how much to repair struts on a car

How much does it cost to install struts?

Struts cost between $725 and $750 for a set, including installation, according to Mogab. Shocks cost less than struts, typically between $100 and $150 apiece, according to experts. It typically takes two to three hours to replace shocks and struts, according to highly rated mechanics.

How much does it cost to repair a strut?

The average cost for a strut replacement generally runs between $450 and $900 to replace a pair. If you are just replacing a single strut, the repair price will come to between $130 and $300, while labor will cost you between $150 and $300 for the pair. If you are replacing shocks, you can expect to pay between $250 and $580 to replace two shocks.

How much does it cost to replace rear struts?

The average strut replacement cost is between $200 and $500, depending on the car model and labor costs. The average price for one strut is $150 to $300 and the labor cost is $50 to $200 It is recommended to replace both struts on the axle if one is bad.

How much to replace struts and shocks?

• It is recommended to replace both struts on the axle if one is bad. ...
• You can either replace a complete strut with a spring and top mount bearing or replace just the shock. A complete strut increases the price a bit.
• It is recommended to make a wheel alignment after any work in the front suspension.

Is it expensive to fix struts?

It usually costs between $150 to $450 per strut, depending on your make and model. Usually, both struts need to be replaced at the same time. Your cost for replacing a pair of struts will be between $300 and $900. Strut replacement can take several hours.

How much does it cost to have your struts replaced?

When it comes to struts, they are a fair bit more expensive. To replace a pair of struts, the total cost on average is between $400 and $1000, including wheel alignment. An individual strut assembly costs approximately $150 to $350, while the labor cost is $100 to $300 for a pair.

Can you drive a car with damaged struts?

Can I drive with a damaged strut? No. It needs to be repaired as soon as possible. A strut works by absorbing the bounce of your car driving over bumps in the road.

What are the symptoms of a bad strut on a car?

The Warning Signs Of Worn Shocks And StrutsInstability at highway speeds. ... Vehicle “tips” to one side in turns. ... The front end dives more than expected during hard braking. ... Rear-end squat during acceleration. ... Tires bouncing excessively. ... Unusual tire wear. ... Leaking fluid on the exterior of shocks or struts.

Should you replace all 4 struts at once?

Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs (front axle or rear axle), and it's even better to replace the shocks/struts on all four wheels at one time. This helps maintain reliable handling and a consistent response on both sides of the vehicle.

What happens if you don't replace your struts?

By not doing it's job – absorbing the shock – not having them replaced can lead to damage in the ball joints, wheel hubs, and many other components of the suspension. Without something to absorb the shock and energy of hitting a bump, it spreads throughout your car and will lead to damage.

What does a worn strut sound like?

Bad strut sounds are usually described as a hollow clunking or banging type of sound. You'll typically hear the noise when the vehicle is traveling over irregularities in the road. Most front strut assemblies also have a bearing at the top.

What causes a strut to break?

A strut is a 3-foot-long shock absorber and spring assembly. There's one at each wheel. And we frequently see struts become bent in accidents. Depending on the angle and how hard you hit it, you certainly could break a strut by banging against a concrete barrier at high speed.

Can you replace 1 strut at a time?

Always replace struts in pairs, never one at a time. Replace your struts if you notice any of these issues: They're leaking. A very light film of oil near the top of the strut is OK, but fluid leaking down the side of the strut means it's shot.

Can bad struts affect transmission?

Transmission – If your tires have to absorb extra wear and heat due to weakened struts it means your transmission and axles have more stress on them as well. This stress leads to premature aging and expensive repairs sooner rather than later.

How long do struts last?

On average, if your car has been “babied,” you can expect your shocks/struts to last about 10 years. If you have really used your car like a workhorse, 5 years is probably all you can expect. This means that for the average driver, 7 or 8 years is the maximum life expectancy of most shocks and struts.

