Our guide today will focus on strut replacement cost and everything you need to know about a strut and it’s functions in a car. Struts are a structural component of the suspension system that are found on practically every front-wheel-drive vehicle. A strut is a suspension component that combines several different suspension elements into a single compact assembly.
What Is a Strut Replacement Cost?
Expect to pay between $450 and $900 on average to replace a pair of struts. Individual strut assemblies cost between $150 and $300, thus parts alone will cost between $300 and $600. For the pair, labor alone will cost between $150 and $300.
Even if one of the struts appears to be in good condition, you should replace them in pairs. Otherwise, you risk having major handling and suspension issues, which can lead to dangerous driving conditions and costly damage.
The cost of replacing struts varies significantly based on the strut manufacturer (typically KYB, Monroe, Gabriel, or Bilstein), the make and model of your vehicle, and where you have the work done.
Going to a car dealership for strut repair can be far more expensive, and you can nearly always expect to pay at least $1,000 for a normal front strut replacement. It makes sense to shop about for this type of servicing and, preferably, go with a reputable independent mechanic to obtain the best pricing.
It’s worth noting that when new struts are put, a wheel alignment should be done. A two-wheel alignment will cost an additional $40 to $80, and a four-wheel alignment will cost an additional $80 to $160 if all four struts are rebuilt.
Difference Between Shocks and Struts
Shocks, often known as shock absorbers, are an important component of the suspension system. They regulate the impact and rebound movement of your vehicle’s springs and suspension, ensuring that the tires are always in touch with the road surface. They absorb energy in the end. Without shocks, the automobile or truck’s wheels will bounce off the road surface and jitter unpredictably as it travels down bumpy roads.
A piston, a coil, and hydraulic fluid are the main components of the shock absorber. The shock initiates a compression cycle when the car wheel dips down, for example into a pothole or crack, and a piston exerts pressure on hydraulic fluid in the device’s upper chamber. The fluid helps to slow down the coil as it relaxes back into position, which helps to keep the ride from being too rough.
Struts on the other hand are a structural component of the suspension system that are found on practically every front-wheel-drive vehicle. A strut is a suspension component that combines several different suspension elements into a single compact assembly. The components include: Steering knuckle, strut bearing, coil spring, spring seats, shock absorbers etc.
The coil spring is capable of supporting the vehicle’s weight while also adjusting to road abnormalities such as bumps, hills, and valleys. The struts connect the upper bearing to the lower ball joint, allowing the entire assembly to pivot in either direction when the vehicle is turned.
Struts have two functions: the internal shock absorber dampens the movement of the spring as it compresses and rebounds while the vehicle is moving, and the spring supports the vehicle’s weight while it is moving, allowing it to adjust to road irregularities. In summary, the struts support and regulate the vehicle in motion, whereas the shocks simply absorb impact.
How Shocks and Struts Work?
Shocks and struts help to stabilize your vehicle’s movements, giving you more control whether you turn, brake, accelerate, or drive on bumpy roads. Shocks, struts, or a mix of the two are used in today’s vehicles.
The main difference is that a shock is a separate component, but a strut is a single structural element that includes the shock and other properties. Both aid in vehicle stability and keep the tires in contact with the road. Your car would bounce down the road if it didn’t have shocks.
What Is a Shock Replacement Cost?
Shocks, like struts, should be replaced in pairs. Shocks are slightly less expensive to replace than struts because they aren’t as sophisticated.
The typical cost of replacing a pair of shocks is between $250 and $580. Individual shock absorbers range in price from $50 to $140, putting the total cost of the parts between $100 and $280. A couple of hours of work to complete the job will set you back $150 to $300.
To generate an estimate for replacing all four shocks (or struts), simply multiply the aforementioned total prices by two.
Keep in mind that some automobiles (particularly premium vehicles such as Mercedes Benz, Audi, BMW, or Lexus) will cost more than the average. Sports cars and other vehicles with more advanced shock or strut assemblies are in the same category.
Can I Replace Shocks/Struts Myself?
It all depends. Shocks may be replaced with relative ease. Dealing with possible rust or seized bolts as a result of their exposure to the weather will be the most difficult portion. However, you can easily save a few hundred dollars on a shock replacement.
Individual parts and entire assemblies are available for struts. If the spring isn’t attached to the strut, you’ll need a spring compressor to compress it for removal and reinstall. The extremely compressed spring could break loose and cause a catastrophic injury if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Because the spring is included in the assembly, replacing struts that arrive as assemblies is significantly easier. The average DIY technician can replace a pair of strut assemblies in under two hours.
If the spring is separate, however, it’s preferable to leave the replacement to the specialists.
How Long Do Shocks and Struts Last?
Under optimal driving circumstances, shocks and struts can last 5-10 years or 50,000-100,000 miles on average. Manufacturer, bad roads, big loads, towing, forceful braking, and aggressive driving are just a few of the conditions that might shorten the lifespan of these components. After 40,000 miles or if the car starts to bounce, sag, have increased braking distance, or has other suspension problems, it’s essential to start inspecting these parts on a regular basis.
If you suspect your shocks or struts are failing, you should have your car inspected or serviced right away. Shocks and struts can both cause dangerous conditions like bouncing and poor braking, which can lead vehicle accidents. Front struts, unlike shocks, are a vital part of the steering system, and if they fail, the steering could be catastrophically affected. The vehicle will most likely not be drivable if these sections entirely collapse.
How much does it cost to replace shock and strut?
A normal shock and strut replacement can cost anywhere from $450 to $1,100, including components and labor. Individual shock and strut assemblies can cost anywhere from $150 to $900, with labor expenses ranging from $150 to $300 per assembly.
Is strut and shock same thing?
Shocks and struts are two completely separate pieces that do the same job. A strut can’t be used to replace a shock, and a shock can’t be used to replace a strut. Shocks and struts vary in that a strut is a structural component of the vehicle’s suspension system, whilst a shock is not.
How do I know if my shocks are bad?
Unusual noises over bumps, significant body lean or sway in curves, or the front end of the vehicle diving suddenly under severe braking are all symptoms of damaged shocks and struts. Your shocks need to be replaced if the vehicle continues to bounce after you let go.
Should I replace all 4 shocks the same time?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs (front and rear axles), and it’s much better if all four wheels are replaced at once. This aids in maintaining consistent handling and reaction on both sides of the vehicle.
Conclusion
Hope you enjoyed reading this article on strut replacement cost. If your strut is faulty, we advise that you take it to an auto mechanic who will help you replace it.
