How much to replace struts on a Dodge Journey?
Replacing the struts on your Dodge Journey 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, increased stopping distance, and a less comfortable driving experience. In this article, we’ll break down the costs associated with replacing struts on a Dodge Journey and provide insights into what factors influence the price.
What Are Struts and Why Do They Matter?
Struts are a structural part of your vehicle's suspension system. They combine a shock absorber with a coil spring to support the weight of the vehicle, absorb road impacts, and maintain proper alignment. Worn-out struts can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and even damage to other suspension components if not addressed promptly.
Average Cost of Strut Replacement
The cost to replace struts on a Dodge Journey can vary depending on several factors, including the type of struts, labor costs, and whether you’re replacing the front, rear, or all four struts. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Parts: The cost of struts themselves typically ranges from $100 to $300 per strut, depending on the brand and quality.
- Labor: Labor costs can range from $150 to $300 per strut, depending on the shop’s hourly rate and the complexity of the job.
- Total Cost: For a pair of front or rear struts, you can expect to pay between $400 and $1,200. Replacing all four struts could cost between $800 and $2,400.
Factors That Influence the Cost
Several factors can affect the overall cost of replacing struts on your Dodge Journey:
- Type of Struts: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) struts are often more expensive than aftermarket options, but they may offer better compatibility and performance.
- Labor Rates: Labor costs vary by location and shop. Urban areas with higher living costs may have higher labor rates.
- 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 total cost.
- Alignment: After replacing struts, a wheel alignment is often necessary to ensure proper handling and tire wear. This can add $75 to $150 to the total cost.
Signs Your Struts Need Replacement
Not sure if your Dodge Journey’s struts need to be replaced? Look out for these common signs:
- Excessive bouncing or a rough ride.
- Uneven tire wear.
- Leaking fluid around the struts.
- Difficulty steering or poor handling.
- Clunking or knocking noises when driving over bumps.
Why Choose Kevin's Autos for Strut Replacement?
At Kevin's Autos, we pride ourselves on providing reliable and affordable auto repair services. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we ensure that your Dodge Journey receives the highest quality care. Our skilled technicians use top-notch parts and tools to get you back on the road safely and efficiently. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and transparent estimates, so you know exactly what to expect.
If you’re in need of strut replacement or any other auto repair service, don’t hesitate to contact us. Call us today or visit our shop to schedule an appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of a bad strut?
Symptoms 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.
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.
Do you have to get 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.
Does a Dodge Journey have struts or shocks?
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 much does it cost to replace struts on a Dodge Journey?
| Car | Service | Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 Dodge JourneyL4-2.4L | Service typeStrut Assembly - Front Replacement | Estimate$1453.65 |
| 2010 Dodge JourneyL4-2.4L | Service typeStrut Assembly - Front Replacement | Estimate$1453.65 |
| 2017 Dodge JourneyV6-3.6L | Service typeStrut Assembly - Rear Replacement | Estimate$1549.03 |
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.
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.
Do I need an alignment after replacing struts?
It depends on the vehicle design. A strut by design is also a component that supports the wheel & tire. Some models aren't affected when the struts are replaced while others do change the wheel alignment. Strut removal & installation potentially changes the position of the tire alignment.
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.
What are the symptoms of bad struts?
If your vehicle dives when braking, bottoms out (scrapes loudly) when going over a speed bump, the rear-end squats when accelerating, or your vehicle bounces more than usual after going over a bump, it could be signs of bad shocks or struts.
