How much should it cost to replace struts?
Replacing struts is a common repair that many vehicle owners face as their cars age. Struts are a critical component of your vehicle's suspension system, ensuring a smooth ride and maintaining proper handling. But how much should you expect to pay for this repair? In this article, we’ll break down the costs associated with strut replacement and what factors can influence the price.
What Are Struts and Why Do They Need Replacement?
Struts are part of your car's suspension system, combining a shock absorber and a coil spring into one unit. 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 regular use, leading to symptoms like excessive bouncing, uneven tire wear, or poor handling. Replacing them is essential for safety and comfort.
Average Cost of Strut Replacement
The cost of replacing struts can vary widely depending on several factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, the type of struts required, and labor costs in your area. On average, here’s what you can expect:
- Parts: Struts typically cost between $150 and $300 each. High-performance or specialty struts may cost more.
- Labor: Labor costs can range from $150 to $300 per strut, depending on the complexity of the job and the shop’s hourly rate.
- Total Cost: For both front struts, the total cost usually falls between $400 and $1,000. Replacing all four struts can cost $800 to $2,000.
Factors That Influence the Cost
Several factors can affect the overall cost of strut replacement:
- Vehicle Type: Luxury or performance vehicles often require more expensive parts and specialized labor.
- Location: Labor rates vary by region, with urban areas typically charging more than rural areas.
- Aftermarket vs. OEM Parts: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are usually more expensive than aftermarket options, but they may offer better quality and compatibility.
- Additional Repairs: Sometimes, related components like mounts or control arms may also need replacement, increasing the cost.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Struts
Not sure if your struts need replacement? Look out for these warning signs:
- Excessive bouncing or swaying while driving.
- Uneven or rapid tire wear.
- Difficulty steering or poor handling.
- Visible damage or leaking fluid from the struts.
Tips to Save Money on Strut Replacement
Strut replacement can be costly, but there are ways to save money without compromising quality:
- Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple repair shops to find the best price.
- Consider Aftermarket Parts: High-quality aftermarket struts can be a more affordable alternative to OEM parts.
- Replace in Pairs: Always replace struts in pairs (front or rear) to ensure balanced handling and even wear.
- Look for Promotions: Some shops offer discounts or promotions on suspension repairs.
Conclusion
Replacing struts is an investment in your vehicle’s safety and performance. While the cost can vary, understanding the factors involved and knowing what to expect can help you budget for this essential repair. At Kevin’s Autos, we pride ourselves on providing reliable and affordable auto repair services. If you’re in need of strut replacement or have questions about your vehicle’s suspension, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help keep your car running smoothly!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take a mechanic to replace struts?
about two to four hours
The time it takes to replace shocks and struts depends on your vehicle's type and the mechanic's experience level. Generally, it takes about two to four hours to replace four shock absorbers, with struts usually taking about an hour longer.
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.
What happens if you don't fix struts?
Over time, shocks and struts can lose their ability to control weight transfer; this is what causes you to feel like you're not in control of your vehicle. This can be dangerous, especially if your tires lose contact with the pavement, making it difficult to control your vehicle in an emergency situation.
Do I 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.
How much does a strut job cost?
Front Strut Replacement: $300 to $700 per strut. Rear Strut Replacement: $220 to $580 per strut.
Are struts worth replacing?
Yes, replacing your struts and shocks can significantly improve your car's ride quality, often making it feel more like a new car. Over time, struts and shocks wear out and lose their ability to effectively dampen the impact of bumps and road irregularities.
How urgent is it to replace struts?
Usually, a change would be recommended when reaching the 50,000 to the 75,000-mile mark. This mile mark is usually when signs of uncomfortable riding become evident, though these numbers do not mark the definite lifetime of the shocks and struts.
Why is strut so expensive?
Additionally, they have to be able to support the weight of the front end of the car, which can make them more expensive. The cost of struts can also vary depending on your car's make and model, the brand of the parts you choose, and whether you opt for a professional mechanic or a DIY approach.
What does a failing strut sound like?
You'll often hear clunking or knocking sounds when bad struts react to bumps. This is one of the most common strut noises indicating your suspension system needs attention.
Can you drive a car with bad struts?
In summary, driving with a bad strut is not safe and can lead to various risks, including loss of control, reduced braking efficiency, tire wear, and increased wear on other suspension parts. It is recommended to have the strut repaired as soon as possible to ensure the safety and performance of your vehicle. 2.
