Your car’s shocks and struts play a crucial role in the overall health of your vehicle. They keep your tires in contact with the road, provide stability and handling, and absorb bumps and vibrations. If they are worn out or damaged, it can cause a variety of problems that will cost you more money in the long run. If you’re wondering how much it costs to replace shocks and struts, you’re not alone. It’s a common question, especially for drivers who are due for their regular maintenance check-ups. In this blog post, we will discuss the average cost of replacing shocks and struts, as well as some factors that may affect the overall price. Keep reading to learn more!
How Do Shocks And Struts Work?
Shocks and struts are key components of the suspension system in a vehicle. They help provide support for the car’s frame by absorbing road bumps and keeping your tires in contact with the ground. The shock absorbers, also known as dampers, work together with springs to cushion the ride while providing stability and control to a car’s suspension.
Difference Between Shocks And Struts
You might have heard people refer to shocks and struts interchangeably before; however, these two parts are distinct with individual functions. Both of them can help improve your vehicle’s ride quality and handling performance, but they function differently – shocks being an independent piece of the suspension system while struts are a major structural part that holds up both the chassis and suspension.
Role Of Shocks And Struts
Struts are an integral part of a car’s suspension system and act as both shock absorbers and structural supports for the vehicle’s frame. They also provide damping to help reduce bouncing or oscillation in the car body when going over bumps. Struts have a long metal bar running from one end to the other that helps hold the suspension components together. The strut also provides a place to mount the tire, wheel, and other suspension components.
The Importance Of Shocks And Struts
The shocks and struts in your vehicle provide key support for the car’s frame and act as a cushion to absorb bumps so that your car can remain stable when driving over rough terrain. Without them, you would likely experience an uncomfortable and potentially hazardous ride.
In conclusion, shocks and struts are an essential part of a car’s suspension system. They provide stabilization and help dampen the effects of road bumps, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride. They also support the car’s frame and provide mounting points for wheels and other components. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your shocks and struts in good shape so you can enjoy a safe, comfortable driving.
As they wear out or become damaged over time, it’s important to get them serviced or replaced. Poorly functioning shocks and struts can reduce your vehicle’s stability, increase stopping distance, and even lead to uneven tire wear. Regular maintenance of your suspension components is essential to keep your car safe on the road.
What Are The Warning Signs Of Worn Shocks And Struts?
It is important to identify worn shocks and struts before they cause further problems. Common symptoms of worn shocks or struts include:
Instability at highway speeds
Shocks and struts play a major role in providing stability for your car. When worn, shocks and struts can cause the vehicle to sway back and forth at higher speeds, making it difficult to control.
Excessive body roll
Body roll is the amount of lean your car has when cornering. It should be minimal and not excessive. Worn shocks and struts can cause more body roll, making your car feel unstable and unsafe when turning or changing lanes quickly.
Unusual noise
unusual noise when driving over bumps or rough terrain. This could be caused by worn-down bushings inside the shock absorber, which will cause excessive clunking and rattling.
Excessive nose dive during hard braking
The suspension system on a vehicle keeps the tires in contact with the road during hard braking. Worn shocks and struts can cause the front end of the car to dip down excessively, leading to a longer stopping distance and an uncomfortable ride.
A floating or drifting feeling while driving on a straight road
If shocks and struts are worn, your vehicle may feel as if it is “floating” or drifting while driving on a straight and level road. This can be an indication that the suspension system is not providing proper support to the chassis of the car.
Uneven tire wear
Shocks and struts play a key role in keeping your tires in contact with the road. When they are worn, one side of the car is typically lower, resulting in uneven wear on your tires. Inspecting your tires for signs of wear can help identify worn shocks and struts.
Veering or pulling to one side when braking
As mentioned above, worn shocks and struts can lead to uneven tire wear. This can also cause the car to veer or pull to one side when you apply the brakes, making it dangerous and difficult to maneuver.
A shorter stopping distance than usual
Worn shocks and struts can cause the car to dip down faster when you apply the brakes, resulting in a shorter-than-usual stopping distance. This can be dangerous, as it may lead to an accident if you are not expecting or prepared for the sudden decrease in speed.
Bouncing after hitting a bump
As your vehicle is going over bumps in the road, the shocks and struts should absorb the impact and keep the vehicle from bouncing. Worn shocks and struts can cause excessive bouncing, leading to an uncomfortable ride.
Loose steering, vague or sloppy handling
The shocks and struts help to provide support for the steering system. When they are worn, it can lead to a loose feeling in the steering wheel, as well as vague or sloppy handling. This should be inspected right away if noticed.
Leaking fluid around the shocks or struts
One of the most obvious signs that your shocks and struts need to be replaced is if there is leaking fluid around them. This indicates a seal failure and should be inspected right away.
If any of these warning signs are noticed, it is important to have the shocks and struts inspected by a certified technician right away. Worn suspension components can lead to further problems down the road if not addressed quickly. A qualified mechanic should be able to determine whether or not your shocks and struts need replacing. If they do, repairs should be done as soon as possible to maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.
What Causes Shocks and Struts to Wear Out?
There are several factors that can cause shocks and struts to wear out. Here are some of the most common:
Age of the vehicle
Shocks and struts naturally wear out over time, due to normal driving conditions, such as bumps and potholes. The age and mileage of the vehicle will also affect how quickly they wear out. Over time, shocks and struts can become weakened as the vehicle accumulates miles. As a result, they may need to be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
Fluid Leakage
Fluid leakage can also be a factor in the wear and tear of shocks and struts. If the fluid is leaking from any of these components, it can drastically reduce its lifespan. Additionally, if the shock’s dust boot has been damaged, dirt and other debris can get inside the component and cause additional wear.
