How much to replace struts on a Ford Escape?
Replacing the struts on your Ford Escape is an essential maintenance task that ensures your vehicle continues to provide a smooth and safe ride. Struts are a critical component of your car's suspension system, and over time, they wear out due to regular use and road conditions. In this article, we’ll break down the costs associated with replacing struts on a Ford Escape and provide insights into what factors influence the price.
What Are Struts and Why Do They Need Replacement?
Struts are part of your vehicle'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 ensure proper vehicle handling. Over time, struts can wear out, leading to symptoms such as:
- Excessive bouncing or swaying while driving.
- Uneven tire wear.
- Difficulty steering or poor handling.
- Clunking noises when driving over bumps.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to have your struts inspected and potentially replaced.
Cost Breakdown for Replacing Struts on a Ford Escape
The cost of replacing struts on a Ford Escape can vary depending on several factors, including the model year, the type of struts used, and labor costs in your area. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Parts: The cost of struts themselves typically ranges from $150 to $300 per strut, depending on whether you choose OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or aftermarket options.
- 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: On average, replacing both front struts on a Ford Escape can cost between $500 and $1,000. If you’re replacing all four struts (front and rear), the cost can range from $800 to $1,500.
Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and prices may vary based on your location and the specific repair shop you choose.
Factors That Influence the Cost
Several factors can affect the overall cost of replacing struts on your Ford Escape:
- Model Year: Newer models may have more expensive parts or require additional labor.
- Type of Struts: Premium or performance struts will cost more than standard options.
- Labor Rates: Labor costs vary by region and repair shop. Urban areas often have 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 total 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 task. Struts are under high tension, and improper handling can lead to injury. For most drivers, it’s best to leave this job to a professional mechanic to ensure safety and proper installation.
Conclusion
Replacing the struts on your Ford Escape is an investment in your vehicle’s safety and performance. While the cost can range from $500 to $1,500 depending on various factors, it’s a necessary expense to maintain a smooth ride and avoid further damage to your suspension system. If you’re in the Mountain View, CA area, feel free to contact Kevin’s Auto Repair for professional and affordable strut replacement services. Call us today at (650) 965-7112 to schedule an appointment!
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Is it OK to drive 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.
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.
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.
How much should a strut job cost?
A typical shock and strut replacement can set you back anywhere between $450 and $1,100. However, keep in mind that this can vary depending on the type of vehicle suspension you have and your location.
What noise does a bad strut make?
Struts dampen the oscillations from the vehicle's suspension springs and act as a structural part of the suspension. A bad strut typically makes a hollow or banging sound.
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 happens if you don't fix bad struts?
But it's about more than just comfort - driving with bad struts can also compromise your safety on the road. With compromised suspension, your car's ability to maintain traction and stability is diminished. Car axles can also become misaligned, causing uneven tire wear and potentially leading to a blowout.
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.
