How much does it cost to replace suspension on a truck?
Expect to spend roughly $300 to $900 per axle for replacing shocks or struts, while more extensive suspension work can run from about $1,000 to $3,000 per axle. A full vehicle overhaul can push total costs higher, often $2,000 to $6,000 or more depending on the model and parts chosen.
In this report, we break down the factors that influence price, typical cost ranges by scope, and practical tips for budgeting and obtaining quotes. Costs vary by truck model, the parts selected (OEM versus aftermarket), local labor rates, and the complexity of the job, but the ranges below cover common scenarios for light- and heavy-duty pickups in 2025.
What drives the price
Prices hinge on the scope of work and the parts involved. Below are the main categories that commonly determine what you’ll pay.
- Type of suspension work: replacing only shocks/struts vs. replacing springs, control arms, and bushings.
- Front vs. rear suspension: front-end work is often more complex and expensive on trucks with independent suspension.
- Parts quality and brand: OEM, aftermarket, or performance-grade components affect price and warranty.
- Labor rate and shop location: urban areas and dealers typically charge more per hour than rural shops.
- Alignment and related services: a wheel alignment is usually included or added after suspension work.
- Additional components: sway bar links, ball joints, tie rods, and dampers can add to the bill.
Across these variables, the key takeaway is that the more components replaced and the higher the part quality, the higher the total bill tends to be.
Shocks vs. struts
Shocks and struts serve different roles in a vehicle’s suspension. Replacing them is typically the most common and least expensive form of suspension work, especially if you’re tackling one axle at a time.
Typical price ranges by scope
Before listing the ranges, this guide notes that prices reflect common configurations for pickups and light trucks. The exact numbers will vary with model, part choices, and local labor rates.
- Shocks or struts replacement (per axle):
- Typical parts and labor: $300–$900
- Leaf-spring or coil-spring replacement (rear or front, per axle):
- Parts plus labor: $450–$1,800
- Front-end suspension overhaul (including shocks/struts, control arms, bushings, tie rods):
- Per axle: $800–$2,800
- Full vehicle suspension overhaul (both axles, multiple components):
- Ranges commonly $1,800–$5,000 or more, depending on parts and labor
- Air suspension components (if applicable):
- Per corner replacement: $1,000–$3,500
When you replace multiple parts or convert from a standard setup to an upgraded system, expect the total to rise accordingly. Always request a detailed line-item estimate to understand what you’re paying for.
Notes on regional variation
Prices tend to be higher in major metropolitan areas or at dealership service centers and lower at independent shops in rural regions. If you’re shopping around, ask for quotes that include labor, parts, and alignment, and compare similar part quality levels to make a fair assessment.
Cost considerations and tips
Budgeting smartly means looking beyond the sticker price and considering what will keep your truck safe and reliable on the road.
- Get multiple written quotes from independent shops and dealership service departments to compare parts and labor.
- Choose parts wisely: OEM parts typically cost more but may offer better compatibility and warranty; aftermarket parts can save money but vary in quality.
- Ask whether the quote includes alignment, fluids, and any required inspections; some shops bill alignment separately.
- Check warranties on both parts and labor; a longer warranty can save money if a component fails again soon.
- Plan for potential ancillary costs, such as replacing worn related components (ball joints, tie rod ends) discovered during the job.
- Consider scheduling adjustments: some shops offer package deals for suspension work that covers multiple components.
By understanding scope, shopping around, and confirming inclusions, you can avoid sticker shock and ensure the replacement delivers the performance and safety you expect from your truck.
Summary
Replacing a truck’s suspension can range from a few hundred dollars per axle for basic shock/strut replacements to several thousand dollars per axle for full front-end or complete vehicle overhauls. The final price hinges on the parts chosen, the extent of work, the vehicle model, and local labor rates. Prospective buyers should obtain detailed, written estimates, compare OEM versus aftermarket options, and factor in alignment and potential extra components to budget accurately.
Is it worth it to replace suspension?
Replacing the suspension improves overall vehicle performance. It allows for better control, increased stability, and more responsive handling, which is essential for both everyday driving and long-distance travel.
How to tell if truck suspension is bad?
Signs of a bad truck suspension include a rough or bumpy ride, excessive bouncing, and noises like clunking or knocking. Other indicators are uneven tire wear, the truck pulling to one side, dipping excessively when braking, and difficulty steering. A simple bounce test can help determine if your shocks are worn out.
This video demonstrates how to perform a bounce test and check your suspension for play: 59sBlown YouTube · Aug 3, 2023
Performance and ride quality
- Excessive bouncing: Your truck continues to bounce for a long time after hitting a bump or pothole.
- Rough ride: You feel every bump and imperfection in the road, even on seemingly smooth surfaces.
- Pulling to one side: The truck drifts or pulls to the left or right when you are driving straight.
- Leaning or swaying: The truck leans excessively or sways around corners.
- Nosediving or squatting: The front of the vehicle dives down sharply when you brake, or the rear squats excessively when you accelerate.
- Difficulty steering: Steering feels loose, or the vehicle is hard to control.
Visual and auditory cues
- Uneven tire wear: The tires have bald spots or wear out more on one side than the other.
- Unusual noises: You hear clunking, knocking, creaking, or squeaking sounds, especially when going over bumps or making turns.
- Fluid leakage: There is oily or greasy fluid around your shocks or struts.
- Vehicle sitting low: The truck sags or sits lower on one side than the other when parked.
How to perform a bounce test
- Go to one corner of the truck and push down firmly on the fender.
- Release the pressure quickly.
- Watch how the vehicle settles. If it bounces more than two or three times, the suspension may need attention.
Can you still drive with bad suspension?
No, you should not drive a car with bad suspension, as it is unsafe and can cause further damage. Driving with a bad suspension compromises control, increases stopping distance, and can lead to a loss of control, especially in emergencies. It can also cause further damage to other components, such as the frame, tires, and steering.
Safety concerns and risks
This video explains how bad suspension can affect vehicle control: 58sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Nov 1, 2023
- Loss of control: A compromised suspension makes the vehicle unstable, and it will react unpredictably to road surfaces and maneuvers. This is especially dangerous at high speeds or during hard braking.
- Increased stopping distance: Bad shocks and struts can increase your braking distance by up to 20 percent, reducing your ability to stop in time.
- Further damage: Driving with a bad suspension puts extra stress on other parts, potentially causing more expensive damage to the frame, steering, and other suspension components.
- Tire damage: Uneven wear is likely to occur, which can lead to premature tire failure.
When to stop driving immediately
- Broken components: If you have a broken coil spring or ball joint, you should not drive the vehicle at all, except to move it to a safer location out of traffic.
- Visible fluid leaks: Leaking from shocks or struts is a clear sign of a problem that requires immediate attention.
- Sudden loss of control: If you experience a sudden drop or sag on one side of the vehicle, it is an emergency that requires you to stop driving immediately.
- Loud noises: A loud clunking, knocking, or popping from the suspension area should not be ignored.
How to diagnose suspension issues
- Unusual sounds: Listen for clunking, knocking, or popping, especially when going over bumps or turning.
- Poor handling: Noticeable issues with steering, such as pulling to one side, or a generally unstable and bouncy feeling.
- Visible signs: Check for a sag on one side of the vehicle, fluid leaks from the shocks or struts, and uneven tire wear.
- Rough ride: A bumpy or shaky ride that feels more pronounced than usual is a strong indicator of a problem.
How much is it to replace the suspension on a truck?
The average cost for a Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $1,057 and $1,268. Labor costs are estimated between $307 and $450 while parts are priced between $750 and $818. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
