alignment - first replace idler arm bushing?
 

Car is a 1999 clk 320; steering assembly/drag link (one piece includes both tie rods and center drag link) was replaced about 5 years ago with oem part; idler arm has never been serviced. Just got new tires because old ones were badly worn on inside and outside edges. Took the car to dealer for alignment. Wife was told first to replace steering links (drag link assembly & idler arm bushing), steering shock, and stabilizer bar bushings, for total of $1250. Wow!! Got a second opinion today from the indie I use - he said to replace only the steering assembly and steering shock. From my search, a worn idler arm bushing contributes to uneven tire wear. Should I have the idler arm bushing replaced as preventive maintenance? Is the idler bushing job easier or less expensive if the drag link is done at the same time? Thanks.

If the idler arm bushings are worn, you will have toe-in (out) changes.

It's not only easier to replace at the same time as the rest of the work is being done, but it avoids the cost of a second alignment.

Good news, and I have my fingers crossed the idler arm stays put. Alignment shop said that with the new steering linkage everything else was nice and tight, and he aligned the car to eliminate the toe-in excess.