How much does it cost to replace all 4 shocks?
In most passenger cars, replacing all four shocks costs about $400 to $1,000, including parts and labor. Premium parts, luxury SUVs, or difficult installations can push the total above $1,500.
What affects the total cost
The total price for replacing all four shocks depends on several factors, including the type of suspension components you choose, the labor required, and any additional services (like wheel alignment) that may be needed.
Below are the major variables you should consider before getting quotes.
- Parts cost and brand tier: economy/basic aftermarket, mid-range, or premium/high-performance shocks.
- Labor time and rate: how long the job takes and the hourly charge from the shop.
- Alignment and related services: whether a wheel alignment is required after replacement.
- Vehicle type and access: sedans, SUVs, and trucks vary in complexity and weight, which can affect both parts price and labor time.
- Region and shop type: regional price differences and whether you go through a dealership, independent shop, or chain shop.
In summary, the total cost is a function of parts choice, labor, and any extra services, all of which can swing the final price by hundreds of dollars.
Parts options and price ranges
The following list groups typical per-shock prices by brand tier. Think of these as a guide to understand how the parts portion of the bill might look.
- Economy/basic aftermarket: about $40–$100 per shock
- Mid-range: about $100–$180 per shock
- Premium/high-performance: about $200–$350+ per shock
Concluding note: four shocks at these per-shock prices translate into roughly $160–$400 for economy parts, $400–$720 for mid-range parts, or $800–$1,400+ for premium parts before labor and any extras.
Labor costs and related services
Labor typically accounts for a large portion of the total bill. Here are the common ranges you’ll see when replacing all four shocks.
- Labor time: roughly 3–6 hours for a standard sedan, more for SUVs or vehicles with harder access
- Labor rate: about $75–$150 per hour, depending on location and shop
- Alignment: $75–$150 if an alignment is required after installation
- Additional parts/services: mounts, bushings, or boots may add $20–$100+ if replacement is needed
Bottom line: for many vehicles, total labor and services range from roughly $300 to $800, with higher-end regions or complex vehicles moving toward or beyond $1,000.
Considerations by vehicle type and locale
Vehicle category and regional pricing can shift the overall cost. Luxury SUVs, heavy pickups, or vehicles with limited access to the shock absorbers may require more expensive parts and longer labor times. Urban areas tend to have higher labor rates than rural regions, and dealership services can be pricier than independent shops.
Common scenarios and what to expect
- Sedans and small cars: typically on the lower end of the price spectrum, with solid savings if you choose mid-range parts and a competent independent shop.
- SUVs and trucks: higher labor and sometimes more expensive parts; expect the upper mid-range price or higher.
- High-performance or luxury models: Premium parts and specialized labor can push total costs well into the higher end of the range.
Estimating costs for your vehicle
To get an accurate quote, identify your vehicle's make, model, year, and whether it uses shocks or struts at each corner. Ask shops for a written estimate that itemizes parts and labor, and confirm whether an alignment is included or charged separately.
Summary
Replacing all four shocks is a mid-range automotive repair in terms of cost, with parts typically constituting a substantial portion of the bill. Expect a combined parts and labor range from roughly $400 to $1,000 for most common cars, with higher totals possible for premium parts, SUVs, or vehicles requiring more complex labor. Always obtain multiple quotes, verify whether an alignment is included, and consider the long-term benefits of quality shocks for ride comfort and handling.
