How much are suspension joints for Honda Accord?
Prices for Honda Accord suspension joints vary widely by component, year, and market. In the United States, expect roughly $15 to $350 per part for the actual joint or arm, with labor typically adding another $80 to $150 per hour depending on the shop and region. OEM parts tend to be pricier than aftermarket equivalents.
Understanding the question requires breaking down which components count as suspension joints and how pricing differs between aftermarket and factory parts, as well as how labor costs factor in. This article covers the main joints you’ll encounter on common Accord models, current price ranges, and practical tips for shopping and budgeting a repair.
Common suspension joints and price ranges
Before listing the parts, here is a baseline of what you’ll pay for new components in the U.S. market, noting that exact prices fluctuate by year, trim, and retailer.
- Ball joints (individual): Aftermarket typically $25–$60 per joint; Honda OEM usually $60–$120 per joint.
- Tie rod ends: Aftermarket $15–$40; Honda OEM $40–$90.
- Control arm assemblies (with joints): Aftermarket $120–$350 per arm; Honda OEM typically $170–$500 per arm depending on year and part design.
- Control arm bushings (per bushing): $15–$60 per bushing; replacing bushings often costs more if it requires separate labor or an arm replacement.
- Sway bar links: Aftermarket $10–$40; Honda OEM $25–$60.
Prices above refer to new parts sold individually. If you buy complete assemblies or kits, per-arm costs can be higher but may save labor time. Always verify compatibility with your exact model year and trim when shopping.
Labor costs and installation notes
Labor costs vary by region and shop, but these ranges reflect typical U.S. rates and common job durations for suspension joint replacements.
- Ball joint replacement (on a control arm with a press-in joint): about 1–2 hours at a shop rate of roughly $80–$150 per hour.
- Tie rod end replacement: approximately 0.5–1 hour; same hourly rate.
- Control arm replacement (arm plus joint): around 1.5–3 hours; sometimes longer if the job requires additional disassembly or rust mitigation.
- Sway bar link replacement: about 0.5–1 hour; similar labor rate.
- Wheel alignment: typically 0.5–1 hour after suspension work, with alignment fees often ranging $70–$120 depending on location and equipment.
Note that some ball joints require press tooling or an alignment check after installation. Labor estimates can rise if extra steps are needed to free seized fasteners or replace accompanying components.
Shopping tips and where to buy
Smart shopping can save money without sacrificing safety. Here are practical tips for securing the best value on Accord suspension joints.
: OEM Honda Genuine parts are reliable but pricier; reputable aftermarket brands (e.g., MOOG, TRW, AC Delco) often offer solid performance at a lower price. : If you’re replacing more than one joint, consider asking a shop for a bundled price or replacing complete arms to cut labor time. : Look for parts with at least a 1-year warranty; some brands offer longer coverage for genuine parts or premium aftermarket options. : An alignment is typically needed after suspension work and can add to the total cost. : Ask for charged hours, confirm whether the price includes labor for both sides, and request a written estimate before work begins.
In practice, a typical front suspension joint replacement on a Honda Accord—parts plus labor plus alignment—often lands in the $300 to $800 range per joint, depending on the specific part, whether you replace a single joint or a full arm, and regional labor rates. Always get a written estimate and, if possible, a ballpark for both sides to save on labor costs.
Summary
For Honda Accord owners, suspension joints come in a broad price spectrum driven by part type, whether you use OEM or aftermarket components, and the labor rates at your chosen shop. Ball joints and control arms tend to be the most expensive, while sway bar links and tie rod ends are typically the most affordable. Plan for installation costs and potential alignment fees, and shop around to compare OEM vs aftermarket options and bundled replacement packages. With careful shopping and a clear plan, you can budget effectively for a safe and reliable ride.
