Lucky you dont own a citroen then, its £1200+vat+fitting for there columns!
The Fiat dealer isn't ripping you off, they have to pay for the part & techs time + make a profit, afterall its a business.
There are other ways & solutions well documented on this forum for you to think about, having a accident with what in effect is potential faulty steering of which you are fully aware of could cost you alot more in the long run.