This is not an easy DIY job and unless you have a more experienced person to assist and guide you I would not recommend. Labor of 2 hrs at a shop plus parts makes it a reasonable cost repair which should not require an alignment.

Any effect on mileage would be imperceptible.

98 Mystique LS v6 atx 163,000km 97 Contour LX v6 atx 163,000km