Are struts worth replacing?
Yes. Replacing worn struts is generally worth it to restore ride comfort, steering feel, and braking stability; driving with failed struts can compromise handling and tire wear.
What are struts and how do they work?
In most cars, a strut is a key part of the suspension that combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into a single unit. It helps support the vehicle’s weight, absorb bumps, and maintain wheel alignment. On many vehicles, struts also act as a structural component for the suspension, meaning replacing them often involves the entire assembly, including springs and mounts.
Signs your struts may need replacement
If you notice any of the following symptoms, have the suspension inspected by a professional to determine whether replacement is needed.
- Excessive bouncing after hitting potholes or speed bumps
- Nose-diving or unstable braking during hard stops
- Uneven tire wear or unusual tire noise on one corner of the car
- Leaking hydraulic fluid or visible oil on the strut body
- Squeaks, clunks, or banging noises when driving over rough surfaces
- Steering feel that wanders or becomes imprecise, especially at speed
- Sagging ride height or difficulty maintaining tire contact with the road
If you notice these issues, schedule a suspension inspection. Worn struts can affect safety, tire life, and overall vehicle handling, and replacements may be more cost-effective than ongoing repairs caused by additional wear.
Are they worth replacing? Weighing the decision
In most cases, worn struts are worth replacing because they directly influence safety, control, and comfort. The decision depends on factors such as vehicle age, driving style, road conditions, and budget. If you plan to keep the car for several more years, replacement tends to be a prudent investment to avoid further wear on tires and other suspension components. Mechanics typically recommend replacing struts in pairs on the same axle to restore balanced handling and to reduce uneven tire wear. After replacement, an alignment is often needed to maximize tire life and steering accuracy.
- OEM-equivalent struts provide factory-style ride and performance, with reliable durability.
- Gas-charged or high-performance struts offer improved damping and tighter control on rough roads or in spirited driving, at a higher cost.
- Decide between replacing individual struts vs full strut assemblies (which include springs and mounts). Full assemblies can simplify installation and ensure proper preload.
- Replace in pairs per axle to maintain balanced handling; inspect related components (mounts, springs, bushings) for wear and replace as needed.
- Plan for alignment and possible wheel balancing after replacement to optimize tire wear and steering response.
Conclusion: Replacing worn struts is usually worthwhile for safety and performance, though the exact decision depends on your vehicle, budget, and how you use the car.
Costs and what to expect
Costs vary by vehicle, part quality, and local labor rates. The following ranges provide a practical planning guide. Note that choosing cheaper parts can save upfront money but may affect ride quality or longevity, while premium options raise cost but may offer longer life and improved performance.
- Front struts (installed, per strut): roughly $350–$900
- Rear struts or shocks (installed, per strut): roughly $250–$750
- Complete front or rear strut assemblies (with springs and mounts, installed, per strut): roughly $450–$1,200
- All four struts replaced on a typical sedan: roughly $1,600–$4,000, depending on vehicle and parts chosen
- Labor time: typically 1–2 hours per strut on most cars; 4–8 hours for all four
Tip: Always obtain a written estimate that itemizes parts, labor, and alignment if needed. High-end or specialty vehicles may exceed these ranges.
Maintenance tips to extend strut life
Taking care of the suspension can help extend strut life and maintain performance between replacements.
- Have the suspension inspected regularly and after major impacts or pothole encounters
- Get an alignment after replacement to prevent uneven tire wear and steering drift
- Check related components (coil springs, mounts, bushings, tie rods) for wear during a strut service
- Avoid aggressive driving on poor roads when possible to reduce strain on dampers
- Choose quality parts appropriate for your vehicle and driving needs
Conclusion: Regular checks and timely replacements help protect tires, steering, and overall safety.
Bottom line: quick decision guide
- If you notice bouncing, nose-diving, leaking fluids, or steering instability, plan a replacement or a professional inspection.
- If budget allows and you want improved control and ride quality, upgrading to higher-quality or gas-charged struts can be a worthwhile option.
Summary
Worn struts can undermine ride comfort, steering precision, braking stability, and tire life. Replacing them—usually on a per-axle basis and often with alignment—restores safety and performance. Costs vary widely by vehicle and part choice, but planning for parts, labor, and potential alignment helps you budget effectively. Regular maintenance and timely replacement are the best strategies to keep your suspension performing at its best.
What is the average cost to replace struts?
The average cost for a Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $1,057 and $1,268. Labor costs are estimated between $307 and $450 while parts are priced between $750 and $818. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
Is it worth replacing your struts?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs or, better yet, all four, for even, predictable handling and control. After all, all four have been on the vehicle for the same number of miles and worked under the same conditions.
At what mileage should struts be replaced?
50,000 miles
If you want to keep your vehicle operating as well as it was designed to: Then KYB and most industry experts suggest replacement shocks and struts after 50,000 miles (80,000 km). If your vehicle has excessive ride control conditions such as nose-dive or harshness: Right now is the right time.
Can you drive a car with bad struts?
It can be very dangerous to drive on broken suspension components. The vehicle will drive much differently and react unpredictably to uneven surfaces and high-speed maneuvers. Not only that, but bad struts or shocks can significantly increase braking distance.
