The human body requires maintenance and a visit to the doctor’s time and again. Similarly, your vehicle requires cleaning, servicing, and even replacement of parts. That is why you need to know better about shocks and struts replacement cost more than any other people.
Speaking of replacement of parts, shocks and struts are the essential aspects of the vehicle’s suspension. Probably, you may not have to replace these, but wear and tear is always a possibility. Many vehicle owners wish to know about our today’s topic.
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Comprehensive Shocks and Struts Replacement Cost Guide
Here’s an elaborate guide for all those who are wondering what it costs and why it is crucial to get the shocks and struts replaced.
Let’s straight dive into the topic!
Why Shocks and Struts are Important?
For starters, vehicle owners should know the importance of shocks and struts.
The majority of modern-day vehicles have their shocks at the rear side, and the struts are located in the front. They have the same function, but neither of them can replace the other. A shock cannot replace the struts and vice versa.
There are two functions of the vehicle’s suspension system –
- The driver’s comfort is a priority. The suspension system helps in maximizing the overall comfort while a person is driving the car. It will minimize vibrations or weird noises.
- The suspension system helps in boosting the performance of the vehicle. It shall reduce body rolling when you corner the car. It also helps in the braking process. While driving the car, safety is of utmost importance. Hence, shocks and struts are needed.
The question is – What are shocks and struts? For a novice, it would be a completely alien concept. You are aware of all the necessary vehicle vocabulary. Still, the shocks and struts are not a part of your pre-existing knowledge. Before we tell you more about shocks replacement cost, take a look at what these parts are.
Strut
The strut of an automobile is a structural part of the suspension system. It also affects the alignment angles and is an integral part of the steering system.
The strut has a coil spring. Hence, the alignment would be required to replace the strut. That’s precisely the reason why struts replacement is more expensive than shocks replacement.
Shocks
The shock absorber has one function. It helps to keep the vehicle from bouncing. For better handling, the car needs shock absorbers.
Both shocks and struts have the same function, but they are different from each other. Both do the job of stopping bounce and oscillation. One can say that shocks and struts you need for the comfort of the driver. Most importantly, it is a must for the safety of the driver.
Still, wondering whether you should replace the parts or not. Read on to find out why you need to get a replacement for it.
Why Should You Replace Shocks and Struts in Your Vehicle?
Since the suspension system of the car/any vehicle is extremely crucial, you must invest in the replacement of shocks and struts.
Damaged/worn-out shocks and struts could affect the overall performance of the vehicle. If you do not want your car to perform poorly on-road, replacement is necessary.
If you do not replace it, you can expect all the dangerous happenings on the road, including body roll, swaying of the vehicle, rickety handling, and reduced braking.
Now let’s tell you the average car shocks replacement cost. This will help you plan your finances better! You should be aware of the average costs so that nobody charges you a fortune for it. It is good to be a knowledgeable consumer, right?
The Commercials
Many people ask us how much does it cost to replace shocks and struts? Here we have discussed this crucial topic.
Shocks Replacement Cost – The Average Cost
One can replace shocks are in pairs. The cost of replacing these would be less as compared to the struts. Since we mentioned it before, struts are a structural part and are quite complicated.
Replacing a pair of shocks would cost you between $250-$580. In order to complete the job, it will take between $150-$300.
In case you are purchasing shock absorbers individually, then it will cost you between $50-$140.
If you have to replace all the four shocks and struts, you can multiple the costs, as mentioned earlier by 2. This will give you an estimate of the replacement cost.
The rear shocks replacement cost is between $227-$360. The parts come for $78-$175. Whereas, the mechanic/labor would take anything between $150-$190.
Please note: The cost might be higher for luxury vehicles. The same goes for fancy sports vehicles. This is because luxurious cars use advanced shocks and struts.
Struts Replacement Cost – The Average Cost
Your mind is thinking of cutting costs! As a responsible driver and owner of the vehicle, you must never get a half-hearted job done. Consider it as an investment! Your car will function smoothly, and you will get to drive it safely on a regular road.
A damaged shock and strut could cost you someone’s (YOUR) life. Even if you think that the second strut is in good shape, you would need to replace it in pairs.
Strut replacement cost differs from brand to brand. It also depends on the model of the car.
The cost will be higher as compared to the shocks in your vehicle. Expect to pay between $450-$950. This is the average cost of replacing struts in pairs. If you are thinking about an individual strut, it costs $150-$300.
Labor for strut replacement comes at about $150-$300 for a pair of struts.
If you are heading to a car dealership, the cost of getting struts replaced will be higher. Expect to pay a whopping amount ($1000 or more) for the job. In case you find an independent mechanic, they will do the same position for a lesser price.
You can shop for the parts and then get them replaced by an independent mechanic. Choosing between the two is your prerogative.
Additionally, wheel alignment is necessary after replacing the struts. Two-wheel alignments would cost you anywhere between $40-$80.
Meanwhile, if all four struts are being replaced, the alignment of all four wheels would cost between $80-$160.
Is it possible to replace the shocks and struts on my own?
Are you worried about the replacement cost? Well, a car requires maintenance and replacements from time to time. You should be ready for the additional charges. While replacing the shocks is more comfortable, the struts need to be replaced by a professional.
There is always the possibility of getting injured while dealing with struts and shocks.
If you are not sure of what you need to do or what you are doing, then consider going to an independent mechanic. In case you can afford the dealership costs, you can get it all done by them.
Further, if you are buying struts (assemblies), it will be easier to replace them as compared to getting individual struts.
What are the signs of damaged shocks and struts?
Before heading out for a long romantic drive or just cruising around with friends, you must get your vehicle checked. Damaged struts and shocks could lead to compromised safety.
Signs Your Struts and Shocks are Damaged:
- The steering will make a weird noise.
- The steering wheel will be stiff.
- You noticed mounts are broken/damaged/worn out.
- The car is swaying when you are turning it.
- You noticed hydraulic fluid leaking from the struts.
- Your tires are getting worn out (uneven).
- The ride is getting bumpy and shaky.
Concluding Thoughts
Shocks and struts replacement costs can differ from brand to brand and the model of your car. Always remember that damaged struts can ruin other parts of your vehicle.
Automakers have recommended that vehicle owners should change the struts after the car has driven 50,000 miles. However, you can replace it after 100,000 miles too. That’s a safe range!
When you are out for a getaway and drive your car to the destination, you will come across bumpy roads. Shocks and struts ensure that you are safe on these roads.
If your car cannot get a good grip on the road or the wheel bounces, it is a dangerous sign for you. In addition, shocks and struts have a direct impact on steering, handling, and braking.
It is not as expensive as your life.
You must think of it as an investment! People buy cars for their comfort, security, and time-saving commute.
If your car has damaged struts and shocks, you would never reach the destination safely. Hence, consider replacing the shocks and struts in your vehicle. Get them replaced in pairs and find an individual mechanic to perform the replacement process.
Hi, it’s Md Anwar H.
CSE (Computer Science & Engineering) & MSC from Port City International University.
Working infield of WordPress, eCommerce Develop, SEO, Digital Marketing, Google AdSense an Affiliate Marketing Since 2010.
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