Have your car rides been extra bumpy lately, and tiny potholes on the road feel like mini earthquakes?
Your struts are probably damaged.
Struts are crucial components of your vehicle’s suspension system — they absorb shocks and help keep your vehicle stable. Bad struts make your car rides uncomfortable and highly unsafe. That’s why timely replacement is essential.
Worried that it will be hard on your wallet?
Don’t stress — we’ll explain everything about strut replacement cost, pricing factors, and signs of damage. We’ll also share easy money-saving tips to keep your repair budget in check.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Strut Replacement Cost?
- How to Save Money on Strut Replacement
- 6 Telltale Signs Your Car Needs New Struts
- How Often Should You Replace the Struts?
- Can You Keep Driving with Worn Struts?
- Can You Replace a Damaged Strut Yourself?
How Much Does a Strut Replacement Cost?
Here’s a breakdown of the expenses and pricing factors:
A. Range
The average cost to replace a strut assembly is between $300 and $1,200.
This includes:
- Parts cost: $150 and $900
- Labor costs: $150 to $300
B. Factors Affecting Cost
The average strut replacement cost varies depending on your vehicle’s model and the repair shop’s location.
These additional factors will further determine your total bill:
- Car make and model: Struts replacement cost for luxury and performance vehicles can be high due to complex suspension systems and the need for specialized tools or expertise.
- Strut assemblies vs. individual parts: Replacing a complete strut assembly — which includes the strut mount, bumper, insulators, and spring — costs more in parts but saves on labor since it’s pre-assembled. Replacing just the strut is cheaper upfront but labor-intensive, as it requires disassembling and reinstalling multiple components.
- Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) vs. aftermarket parts: OEM parts are more expensive but offer a better fit and reliable performance. Aftermarket alternatives are often cheaper but may lack durability.
- Type of repair shop: Dealerships typically charge more than independent shops to cover overhead costs. They may also suggest additional diagnostic services that might not be immediately necessary but tend to inflate the final bill.
- Additional repairs: Extra costs may arise if wheel alignment, control arm, or any other suspension component needs attention. A two-wheel alignment typically adds $50 to $100 to the final bill, while a four-wheel alignment ranges from $100 to $200.
How to Save Money on Strut Replacement
Some smart tips to cut down on strut replacement costs are:
- Compare quotes: Check prices from different dealerships, independent shops, and mobile mechanics. Also, enquire about special offers and discounts.
- Choose a reputable shop: Read reviews and ask about warranties on labor and parts.
- Pick an experienced mechanic: Look for a technician familiar with your vehicle’s suspension system to ensure thorough inspection and proper strut installation.
- Opt for high-quality aftermarket parts: Quality aftermarket struts can be cheaper than OEM options but offer the same performance.
- Get a complete strut assembly: Replacing the complete strut assembly can lower labor costs.
6 Telltale Signs Your Car Needs New Struts
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace your car struts:
- Excessive bouncing: If your car continues to bounce after hitting a bump, the struts aren’t absorbing impact properly.
- Nose dives when braking: A bad strut can cause the front end of your vehicle to dip when you hit the brakes, which reduces stopping efficiency.
- Uneven tire wear: Cupping or bald spots on tires indicate poor suspension support.
- Steering issues: Difficulty turning or increased body roll when cornering can signal failing struts.
- Strange noises: Clunking or knocking sounds over bumps suggest internal damage.
- Leaking fluid: Oil leaks from the struts means the internal seals are damaged.
How Often Should You Replace the Struts?
Struts generally need replacement every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, but their lifespan also depends on your driving conditions and habits.
Rough roads, heavy loads, corrosion from moisture or road salt, and impact damage from minor collisions can all accelerate wear. In some cases, manufacturing defects may also lead to premature failure.
That’s why a timely replacement is key to avoiding costly repairs down the line.
Can You Keep Driving with Worn Struts?
No, driving with bad struts is unsafe and can lead to serious problems.
A worn strut reduces vehicle stability, braking efficiency, and tire traction, making it harder to maintain control — especially during turns. It can also cause the front end to dip excessively during braking, impacting your stopping distance.
Moreover, bad struts can put uneven stress on tires, leading to premature wear, and can damage other suspension components such as shocks, ball joints, and control arms.
Ultimately, failing struts increase the risk of accidents due to unpredictable handling and poor steering response.
Can You Replace a Damaged Strut Yourself?
Replacing a bad strut requires advanced mechanical skills, the right tools, and caution. For example, coil-over struts contain a tightly wound spring under high tension. To remove or install them correctly, you require a spring compressor, which can be dangerous if used improperly.
If you’re not experienced, it’s best to have a professional handle the job. Here’s how they’ll proceed:
- Lift the car and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the wheels by loosening the lug nuts.
- Disconnect components like brake line, sway bar link, and strut mount.
- Remove the old strut by unbolting it from the knuckle and strut tower.
- Install the new strut and tighten bolts as per the manufacturer specifications.
- Reconnect components such as brake lines and sway bar links.
- Reinstall wheels and torque lug nuts properly.
- Perform a wheel alignment to prevent uneven tire wear and handling issues.
Restore Your Suspension System with a Quick Struts Replacement
A worn strut can make your car feel like a bumpy amusement park ride. A timely replacement isn’t just about comfort — it’s also about avoiding costly damage and staying safe on the road.
If you think your struts are failing, skip the risky drive to a repair shop.
Let AutoNation Mobile Service bring skilled mechanics straight to your driveway, seven days a week, with clear, upfront pricing.
And that’s not all — all our repairs are backed by a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty for your peace of mind.
Contact us today for reliable strut replacement and other car repairs.