How much do 4 shocks cost?
Four shocks replacement typically costs between roughly $160 and $1,200 for the parts alone, with installed totals often ranging from about $360 to $1,700 depending on vehicle, brand, and labor. These figures reflect common aftermarket options available in 2024–2025 and can vary based on your car and location.
Pricing by quality and brand
Prices vary widely by the quality, design, and brand of the shocks. The following brackets provide a general sense of what you’ll pay per unit and for a full four-shock set.
- Budget/OE-style: about $40–$90 per shock (four: $160–$360).
- Mid-range gas-charged or upgraded aftermarket: about $90–$160 per shock (four: $360–$640).
- Premium/high-performance: about $160–$300 per shock (four: $640–$1,200).
- Heavy-duty/off-road or specialized (e.g., monotube, reservoir, or electronic): about $250–$550 per shock (four: $1,000–$2,200).
In short, your choice of shock type and brand largely dictates the price for four units. Installation and other costs add to the total.
Installation and labor
Most buyers should expect installation to add time and cost, though some shops offer a bundled price for replacing all four at once. Labor rates vary by region and shop, but typical ranges are:
- Installation labor for four shocks: roughly $200–$600 total depending on vehicle and local rates.
- Additional costs may include alignment, mounting hardware, and disposal fees: typically $50–$150 if needed.
Shop quotes often include or exclude hardware and alignment, so always request a written breakdown to understand the final price.
What affects the total cost
Several factors determine the final outlay beyond the sticker price of the shocks themselves. Here are the most influential ones.
- Vehicle type and shock configuration (front vs rear, struts vs shocks) and whether you need a complete four-wheel replacement.
- Shock design and features (gas-charged vs twin-tube, monotube, adjustability, or electronic damping).
- Brand warranties and return policies, which can affect perceived value.
- Regional labor market and whether the work is performed at a dealership, independent shop, or big-box retailer.
Understanding these factors helps you compare quotes accurately and avoid surprise charges.
Tips for saving money
Smart planning can reduce cost without compromising ride quality or safety. Consider these approaches when budgeting for four shocks.
- Compare per-shock price across brands and verify what is included (hardware, mounts, torque specifications, and warranty).
- Ask for a bundled package price for four shocks, including installation, and whether alignment is included or offered at a discount.
- Look for promotions, rebates, or price-matching offers from retailers or service centers.
Taking a few minutes to compare, and confirming exactly what’s included, can help you get a balanced setup at a fair price.
Summary
Replacing all four shocks represents a broad price range driven by brand, design, and installation costs. For most daily drivers, expect about $360–$1,000 for parts and around $200–$600 more for labor, resulting in a total of roughly $560–$1,600. For premium or specialized setups, totals can climb to $1,500–$2,500 or more once installation, hardware, and possible alignment are included. Always obtain a written estimate, compare brands, and consider whether you’re replacing all four at once for optimal handling and balance.
