How much does it cost to fix the suspension on a Ford Explorer?
Expect a broad price range, typically from about $400 to $2,500, depending on the specific repair and labor. Most common jobs like replacing shocks or struts on a single axle generally run around $800–$1,500, while more extensive work can push the bill higher. Costs vary by model year, trim, location, and whether you replace one component or overhaul the entire suspension.
What affects the price
Several factors influence the final bill for suspension work on a Ford Explorer, from where you live to the parts you choose. Here are the main contributors you’ll want to consider:
- Regional labor rates and shop level of expertise
- Type and number of components replaced (e.g., shocks/struts, control arms, bearings)
- Parts choice: OEM vs aftermarket parts
- Whether diagnostics reveal multiple issues requiring more extensive work
- All-wheel-drive vs two-wheel-drive configurations, which can affect labor time
- Warranty availability and whether the shop offers free inclusions (e.g., alignment after suspension work)
Understanding these factors helps explain why two similar jobs can have noticeably different price quotes. Always seek an itemized estimate and ask about what parts are being used and how labor time is estimated.
Common suspension fixes and typical costs
Below are the most frequent suspension repairs for a Ford Explorer and the price ranges you might expect, including parts and labor. These are general estimates for a typical U.S. repair shop and can vary by year, trim, and location.
- Front struts/shocks replacement (per axle): typically $450–$1,200. Labor is a major component of the price, and replacing both sides or opting for full strut assemblies with springs can raise the cost.
- Front lower control arms (per arm): roughly $300–$900, depending on whether the arm includes ball joints and bushings.
- Ball joints (per joint): about $150–$350, often replaced with control arms when needed.
- Tie rod ends (per end): about $100–$250, plus $50–$150 for a wheel alignment after replacement.
- Wheel bearings (per wheel): typically $250–$500, with higher costs if both wheels require replacement or if hubs are pressed in.
- Sway bar links (per link): $60–$150 for parts, plus $50–$150 for labor per side.
- Rear shocks/struts (per axle): generally $250–$600, depending on design and whether parts are replaced in pairs.
- Coil springs (per spring, or a pair): $100–$400 per spring, plus labor; costs rise if you replace springs while also servicing other front-end components.
Note: These figures reflect typical scenarios and may be higher for newer trims, AWD configurations, or if a technician recommends additional related work (such as an alignment or hardware replacements). Always request a detailed quote that separates parts, labor, and any diagnostic fees.
Additional considerations for budgeting
When planning a budget, consider potential extras such as alignment after suspension work and diagnostic fees. Some shops waive diagnostic charges if you proceed with the repair, while others charge a flat or hourly rate upfront. If you’re repairing multiple worn components in one visit, you may save on labor by having the work completed in a single job.
For context, diagnostic fees commonly range from about $100 to $150 in many markets, though some shops include the diagnostic in the overall repair price if you proceed with the recommended service.
In practice, most Explorer owners see front-end work fall in the $800–$1,500 range per axle for shocks/struts, with higher totals if multiple components are replaced or if you upgrade to higher-end parts. A full or near-full suspension overhaul can approach or exceed $2,000–$4,000 depending on parts and labor choices.
Bottom line: the price tag depends on what’s worn, what you choose to replace, and how your local shop prices labor and parts. Getting 3–4 written estimates and asking about warranty coverage can help you land a fair deal.
Summary: Suspension repair costs for a Ford Explorer vary widely but generally fall into a broad spectrum—from a few hundred dollars for simple wear-and-tear parts to several thousand for comprehensive front-and-rear work. Plan for an upfront diagnostic, request itemized quotes, and consider the balance between OEM and aftermarket parts. With careful shopping, you can restore ride quality while avoiding sticker shock.
