How much does 4 shocks cost?

Four shock absorbers typically cost between about $100 and $1,000 in parts, with installation bringing the total to roughly $300 to $1,200, depending on brand, vehicle type, and labor rates.

What affects the price of four shocks?

Prices hinge on the shock type (gas-charged, hydraulic, monotube vs twin-tube), the brand, whether you buy OEM-equivalent replacements or aftermarket options, the vehicle’s make and model (some cars need special mounting or longer travel shocks), and regional labor costs.

Price ranges by shock type

Prices vary by what you buy. The ranges below reflect typical market segments as of 2025.

• Budget/value shocks: about $15–$60 per shock; four shocks total roughly $60–$240.


• Mid-range shocks: about $60–$120 per shock; four shocks total roughly $240–$480.


• Premium/OEM or heavy-duty shocks: about $120–$260 per shock; four shocks total roughly $480–$1,040.

These ranges illustrate how price scales with quality and vehicle requirements.

Installation and other costs

Labor and related services can significantly affect the final bill. Budgeting for installation and alignment ensures you cover essential services when replacing all four shocks.

• Labor costs: typically $100–$300 for the job, depending on shop rates and vehicle complexity.


• Wheel alignment: usually $75–$150 if required after replacement.


• Additional parts and services: mounting hardware, fluids, and disposal fees may add $20–$100.

In practice, if you need four shocks installed with an alignment, expect the total to rise into the $300–$1,200 range depending on locale and vehicle.

Summary

Four shocks can be a discretionary maintenance expense with a broad price range. Budget-conscious buyers can keep parts costs low by selecting basic shocks, while those seeking optimal ride and durability may opt for premium OEM or high-performance units. Always factor in installation and alignment when budgeting, and check whether your vehicle needs special mounting hardware. For a precise quote, consult a local shop with your vehicle’s year, make, and model.

How much does it cost to buy shocks?

An individual shock and strut assembly can cost anywhere between $150 and $900. Because it's recommended to replace the shocks and struts in pairs, this cost can easily multiply.

How much to replace 4 shocks?

Replacing all four shocks typically costs between $1,000 and $5,000, with a more common range for a standard vehicle being $1,000 to $2,000. The final price depends on factors like your vehicle's make and model, the type of shocks you choose (economy, OEM, or performance), and whether related parts or a wheel alignment are also needed. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: Expect to pay anywhere from $30 to over $300 per shock, depending on the brand and type. For a set of four, this could range from roughly $120 to over $1,200. 
• Labor: Labor for all four shocks generally ranges from $300 to $800, as it can take three to five hours. 
• Additional costs:
  • Wheel alignment: A wheel alignment is strongly recommended after replacing shocks and typically costs $80 to $200. 
  • Other parts: Worn-out mounts, boots, or bump stops may need replacement, which will add to the total cost. 

How to get an accurate quote

• Contact local mechanics or dealerships to get a detailed estimate for your specific vehicle.
• Ask for a breakdown of parts and labor costs.
• Inquire about the recommended replacement shocks and whether an alignment is included in the price.

Are shocks expensive to fix?

Replacing shocks can range from moderately expensive to very expensive, with costs typically falling between $400 and $1,500 for all four on a standard vehicle, but often exceeding $1,000 or more for luxury or performance cars. The final price depends on the vehicle type, the cost of parts, and labor rates, with front struts often being more expensive and labor-intensive to replace than rear shocks. 
You can watch this video to learn about the costs associated with replacing shocks and struts: 59sAuto V Fix YouTube · Sep 5, 2024
Factors influencing the cost

• Vehicle type: Luxury or performance vehicles have significantly higher part and labor costs than standard cars. 
• Parts: While some simple shocks are inexpensive, many modern cars use struts, which are more complex and costly because they are part of the vehicle's structural and steering system. 
• Labor: Front shock/strut replacement typically requires more labor than rear shock replacement, which can increase the total cost. Labor rates also vary depending on the shop, with dealerships often charging more than independent mechanics. 
• DIY vs. professional installation: You can save money on labor by doing it yourself if you have the right tools and experience, but incorrectly handling suspension components like springs can be dangerous. 

Average replacement costs

• Basic replacement: A standard car might cost between $400 and $1,500 for a set of four shocks, including parts and labor. 
• Premium replacement: For a small to mid-sized car, a premium replacement can cost $1,600 to $3,000 or more. 
• Per-corner cost: The cost per corner can range from around $500 for a modest vehicle to over $1,000 for a single corner on a high-end vehicle, especially for front struts. 

Can you drive a car with bad shocks?

You can technically drive a car with bad shocks, but it is dangerous and not recommended, especially for anything more than a short, low-speed trip directly to a mechanic. Driving with bad shocks compromises vehicle control, increases braking distances, and can cause more expensive damage to other components like tires and suspension parts over time. 
This video explains the signs of bad shocks and their effects on driving: 54sMechanic BaseYouTube · Nov 9, 2024
Dangers of driving with bad shocks

• Reduced control: The vehicle may bounce uncontrollably, sway during turns, or feel unstable, making it harder to steer. 
• Increased stopping distance: The car won't absorb the weight shift properly when you brake, causing a "nose dive" and increasing the distance needed to stop. 
• Poor traction: Shocks help keep the tires in contact with the road. Bad shocks reduce traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions, increasing the risk of skidding. 
• Damage to other components: Bad shocks put extra strain on other parts of the suspension, steering, and tires, leading to faster wear and more expensive repairs down the line. 
• Malfunctioning ABS: The anti-lock braking system (ABS) may not work correctly or effectively if the suspension is worn out. 

If you must drive

• Drive at very low speeds. 
• Avoid highways, sudden turns, and abrupt stops. 
• Drive directly to a mechanic for repairs. If a shock is completely broken or leaking, it's safer to have the car towed. 

This video demonstrates what bad shocks can sound like: 24sPhillips VisionYouTube · Oct 8, 2024