Can I replace struts myself?

Yes, you can replace struts yourself on many vehicles, but it’s a potentially hazardous job that demands the right tools, careful procedure, and a wheel alignment afterward.

Replacing struts is a common DIY project for hobbyists who work methodically and follow the vehicle’s service manual. The job varies by car—front MacPherson struts differ from rear struts, and some models use assemblies that include coil springs, mounts, and bearings. This guide outlines what struts do, when a DIY approach is feasible, the tools and steps involved, safety considerations, and when it’s smarter to rely on a professional repair shop.

What struts do and why replacement matters

Struts (often part of a MacPherson front suspension) serve as both a shock absorber and a structural support for the vehicle’s suspension. They dampen road vibrations and help maintain tire contact with the pavement. Over time, struts wear out, losing dampening efficiency and causing symptoms such as excessive bounce, nose-diving under braking, uneven tire wear, or leaking fluid. If a strut fails, a replacement is generally necessary to restore ride quality and safety.

DIY feasibility and factors

Whether you should attempt a strut replacement yourself depends on your mechanical skill, tools, and the specific vehicle. Front struts on many cars are within reach for experienced DIYers, especially if you’re replacing a complete strut assembly that includes the coil spring and mount. However, the job becomes more complex with coil-spring compression, rusted hardware, ABS or other sensor connections, or vehicles with parts that are awkward to access. If you’re not confident with suspension work, or if your car’s design makes the job unusually difficult, professional service is a safer option.

Tools, preparations and planning

Before you gather tools, consider that the following list covers common needs for a strut replacement. Always check your vehicle’s manual for model-specific requirements and torque specs.

Essential tools and supplies you’ll likely need for a typical strut replacement include:

• Floor jack and jack stands; wheel chocks


• Lug wrench or impact wrench


• Socket set with metric sockets and ratchet; breaker bar


• Spring compressor (for coil-spring-based assemblies)


• Torque wrench and standard wrenches


• Pry bar and lightweight hammer


• New strut assembly or replacement dampers with coil spring (and new mounts/bearings if applicable)


• New nuts, bolts, and hardware as recommended by the manufacturer


• Anti-seize compound and thread locker; penetrating oil for stubborn fasteners


• Protective eyewear, gloves, and a clean workspace


• Replacement ABS/Brake line or sensor adapters if required; service manual for wiring connections

Having a shop manual for your exact make, model, and year will help you confirm the correct parts and procedures, including whether you can reuse top mounts or must replace them.

Process overview: high-level steps to replace a strut

Below is a high-level outline of the typical workflow. Procedures vary by vehicle, so always follow the official service manual for your car.

1. Prepare the workspace and disconnect the battery if you’ll be handling sensors or electrical connections near the strut.


2. Loosen wheel lug nuts, lift the vehicle, and secure it on jack stands; remove the wheel.


3. Access the strut assembly by removing components that obstruct access (brake line clips, sway bar link, brake caliper if necessary, and any underbody shields).


4. Support the suspension, unbolt the strut from the steering knuckle and from the strut tower, then carefully remove the old strut.


5. If using a separate coil spring, carefully compress the spring with a spring compressor and detach it from the old strut; transfer to the new strut or install the new strut assembly.


6. Install the new strut assembly, torque fasteners to the manufacturer’s specifications, and reconnect any sensors or lines.


7. Reassemble components, reinstall the wheel, and lower the vehicle.


8. Get a professional alignment after the replacement to ensure proper tire wear and handling.

Replacing a strut can take several hours, especially if you’re learning the process or dealing with difficult fasteners or rust. If you’re using a complete strut assembly, the job can be quicker; if you’re dealing with springs separately, it will take longer and require more safety precautions.

Safety, risks and when to seek professional help

Crucial safety considerations include the risk of injury when working under a raised vehicle, as well as the hazards of compressing coil springs and handling high-pressure gas inside some struts. If you encounter any of the following, consider professional service instead:

• Rusty or seized fasteners that won’t budge using typical tools


• Struts with significant oil leakage or visible damage to the strut tower


• Safety sensor wiring or ABS lines that are difficult to access or reconnect


• Vehicles with unconventional suspension setups or electronic control systems


• Inability to perform a proper wheel alignment after replacement

When to call a professional: if you’re unsure about bolt torque specs, alignment requirements, or if you lack the proper spring compressor and safety gear. A qualified technician can complete the job safely and ensure the suspension geometry is correct for optimal handling and tire life.

Replacing in pairs and alignment considerations

In many cases, mechanics recommend replacing struts in pairs on the same axle to preserve balanced handling and damping characteristics. After any strut replacement, a wheel alignment is essential to restore proper steering geometry and tire wear patterns. If you don’t have access to alignment equipment, arrange it with a shop after the work is done.

Costs and time considerations

The cost of parts varies by vehicle and quality, but you can expect roughly a range from economy to premium strut assemblies. Labor costs depend on location, vehicle design, and whether you’re replacing a single strut or a full pair on one axle. DIY replacement can save on labor but requires investment in tools and time. Always compare quotes from shops and weigh the total cost against the value of your safety and ride quality.

