I would agree to have someone who knows steering systems look at it (someone without financial concerns on the repair) to get a good idea of what is actually at fault. The dealer will in most cases try to sell you parts and labor...based on a limited inspection.

Ian might charge you some beer for his time though... (I hear he doesn't drink the cheap stuff though )

However, I would tend to disagree with your boyfriend that a worn steering component denotes a poor overall build quality...