you, here is the kicker. I said I had them replaced about 4k ago, maybe a little closer to 5k. But I did that in a little over a month. I drive alot for work, so that is why I am wondering about the rust and the nut looks like it has never been touched.

[Ozynigma]

I am doing my brakes and suspension in the next week or so and I will see if I can get you a comparison photo.