How much does it cost to replace the struts on a Honda Accord?
Replacing the struts on your Honda Accord is an essential maintenance task that ensures a smooth and safe driving experience. Struts are a critical component of your vehicle's suspension system, and over time, they can wear out, leading to reduced ride quality and handling. In this article, we’ll break down the costs associated with replacing struts on a Honda Accord and what factors can influence the final price.
What Are Struts and Why Do They Need Replacement?
Struts are a structural part of your car's suspension system that combine a shock absorber with a coil spring. They help absorb road impacts, maintain tire contact with the road, and support the weight of the vehicle. Over time, struts can wear out due to normal use, especially if you frequently drive on rough roads or carry heavy loads. Signs that your struts may need replacement include:
- Excessive bouncing or swaying while driving.
- Uneven tire wear.
- Difficulty steering or poor handling.
- Visible fluid leaks from the struts.
Average Cost of Strut Replacement for a Honda Accord
The cost of replacing the struts on a Honda Accord can vary depending on several factors, including the model year, the type of struts used, and labor costs in your area. On average, here’s what you can expect:
- Parts: The cost of struts themselves typically ranges from $150 to $300 per strut, depending on whether you choose OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket parts.
- Labor: Labor costs can range from $150 to $300 per strut, depending on the complexity of the job and the hourly rate of the mechanic.
- Total Cost: For both front struts, the total cost usually falls between $400 and $800. If you’re replacing all four struts (front and rear), the cost can range from $800 to $1,600.
Factors That Influence the Cost
Several factors can affect the overall cost of replacing struts on your Honda Accord:
- Model Year: Newer models may have more expensive parts or require additional labor.
- Type of Struts: High-performance or specialty struts can cost more than standard ones.
- Location: Labor rates vary by region, with urban areas typically charging higher 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 cost.
Is It Worth Replacing Struts Yourself?
While it’s possible to replace struts yourself if you have the right tools and experience, it’s a complex and potentially dangerous job. Struts are under high tension due to the coil spring, and improper handling can lead to injury. For most drivers, it’s best to leave this task to a professional mechanic to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
Conclusion
Replacing the struts on your Honda Accord 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. If you’re unsure whether your struts need replacement or want a detailed estimate, don’t hesitate to contact a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos for expert advice and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to drive with bad struts?
when you hit bumps, then you can drive on it until you get tired of dealing with it. However, if your strut is bad enough to effect the drivability of your car, you are putting other people at risk, and should not be operating the vehicle until it is repaired.
How much should a strut job cost?
Similarly, if the left rear strut is being changed, the right rear strut needs to be addressed as well. Here are strut replacement cost estimates: Front Strut Replacement: $300 to $700 per strut. Rear Strut Replacement: $220 to $580 per strut.
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.
Do I need to replace all 4 struts at once?
How Many Shocks And Struts Need to be Replaced? Monroe recommends that you change your shocks and struts in pairs. If the front left strut has failed and needs to be changed, you should also install a new front right strut. Similarly, if the rear right shock needs replacing, be sure to change the rear left shock.