How long does it take to get struts replaced?

around one to two hoursTypically, it takes around one to two hours to change struts, according to most professional mechanics. Even if you decide to replace them on your own, the estimated time is the same as long as you have previous mechanical skills and follow the process correctly.

How long do struts last on a car?

On average, if your car has been “babied,” you can expect your shocks/struts to last about 10 years. If you have really used your car like a workhorse, 5 years is probably all you can expect. This means that for the average driver, 7 or 8 years is the maximum life expectancy of most shocks and struts.

Can you replace struts yourself?

These assemblies allow you to replace both of your front struts yourself in less than two hours. You'll have to get an alignment done afterward (about $100), but you'll still save about $300 by doing the job yourself. You'll need rust penetrant, wrenches, a pin punch or large screwdriver, and a thin piece of plywood.

Is a strut and a shock the same thing?

However, shocks and struts are two distinct parts with different functions. While both can help with your vehicle's ride and handling, these parts work in different ways. Shocks are individual components of the suspension system while struts are a major structural component of the chassis and suspension system.

Strut Replacement Cost Guide

We’ve collected some sample costs for having the struts replaced at some of the leading auto repair chains in the country. This will vary from loca...

When Should You Have Strut Replacement done?

If your struts just recently blew, you can still drive your car around, but you do need to be careful about very bumpy or unpaved roads. Those are...

What Is Done During A Strut Replacement?

1. You can actually replace the struts n your own if you know what to look for and how to do it. There are many guides online that can walk you thr...

How to Save Money on Strut Replacement

As mentioned, you can do the job yourself. It may take some time, and it can be dangerous to prop the vehicle up on a jack, but if you are careful...

Example Strut Replacement Costs

Below are the costs to have a single or a double strut replacement done for some of the most popular cars in the country. This price may vary from...

When Should Shocks And Struts Be Replaced?

Now that you know what shocks are and how they differ from struts, it is important to know when they should each be replaced.

How to test struts?

The only way to test the struts is by doing a road test and paying attention if any signs of bad struts such as shakes, rattles, nosedive appears.

What is the role of shock absorbers in a car?

Shock absorbers and struts play a key role in making your car drive smoothly and absorb all the shocks from uneven asphalt and potholes.

What is the difference between a shock absorber and a strut?

The greatest difference is that a strut is integrated with the suspension system, while shock absorbers are not. Because of this, struts have a few more functions than shocks.

What do shocks and struts do?

The shocks and struts of a car absorb all the inconsistencies on the road such as uneven roads and potholes. They also stabilize your car when you turn, brake and, accelerate.

Why are shocks and struts incorrectly used interchangeably?

Shocks and struts are incorrectly used interchangeably sometimes. The reason for this is that their function is the same.

Why is my car tilting and vibrating?

If your car starts behaving strangely by vibrating, swerving while braking, or tilting after a gush of wind, your shocks or struts may be bad and should be checked.

How much does it cost to replace struts?

To replace an individual strut, you are looking to pay anywhere from $133 and $439. To replace both the cost will usually be between $239 and $818. Your mechanic will likely recommend that your wheels be realigned as well when the struts are replaced.

When Should You Have Strut Replacement Done?

If your struts just recently blew, you can still drive your car around, but you do need to be careful about very bumpy or unpaved roads. Those are going to take a heavier toll on your vehicle and you.

What happens if your struts are blown?

If your struts are blown, then you will likely notice a major difference once they are replaced. Your ride is going to be far less bumpy. Each small imperfection in the road won’t feel like a jolt anymore. You probably notice the difference in how your vehicle rides when you fill your tires with air comply.

What holds a strut in place?

A pinch bolt usually holds the strut in place. A breaker bar can be used to pry it off, though it can be taken off by other means as well if a breaker bar is not handy. The sway bar may also be in the way, so that will have to be dropped as well.

What is struts in a car?

Struts are part of the suspension assembly in your car. If you notice that your vehicle doesn’t bounce all over the road every time you hit a small bump, then you have your suspension assembly, and particularly your struts, to thank for that. But once those struts are blown, then you need to have them replaced.

