How much does it cost to replace struts on a Chevy Equinox?
Replacing the struts on your Chevy Equinox is an essential maintenance task that ensures a smooth and safe ride. Struts are a critical component of your vehicle's suspension system, and over time, they can wear out, leading to reduced handling performance and comfort. In this article, we’ll break down the costs associated with replacing struts on a Chevy Equinox and provide insights into what factors influence the price.
What Are Struts and Why Do They Need Replacement?
Struts are a structural part of your vehicle's suspension system that combine a shock absorber with a coil spring. They help absorb road impacts, maintain tire alignment, and support the weight of your vehicle. Over time, struts can wear out due to normal use, especially if you frequently drive on rough roads. Signs that your struts may need replacement include:
- Excessive bouncing or swaying while driving.
- Uneven tire wear.
- Difficulty steering or reduced handling performance.
- Visible fluid leaks from the struts.
Cost Breakdown for Replacing Struts on a Chevy Equinox
The cost of replacing struts on a Chevy Equinox can vary depending on several factors, including the model year, the type of struts used, and labor costs in your area. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect:
- Parts: The cost of the struts themselves typically ranges from $150 to $300 per strut. High-performance or premium struts may cost more.
- Labor: Labor costs for replacing struts can range from $150 to $300 per axle, depending on the complexity of the job and the hourly rate of the mechanic.
- Total Cost: On average, replacing both front struts on a Chevy Equinox can cost between $400 and $800. If you’re replacing all four struts (front and rear), the cost may range from $800 to $1,600.
Factors That Influence the Cost
Several factors can affect the overall cost of replacing struts on your Chevy Equinox:
- Model Year: Newer models may require more expensive parts or additional labor due to design changes.
- Type of Struts: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) struts are typically more expensive than aftermarket options, but they may offer better compatibility and performance.
- Labor Rates: Labor costs vary by location and the expertise of the mechanic. Urban areas often have higher labor rates than rural areas.
- Additional Repairs: If other suspension components, such as control arms or sway bar links, are worn out, they may need to be replaced at the same time, increasing the overall cost.
Is It Worth Replacing Struts on Your Own?
While replacing struts yourself can save on labor costs, it’s a complex and labor-intensive job that requires specialized tools and knowledge. If you’re not experienced with suspension repairs, it’s best to leave this task to a professional mechanic to ensure safety and proper installation.
Conclusion
Replacing the struts on your Chevy Equinox is an investment in your vehicle’s safety and performance. While the cost can vary, budgeting between $400 and $800 for front strut replacement is a good starting point. For accurate pricing and professional service, consider reaching out to a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos, where experienced mechanics can provide reliable and affordable solutions tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
