Are hood struts easy to replace?
Hood struts, also known as hood lift supports, play a crucial role in keeping your vehicle's hood securely open while you work on the engine or perform maintenance tasks. Over time, these struts can wear out, leading to a hood that may not stay open or closes unexpectedly. If you're wondering whether replacing hood struts is a task you can handle yourself, this article will provide you with a detailed overview of the process, including the tools you'll need and the steps involved.
Understanding Hood Struts
Hood struts are gas-filled cylinders that provide support for the hood of your vehicle. They are designed to lift the hood and hold it in place, making it easier for you to access the engine compartment. When they fail, you may notice that the hood doesn't stay up or requires extra effort to lift. Fortunately, replacing hood struts is a relatively straightforward task that many car owners can do themselves.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin the replacement process, gather the following tools and materials:
- New hood struts (specific to your vehicle model)
- Flathead screwdriver
- Socket wrench set
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Steps to Replace Hood Struts
Follow these steps to replace your hood struts:
- Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself during the process.
- Open the Hood: Lift the hood and secure it with a prop rod if necessary.
- Remove the Old Struts: Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry off the retaining clips that hold the struts in place. Then, use a socket wrench to remove any bolts if applicable.
- Install the New Struts: Position the new struts in place and secure them by pushing the retaining clips back on or tightening the bolts.
- Test the Hood: Carefully release the prop rod and test the new struts by lifting the hood to ensure it stays open securely.
Conclusion
Replacing hood struts is a manageable task that can save you time and money. With the right tools and a little patience, you can restore the functionality of your vehicle's hood in no time. If you encounter any difficulties or prefer professional assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to your local auto service provider for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take a mechanic to replace struts?
How Long Does Shock and Strut Replacement Take? The time it takes to replace shocks and struts depends on your vehicle's type and the mechanic's experience level. Generally, it takes about two to four hours to replace four shock absorbers, with struts usually taking about an hour longer.
How much does it cost to replace hood struts?
The average cost for a Hood Support Strut Replacement is between $136 and $145. Labor costs are estimated between $32 and $40 while parts are priced between $104 and $105. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
How long does it take to replace hood struts?
How to Replace a Hood Strut. For most vehicles, this is a five-minute job. A few take a little longer and require more tools due to the type of retainer on the strut and vehicle. Most support lift struts use these spring steel clamps to secure the strut to a ball stud.
Can you refill hood struts?
Recharging gas struts is a potential solution to restore their functionality. Please note that regassing gas struts requires special equipment and training. We advise you not to try and recharge the gas strut yourself but instead seek professional assistance to regas your gas struts safely.
Can I drive with bad struts?
Once the wear starts hampering your vehicle's performance, your service provider will likely recommend replacing the worn part to restore your car's ride and handling. If you choose to wait to inspect worn shocks and struts, you jeopardize your ability to stop, steer and maintain stability.
Is it easy to replace struts yourself?
Shock replacement is relatively simple, but strut replacement can be challenging and not the best DIY project for a novice who is limited with tool selection (especially air tools), who lives in the rust belt or does not have a service manual.
Are front struts hard to replace?
Installing the new strut is the reverse of the removal, but it's very tricky and sometimes impossible to get it into place and hold it there while you get the nuts started. So enlist the help of a friend for the actual installation.
What causes hood struts to go bad?
Some common issues struts face include leaks, failure to hold the hood open, or difficulty closing the hood. For the leaks, it's usually due to the seals wearing out and gas finding a place to escape. Needless to say, leaks result in struts not functioning well and a dwindling lifespan.
Do I need an alignment after replacing struts?
It depends on the vehicle design. A strut by design is also a component that supports the wheel & tire. Some models aren't affected when the struts are replaced while others do change the wheel alignment. Strut removal & installation potentially changes the position of the tire alignment.
How much will a shop charge to replace front struts?
Shocks and struts replacement costs somewhere between $450 and $1,100. It's possible to remove just the shocks or the struts, but it may produce mixed results performance-wise. Common symptoms of failing shocks and struts include knocking sounds, bumpy rides, cupped tire wear pattern, and more.