Can you replace struts on your own?

You can actually replace the struts n your own if you know what to look for and how to do it. There are many guides online that can walk you through step by step. Here, you’ll get a little overview of what is involved with a strut replacement. The mechanic (or you) is going to start by taking off the wheels.

Can you take out struts?

From there, the bolts holding the struts in place can be loosened and removed. Then the struts can be taken out and replaced. The mechanic should put a little grease on the struts to keep them lubed up.

How much does it cost to replace shocks?

Usually, the average cost to replace shocks and struts comes in between $50 and $900 on the high end to replace just the pair of struts. In addition, you will have to pay the labor costs for this job, which typically come in between $150 and $300 on average.

What are struts?

Analyzing the average cost to replace shocks and struts, you will find many similarities in both parts in terms of the function, construction, and overall mechanism. However, some differences are imperative to understanding how to keep your vehicle running at a high level and the replacement costs as low as possible.

Why do shocks feel vibration?

If the shock is not sitting in the right spot, it can allow fluid to flow past the valve. The flowing of fluid will lead to an incorrect fluid level and cause leaks, causing uneven terrain to cause excessive vibration that you can feel in the steering wheel. As soon as you feel vibrations in the wheel, you can expect to pay a higher average cost to replace shocks and struts.

How do shocks and struts work?

The shocks and struts keep the car smoothly on the road, prevent any swaying back and forth, and enhance the vehicle’s stability to work effectively on varying terrain. Determining the average cost to replace shocks and struts is usually characterized by replacing both struts or both shocks in pairs since everything has to be done simultaneously.

What is a shock absorber?

The shock absorber in your vehicle keeps the tires on the ground while driving on rough terrain and uneven roads, ensuring the ride is smooth and comfortable. This mechanism allows you to maintain proper control of the vehicle and keep it from veering off of the road in tough conditions. Although struts and shocks are designed the same, ...

What is a shock suspension?

In a vehicle that uses a shock suspension, shocks are used to dampen the vibrations and keep a smooth ride. In this type of suspension, struts replace the shock absorbers, controlling the bouncing amount in your car and preventing sudden stops from jerking your vehicle. Although shocks are standard, when looking at the average cost ...

How does a shock leak?

If this is the case, the shock will begin to leak fluid down the mechanism’s side and drip onto the ground. This loss of fluid can reduce the shock’s ability, causing a higher average cost to replace shocks and struts.

How much does it cost to replace a shock?

A typical shock and strut replacement can set you back anywhere between $450 and $1,100 on parts and labor combined. An individual shock and strut assembly costs around $150 to $900, while estimated labor costs for replacing a shock and strut assembly can range anywhere from $150 to $300 per assembly. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on your location and your type of vehicle suspension.

How to tell if struts are worn out?

Shocks and struts can wear out faster if the vehicle is frequently driven on rough roads. Old and failing shocks and struts may exhibit any of the following symptoms: Knocking, thumping, or rattling sounds. Bumpy ride. The vehicle’s front or rear end dips when accelerating or braking hard.

What are the symptoms of a failing shock?

Symptoms of Failing Shocks and Struts. No automotive part is immune to wear. A shock absorber and strut assembly typically endures more wear than most, especially if the vehicle is frequently driven on rough roads. No automotive part is immune to wear.

How much does it cost to have a wheel alignment?

The cost of a wheel alignment can vary between $150 and $200. Meanwhile, the supplies for the job will set you back by about $20. Installing new shocks and struts can alter vehicle alignment. This results in uneven tire wear, which may contribute to early tire failure.

Why do front struts wear out?

Because they operate constantly and often endure rough use, both shocks and struts can wear out earlier than their expected average lifespan ...

Can you save labor on auto repair?

Drivers with extensive experience in DIY auto repair may save on labor costs by removing the old shocks and struts and installing the new ones themselves. However, if you lack the knowledge and tools for the job, it’s better to leave it to a professional.

