What should a technician advise a customer if there is play in the lift-side inner tie-rod?

When there is play in the lift-side inner tie-rod, it is essential for a technician to recommend replacing the inner tie-rod before proceeding with an alignment. This is because the inner tie-rod is a critical component of the steering system, and any play in this area can lead to incorrect steering angles and alignment issues.

Replacing the inner tie-rod ensures that the steering system is functioning correctly and that the vehicle can be aligned accurately. If the tie-rod is not replaced and an alignment is performed, the alignment settings will not hold properly, leading to uneven tire wear, compromised handling, and potentially unsafe driving conditions. Therefore, addressing the issue of play in the tie-rod before alignment is a key step in comprehensive vehicle maintenance.