Summary

Replacing struts yourself is feasible for many car owners who have the right tools, manual guidance, and the ability to work safely. The job involves lifting the car, removing and/or compressing springs, and reinstalling dampers with attention to torque specs and alignment. If you’re uncertain about any step, or if your vehicle has complicated suspension hardware or limited access, hiring a professional is the prudent choice. Proper replacement and a subsequent alignment will restore ride quality, handling, and tire life, contributing to overall road safety.

Do I need a special tool to replace struts?

And a magnetic tray. You're also going to need your four-way. These are the tools required in order to remove and replace a front-wheel drive front strut.

What is the average cost to replace struts?

The average cost to replace struts ranges from $400 to $1,000 per axle, with the total cost including parts and labor. For a full set of four, the cost can be between $800 and $1,500. Factors like vehicle type, whether you use OEM or aftermarket parts, and labor rates in your area can cause the price to fluctuate significantly. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: Strut assemblies typically cost $150 to $350 each. You can save money by using aftermarket parts, while OEM parts are generally more expensive. 
• Labor: The cost for labor is often between $150 and $300 per axle. 
• Additional costs: A wheel alignment after replacement can add another $100 to $150 to the total cost. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the cost of replacing a car strut: 56sStudent LessonYouTube · Jun 7, 2024
How to save money

• Choose aftermarket parts: Opting for high-quality aftermarket struts can be significantly cheaper than OEM parts. 
• Shop around: Compare prices between independent mechanics and dealerships, as dealerships are often more expensive. 
• Consider DIY: If you are mechanically inclined, you can save on labor costs by replacing the struts yourself, though this may require special tools and can be unsafe to attempt without help. 

This video explains how to find the cheapest place to get your shocks and struts replaced: 59sAuto V Fix YouTube · Sep 30, 2022
Signs you may need new struts

• Excessive bouncing or swaying while driving
• A "floaty" feeling from the vehicle
• The front end dipping excessively when braking
• Visible leaks or damage to the struts
• Increased stopping distance
• Unusual noises from the suspension 

This video discusses when you should replace your shocks and struts: 59sRoyalty Auto ServiceYouTube · Jul 18, 2025

Do I need to do an alignment after replacing struts?

Yes, you almost always need an alignment after replacing front struts because the process can change the suspension geometry, affecting the camber and toe angles. Even if the struts don't have adjustment slots, the new components can alter the ride height and, therefore, the wheel alignment. 
This video explains how replacing struts can affect your car's alignment: 51sEricTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 15, 2016
Why an alignment is necessary

• Alters suspension geometry: Replacing struts changes how the suspension is positioned, which can affect the wheel angles that determine alignment. 
• Changes ride height: New springs in the strut assembly can change the vehicle's ride height, which will throw off the alignment. 
• Impacts handling and safety: An alignment ensures the tires are positioned correctly, which is crucial for proper steering, braking, and preventing uneven tire wear. 
• Ensures performance: A proper alignment allows the new components to perform as they were designed, maximizing the benefits of the new struts. 

This video explains why you need an alignment after replacing suspension components like struts: 52sOne Trick TechnicianYouTube · May 3, 2025
When alignment is critical

• Front struts: Replacing front struts almost always requires an alignment check because they are structural components that significantly affect alignment angles. 
• Aftermarket parts: It is especially important to get an alignment after installing aftermarket suspension parts, as they can have different dimensions or weights than the original parts. 
• After any suspension work: It is best practice to get an alignment any time you replace suspension components, including control arms, ball joints, or tie rods, as it can have a ripple effect on the entire alignment. 

This video explains why you need an alignment after installing aftermarket suspension parts: 55sRacelandYouTube · Jul 21, 2023
How to know if you need an alignment

• Consult the vehicle's service manual: Some vehicle designs might have different requirements, so it's always a good idea to check the manufacturer's recommendations. 
• Look for signs of misalignment: Even if an alignment was performed, watch for signs such as a car pulling to one side, the steering wheel not being straight, or uneven tire wear. 

How long does it take to replace struts?

Replacing struts typically takes one to two hours per pair of struts for experienced mechanics. For DIYers with less experience, it may take two to three hours per strut. The total time depends on the mechanic's skill level, the vehicle's make and model, and whether the parts are pre-assembled (quick struts) or require separate assembly. 
Factors that influence strut replacement time

• Experience level: An experienced professional can replace a set of struts in about one to two hours total. A first-time DIYer could take two to three hours per strut. 
• Pre-assembled "quick struts": These are faster to install because the strut, spring, and mount are already assembled. 
• Vehicle make and model: High-performance or luxury vehicles may require more time due to their specific designs. 
• Number of struts: It's recommended to replace both struts on an axle at the same time for consistent performance. 

Important considerations

• Safety: Worn struts can significantly affect your vehicle's handling and braking distance, making it dangerous to drive. 
• Alignment: After replacement, a wheel alignment is necessary to prevent uneven tire wear and ensure proper handling. 
• Professional help: If you are not confident in your mechanical abilities, it is best to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.