How much should it cost to replace rear shocks?

The cost to replace rear shocks on a vehicle can vary significantly depending on the make, model, and year of the car, as well as the specific type of shock absorbers needed. On average, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 to have the rear shocks replaced by a professional mechanic.

Factors Affecting Rear Shock Replacement Cost

Several key factors influence the overall cost of replacing rear shocks on a vehicle:

• Vehicle Make and Model: Luxury and high-performance vehicles typically require more expensive shock absorbers, leading to higher replacement costs.


• Labor Costs: The amount of labor required to access and replace the rear shocks can vary, with some vehicles being more challenging to work on. Labor rates can range from $50 to $150 per hour.


• Shock Absorber Type: There are different types of shock absorbers, such as gas-charged, monotube, or twin-tube, each with varying price points.


• Replacement Parts: The cost of the new shock absorbers themselves can range from $50 to $300 or more per shock, depending on the quality and brand.


• Additional Repairs: In some cases, replacing the rear shocks may also require other related repairs, such as replacing the struts or springs, which can add to the overall cost.

It's important to note that the cost can also vary depending on the region and the specific repair shop or mechanic you choose to perform the work.

When to Replace Rear Shocks

Rear shocks typically need to be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, or when they show signs of wear and tear, such as leaking fluid, excessive bouncing, or uneven tire wear. It's recommended to have the rear shocks inspected regularly as part of routine vehicle maintenance to ensure they are functioning properly and to avoid potential safety issues.

By understanding the factors that influence the cost of replacing rear shocks, you can better prepare for the expense and make an informed decision when it comes time to have this important maintenance task performed on your vehicle.

Can you drive with bad back shocks?

You can technically drive with bad rear shocks, but it is highly unsafe and not recommended, especially for any long distances or high speeds. Driving with bad shocks compromises your car's handling, increases braking distance, and can lead to a loss of control, potentially causing accidents. It also puts extra strain on other components and can lead to more expensive repairs down the road. 
Safety risks of driving with bad shocks

• Poor handling and loss of control: The car will be unstable and bounce excessively, making it hard to control during sudden turns or swerving. 
• Increased stopping distance: Worn shocks reduce your ability to stop effectively, making you more vulnerable in emergency situations. 
• Reduced traction: Your tires will have less contact with the road, particularly in wet conditions, increasing the risk of skidding. 
• Compromised braking systems: Bad shocks can interfere with your anti-lock braking system (ABS), making it less effective. 

Other consequences

• Uneven tire wear: The unstable bouncing can cause your tires to wear out unevenly and prematurely. 
• Damage to other parts: Other components in your suspension and steering system can be damaged from the extra strain, leading to more costly repairs. 
• Uncomfortable ride: The car will feel "floppy" and bouncy, with more pronounced body roll when turning. 

When to stop driving immediately

• If you notice a significant and unmanageable loss of control. 
• If there is leaking fluid from the shock absorber. 
• If the vehicle is extremely unstable or the bouncing is uncontrollable. 

How much does it cost to get rear shocks replaced?

Replacing rear shocks costs approximately $250 to $580 for parts and labor on a standard vehicle, but this can range higher depending on your car's make, the quality of parts, and labor rates in your area. For luxury or high-performance vehicles, the total cost can easily exceed $1,000. 
Factors that influence the total cost

• Vehicle type: Luxury or high-performance cars are significantly more expensive to work on, potentially increasing the total cost by hundreds of dollars or more. 
• Parts: The cost of the parts themselves can vary widely. Premium or performance shocks will cost more than standard replacements, and OEM parts may be more expensive than aftermarket components. 
• Labor: Labor rates vary by location and by the complexity of the job. Labor for just rear shocks is typically between $100 and $250, but the total time and complexity can influence the final price. 
• Additional components: It's often recommended to replace other worn suspension parts at the same time. Costs can increase if components like coil springs, mounting hardware, or bushings need to be replaced as well. 
• Alignment: After replacing struts (not just shocks), an alignment is necessary. This is an additional cost to budget for. 

How to estimate your cost

• For a standard car: A good estimate for a pair of rear shocks is between $250 and $580, covering both parts and labor. 
• For a luxury/performance car: The total can go up to $1,000 or even higher, so it is best to get a detailed quote from a qualified mechanic or dealership. 
• To get an accurate quote: It's a good idea to get quotes from a few different mechanics or dealerships to compare prices for the parts and labor involved in your specific vehicle's replacement. 

Is it okay to just replace rear shocks?

It is not recommended to replace only one rear shock; you should always replace them in pairs for balanced handling and safety. Replacing a single shock can lead to uneven damping, which may cause the new shock to wear out faster and lead to poor vehicle control. While it is possible to just replace the rear, if the front shocks are also worn, replacing the rears will highlight how bad the front ones are, and you may want to replace all four at a later time for consistent performance. 
Why you should replace both rear shocks

• Balanced handling: Replacing both ensures consistent damping and road feel on the rear axle. A single new shock has different characteristics than the old one, which can negatively affect steering, braking, and overall control. 
• Even wear: A new shock paired with an old one can cause the new shock to over-compensate for the worn one, leading to accelerated wear on the new part. 
• Safety: Uneven shocks can cause the vehicle to pull, lose grip on one wheel during turns, or feel unstable under acceleration and braking. 

When to replace all four

• If front shocks are worn: If you know your front shocks are also worn, it is best to replace all four at the same time to restore optimal handling and stability. 
• For best results: Replacing all four at once is the ideal scenario for consistent performance and peace of mind, although it is not always necessary depending on the car's age and the condition of the shocks. 

Additional considerations

• Front vs. rear: Replacing front shocks is often more important for overall handling than rear ones, but replacing rear shocks alone is still a common and valid repair. 
• Other parts: When replacing shocks, it is often recommended to also replace related rubber components like mounts, bump stops, and spring seats to ensure the new shocks are performing optimally. 
• Wheel alignment: After replacing any suspension components, it is highly recommended to get a wheel alignment to prevent uneven tire wear and ensure proper handling. 

How long does it take to change rear shocks?

Changing rear shocks can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours or more, depending on the vehicle, the technician's experience, and the presence of complications like rust. For a DIYer with basic tools, 20-30 minutes per side is realistic for a standard hydraulic shock, while more complex suspensions or seized bolts can significantly increase the time. 
This video demonstrates how to replace shock absorbers on a car: 21sChrisFixYouTube · Jan 5, 2015
Factors that influence the time

• Experience level: An experienced mechanic or DIYer with the right tools might be able to do the job in under an hour, while a beginner could take much longer. 
• Vehicle design: Some vehicles have easy access to the shock mounts, while others require removing interior trim or other components, adding time. 
• Suspension type: Simple, conventional hydraulic shocks are generally faster to replace than coil-over shocks, air shocks, or other specialized systems. 
• Condition of bolts: Rusted or seized bolts are a common issue and can add significant time, as they may need to be cut off or require penetrating oil and extra effort to remove. 
• Tools: Having air or impact tools can speed up the process, while using only hand tools on a rusted suspension can make it a much longer job.