Is your car bouncing over speed bumps like a trampoline? Or swaying oddly when you turn?
That floating, unstable feeling could mean your shocks and struts are worn out.
Driving with bad shocks and struts isn’t just uncomfortable — it can affect your braking, reduce tire life, and compromise safety.
Get them replaced before they cause more serious (and expensive) damage.
Worried about the cost?
In this guide, we’ll cover shocks and struts replacement cost, pricing factors, and the repair process so you know what to expect.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Shocks and Struts Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing Shocks and Struts?
- Can You Fix a Shock or Strut Without Replacing It?
- 8 Red Flags You Need a Shocks and Struts Replacement
- How Are Shocks and Struts Replaced?
How Much Does a Shocks and Struts Replacement Cost?
Here’s a breakdown of the cost of shocks and struts replacement:
A. Range
Replacing shocks and struts costs between $300 and $1,340, which covers:
- Parts’ cost: $150 to $900
- Labor cost: $150 to $440
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Some factors that can affect your final bill include:
- Car make and model: Luxury and performance vehicles often require specialized parts that are more expensive than those in standard models.
- Your location: Labor cost varies depending on the local rates and the mechanic’s expertise.
- Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) vs aftermarket parts: OEM parts are generally pricier but more durable. Aftermarket parts tend to be more affordable but can vary in quality.
- Related repairs: During a strut or shock replacement, a mechanic may recommend changing coil springs, bushings, or ball joints, adding to the expenses. For example, replacing a ball joint may cost an additional $180 to $550.
Is It Worth Replacing Shocks and Struts?
Yes, definitely.
If you ignore worn shocks and struts, your car may take longer to stop, feel shaky on turns, and lose grip on bumpy roads. They also put extra stress on other parts of your vehicle’s suspension system.
That’s why replacing bad shocks and struts is vital for your safety and your vehicle’s optimal performance.
Can You Fix a Shock or Strut Without Replacing It?
Shock absorbers are sealed units and can’t be repaired — they always need to be replaced.
Struts, on the other hand, are generally replaced as complete assemblies. However, in some cases, replacing only the strut’s damaged internal damper is possible if the other suspension system components (coil spring or strut mount) are still in good condition.
That said, if the old strut is badly worn, replacing the entire assembly is the safer and more cost-effective option.
A skilled mechanic can assess each component and recommend the most practical solution.
8 Red Flags You Need a Shocks and Struts Replacement
Here are some signs that your shocks and struts might be failing:
- If bumps in the road feel harsher than they used to and the ride has become noticeably rough, your shocks or struts might be damaged.
- Knocking or clunking sounds from the vehicle’s suspension while turning can mean a failed or loose strut bearing. These noises are caused by metal-to-metal contact inside the assembly.
- If turning the steering wheel feels stiff or unresponsive, or if your car leans or sways during turns, the struts could be the issue.
- When your car dips forward or feels shaky while braking, it’s a sign that the shocks or struts aren’t working properly.
- If the vehicle’s rear end sinks when you accelerate and the front rises, a bad strut is likely the cause.
- Difficulty controlling the car, especially at higher speeds, can also signal worn shocks or struts.
- Visible oily residue on the struts or shocks usually means they’re leaking hydraulic fluid, which is essential for absorbing road impact.
- Strange patterns or cupping on your tires can mean your suspension isn’t keeping the tires in proper contact with the road. This can result from worn struts or shock absorbers.
How Are Shocks and Struts Replaced?
Replacing struts or shocks often requires specialized tools, such as a spring compressor, which can be dangerous if not used properly. Moreover, they’re located in different areas and must be removed separately.
Any mistake during this process can lead to poor vehicle handling and safety hazards on the road. That’s why it’s best to consult a professional for accurate diagnostics and proper installation.
But if you still wish to know how it’s done, here’s a general know-how:
A. Shock Replacement
To replace a shock, the mechanic will:
- Open the hood if the top of the shock (shock tower) is accessible from the engine bay. Otherwise, depending on the vehicle design, they’ll access it from under the vehicle or inside the trunk.
- Remove the top mount bolts of the shock absorber using a socket and ratchet.
- Lift and secure the vehicle with a hoist and remove the front wheel.
- Move to the underside and disconnect the shock from the suspension control arm.
- Pull out the old shock absorber from both the top and bottom mounts.
- Fit the new shock into position on the suspension control arm and align it with the top mount.
- Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.
B. Strut Replacement
This is how a mechanic will go about a strut replacement:
- Open the hood. Then, locate the strut tower and loosen the bolts securing the top of the strut.
- Move to the wheel well. The bottom of the strut is connected to the steering knuckle, as well as key suspension components like the lower control arm and ball joint. They’ll remove the brake rotor, caliper, sway bar link, and disconnect the strut from the steering knuckle.
- Return to the hood and remove the loosened strut tower bolts.
- Use a spring compressor to safely compress the coil spring. Once the spring is fully compressed and secure, they’ll carefully slide the worn strut out of the assembly.
- Install the new strut assembly into the steering knuckle.
- Place the top of the strut into the strut tower and reinstall the strut tower bolts.
- Tighten all bolts, securing the strut assembly to the steering knuckle.
- Reinstall the brake rotor, caliper, and sway bar link.
- Torque everything, including the sway bar link, calipers, and rotors, to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Repeat the process for the other strut or shock, as both on the same axle should be replaced to maintain balanced performance.
- Reinstall the wheel and torque the lug nuts properly before lowering the vehicle.
- Finally, take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the new shocks and struts are working correctly.
NOTE: Replacing struts can alter the suspension geometry, directly impacting wheel alignment. It’s essential to get an alignment after the replacement to ensure overall safety.
Get Hassle-Free Shocks and Struts Replacement with AutoNation Mobile Service
Worn shocks and struts put your car’s stability and safety at risk, especially when turning or braking.
So, why take chances or rack up repair bills?
With AutoNation Mobile Service, there’s no need to waste time or second-guess repairs.
Our certified mechanics are available seven days a week and provide a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty, so you can have peace of mind.
Book your appointment today to get your struts and shocks fixed with care.