Can you drive with old shocks?

While it’s possible to drive with old or damaged shocks and strut assemblies, it won’t feel pleasant. Furthermore, extreme wear on these parts can reduce a vehicle’s handling and braking performance, ultimately compromising safety. Despite knowing the disadvantages, some drivers may feel reluctant to replace worn or damaged shocks and struts.

How much does it cost to replace a strut?

As a general rule of thumb, typical strut replacement cost runs about $600 to $700 per pair.

What else to replace when you’re doing struts?

In many cases the shop has to disconnect one end of the stabilizer bar end links in order to remove the strut. Stabilizer bar end links are fairly inexpensive (usually less than $40 each). Ask the shop if they have to disconnect the stabilizer bar end links on your vehicle. If so, ask if they’ll cut you a better price on end link replacement since you’ve already paid for half the labor.

What is a strut assembly?

A strut assembly consists of the strut, coil spring, dust boot, and strut mount. There are two ways to replace struts. Both methods involve removing the old strut assembly from the vehicle. Once it’s out of the vehicle the shop can disassemble the strut from the strut mount and spring or they can install a brand new assembly that includes all new parts.

How do struts work?

A strut’s job is to “dampen spring rebound.” In other words, if you hit a bump, the struts prevent the tire from bouncing several times after the initial bounce. When struts wear out, the tire may bounce three or more times after hitting a bump, and that reduces your control of the vehicle and increases your stopping distance? By how much? Well, tests show that worn struts can cause your tires to spend so much time in the air bouncing that those worn struts can actually increase your stopping distance from a 60-MPH stop by as much as 12-feet. That can mean the difference between life and death. If you drive much beyond the 80,000 mile mark on your struts, you’re simply gambling with your life.

How long do struts last?

The strut manufacturers recommend replacement every 50,000 miles. Nobody does that. The truth is, they usually last about 80,000 miles. Here’s how to know when yours are worn out and how to buy new ones.

What are the different struts?

They make just about all the replacement struts used by shops. However, they make different grades of struts—economy and premium. Chain operated repair shops usually buy private labeled economy struts, but they charge premium prices. They’ll offer you a lifetime warranty, but the warranty doesn’t cover labor. If you take your car to a chain operated repair shop, you’ll usually get lower quality parts for higher prices. Get it?

How much do struts increase stopping distance?

Well, tests show that worn struts can cause your tires to spend so much time in the air bouncing that those worn struts can actually increase your stopping distance from a 60-MPH stop by as much as 12-feet. That can mean the difference between life and death.

What affects the cost of car suspension?

These include the type of vehicle and model being serviced, the quality and source of the parts used, and the labor cost being applied which depends on the auto shop’s location.

How long does it take to replace a front suspension arm?

The labor time to replace the front lower control arm is estimated at 1.9 hours.

What is a steering knuckle?

Steering knuckle or rear knuckle. The knuckle connects various suspension members together. On the front, it has a steering arm to which the tie rod attaches and is called a steering knuckle. Typically, it is a non-wearing item made of cast iron or cast aluminum.

How much does it cost to replace a left upper arm?

To replace the left upper arm, the additional labor would cost about $70 either way. The front suspension is a Macpherson strut type and uses a lower control arm with a press-in ball joint.

What is a vehicle suspension?

A vehicle’s suspension is made up of numerous components, and the list varies with the type of suspension used and the specific engineering of the vehicle. The weak points of suspension components are typically at their points of movement. Because of this, the repair can be costly and very meticulous as you may not only be dealing ...

What are the ball joints on a front suspension?

On an independent front suspension, there are two ball joints: an upper and a lower.

What are the parts of a car that support the weight of the chassis?

Below is a list of some of the parts involved: Springs. These support the weight of the vehicle; holding the weight of the chassis and frame assembly up off the suspension. Springs are typically non-wear items, but they establish the ride height of the vehicle and can, in some cases, weaken with age.