How much does it cost to replace struts on a Chevy Equinox?
The average cost to replace the struts on a Chevy Equinox ranges from $400 to $800 per axle, including parts and labor. This can vary depending on factors such as the specific model year, location, and mechanic labor rates.
What are Struts and Why Do They Need Replacing?
Struts are a critical component of a vehicle's suspension system, responsible for absorbing shocks and providing a smooth ride. They are typically made up of a coil spring and a shock absorber, and are located at each wheel. Over time, the struts can wear down, leading to issues like a bouncy ride, uneven tire wear, and poor handling.
Replacing the struts on a Chevy Equinox is generally recommended every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, or when they show signs of wear and tear, such as leaking fluid or excessive play in the suspension.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Strut Replacement
The total cost of replacing the struts on a Chevy Equinox can vary based on several factors:
- Parts Cost: The cost of the strut assembly itself, which can range from $150 to $300 per strut, depending on the brand and quality.
- Labor Cost: The labor required to remove the old struts and install the new ones, which can take 1-2 hours per strut and cost $50 to $150 per hour, depending on the mechanic's hourly rate.
- Location: Repair costs can be higher in urban areas with higher labor rates compared to rural or suburban areas.
- Mechanic Experience: Experienced mechanics may charge more for their expertise, but may also be able to complete the job more efficiently.
It's important to get quotes from multiple mechanics or repair shops to find the best balance of quality and cost for your Chevy Equinox strut replacement.
Do you need an alignment after replacing struts?
Monroe ® recommends performing an alignment anytime struts or other steering and suspension components are replaced. Failure to make sure the vehicle's alignment is within factory specifications can lead to problems like premature tire wear and other customer comebacks.
What noise does a bad strut make?
Struts dampen the oscillations from the vehicle's suspension springs and act as a structural part of the suspension. A bad strut typically makes a hollow or banging sound.
Is it OK to drive with bad struts?
Once the wear starts hampering your vehicle's performance, your service provider will likely recommend replacing the worn part to restore your car's ride and handling. If you choose to wait to inspect worn shocks and struts, you jeopardize your ability to stop, steer and maintain stability.
Does a Chevy Equinox have shocks or struts?
At the heart of the suspension is the strut assembly, a mechanism that combines a shock absorber and a coil spring into one unit to absorb bumps in the road and to keep the tires in contact with the ground at all times.
Can you still drive with bad struts?
Once the wear starts hampering your vehicle's performance, your service provider will likely recommend replacing the worn part to restore your car's ride and handling. If you choose to wait to inspect worn shocks and struts, you jeopardize your ability to stop, steer and maintain stability.
Is it worth it to fix struts?
Replace your struts, they're critical to the safe handling of your car. If they fail, you'll be bouncing up and down at every bump and when you try an emergency maneuver you'll over correct and the car will spring back, potentially starting a death wobble and causing you to crash.
What are the symptoms of a bad strut?
Read on to learn the signs of worn shocks & struts:
- Nose dive when braking.
- Bouncy ride.
- Vehicle rolls or sways when cornering.
- Uneven tire wear.
- Rear squat during acceleration.
- Vibration in steering wheel.
- Unusual noises.
- Leaking fluid on exterior of shocks/struts.
How long do struts last on Chevy Equinox?
Generally, shocks and struts wear out every 50,000-100,000 miles. If you're a more aggressive driver and/or frequently drive on rough roads, they will wear out faster.
How much does it cost to replace all 4 struts?
How Much Would It Cost to Replace Your Shocks and Struts? A typical shock and strut replacement can set you back anywhere between $450 and $1,100. However, keep in mind that this can vary depending on the type of vehicle suspension you have and your location.
Can I drive with bad struts?
Struts on the front-end of your vehicle are also crucial for steering and alignment. Driving with a broken strut will be extremely uncomfortable for you and your passengers, and is unsafe in an emergency. It can also damage other components in your car.
