broken down on french motor - front ball joint i think

[mattrsa]

500 miles into a planned 3000 mile trip. We think the front right ball joint is broken as there was excessive movement when I jacked it up. Waiting for tow trunk now. How much should I expect this to cost

[California Dreamin]

Top? two allen key bolts and a big hammer to get the taper joint loose, about an hour labour and £25 for a good quality joint.
Same price for the lower joint but I'm pretty sure the lower is pressed into the arm so one and a half to two hours labour on the lower.
Typical back street price in the UK £50.00 per hour labour and around £85.00 at VW main dealer (add 20% for Euro)

Martin