Driving habits
Your driving style can also affect how quickly shocks and struts wear out. If you frequently drive on roads with bumps or potholes, it can cause the components to wear out faster by putting extra strain on them. Additionally, if you often engage in off-roading activities, this could expedite the wear and tear of shocks and struts.
Use of vehicle
The type of use that your vehicle sees can also have an impact on the wear and tear of shocks and struts. Heavy use, such as towing or carrying a heavy load, can cause these components to wear out more quickly than light use does.
Environmental Factors
The environment can affect shocks and struts in a number of different ways. Extreme temperatures, road salt, and humidity all have a negative impact on the life of shocks and struts, making them more susceptible to wear and tear.
Incorrect installation
Finally, if the shocks and struts were not installed correctly when they were first put in, this can also contribute to their early wear and tear. Incorrect installation could cause the components to become damaged or weakened over time, which would necessitate a replacement sooner than normal.
These are the most common factors that can cause shocks and struts to wear out. If you notice any signs of shock or strut failure, it’s important to have them checked by a professional as soon as possible. This will ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive and will help prevent further damage from occurring.
How Much Would It Cost to Replace Your Shocks and Struts?
Replacing shocks and struts can be quite a costly endeavor. Depending on the type of suspension system your vehicle has and where you are located, you could be looking at anywhere between $450 to $1,100 or more just for the parts alone.
When it comes to shock absorbers, there are different grades of quality and cost accordingly. Heavy-duty shocks may offer a better ride than stock options but generally come with a higher price tag as well. Nowadays most shocks are nitrogen-charged and are designed to help support the weight of your vehicle; older oil-only versions that were previously used did not have this capability.
If you purchase only the strut cartridge rather than the entire assembly, your costs will be lower since much of the existing hardware such as springs and strut mounts can be reused. However, replacing only the cartridge requires additional labor as a special spring compressor must be used to break down and rebuild it before reinstalling it into your vehicle – which adds up to both time and money. In some cases, after having new struts installed onto your vehicle a wheel alignment may also need to be done in order for everything to work properly – something else you’ll want to take into consideration when budgeting for repairs.
Ultimately, when figuring out how much replacing your shocks and struts will cost you must factor in labor costs as well as parts costs – not forgetting any potential additional charges such as wheel alignment if needed. By taking all of these factors into account prior to moving forward with repairs you can ensure that you get exactly what you need without overspending unnecessarily.
Labor Cost
Labor Cost is an important aspect of vehicle maintenance and repair that all drivers should be aware of. The cost of labor for replacing a shock and strut assembly can vary greatly, ranging from around $150 to as much as $300 per assembly. Generally speaking, auto repair shops will charge more for labor than independent mechanics because they have higher overhead costs associated with running a physical business. Dealerships may even have higher labor costs due to their close relationship with the vehicle manufacturer.
Drivers who are comfortable with DIY auto repair may be able to save money on labor costs by removing the old shocks and struts and installing new ones themselves. But this job requires a great deal of technical knowledge and the right tools, and mistakes can be dangerous – springs in struts can cause serious injury if not handled correctly! So it’s best to leave this kind of work to the professionals unless you know what you’re doing.
Parts Cost
The cost of replacing these parts can vary greatly depending on the type of parts chosen. Shock and strut assemblies typically cost between $150 and $900 each, though this can increase significantly if you choose to purchase OEM parts from a dealer.
When it comes to replacing shocks and struts, it is generally recommended to replace them in pairs as this will help provide more even wear over time. Auto repair shops tend to charge markups for replacement parts, but purchasing aftermarket parts online may be a more cost-effective option while still being able to count on quality performance. Aftermarket replacements are designed to provide the same level of performance that factory-issued parts would offer at a more competitive price.
Although there may be cheaper options available, it’s important to consider quality when choosing replacement shocks and struts; in particular, look for those with corrosion protection or double-protection packages that will help your new components last longer without needing additional repairs or replacements further down the track. Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, you may also need other related items such as bushings or ball joints – so it’s worth checking out what else you might need before you commit to purchasing any new parts.
Wheel Alignment Cost
Wheel alignment is an important maintenance task to ensure the optimal performance of your vehicle. Without it, new shocks and struts can cause the wheels to become misaligned and lead to premature tire tread wear. This can decrease the life of your tires and cause you to incur higher costs for replacements.
When a wheel alignment is done, it will return the wheels to their original positions based on manufacturer specifications. This ensures that your tires will wear evenly, which helps them last longer and helps save money in the long run.
On average, wheel alignment can cost anywhere from $150 to $200. Additionally, supplies such as wheel weights or alignments mounts may cost around $20 or more depending on individual vehicle needs. The exact cost of a wheel alignment will also depend on your specific vehicle type and where you take it for service.
It’s highly recommended that you have a wheel alignment done after replacing any suspension components such as shocks or struts since they can potentially change your vehicle’s alignment during installation. It’s also important that you keep up with regular alignments throughout the lifetime of your car at least once every 12 months or 12,000 miles — whichever comes first — in order to maintain even tire wear and maximum performance from both your tires and vehicle overall.
Is It Possible to Replace Just the Shocks or the Strut Assembly?
Yes, it is possible to replace either the shocks or the strut assembly independently. The decision of whether to replace both components can depend on several factors.
In most cases, if one component needs replacement due to wear and tear or damage, then both components should generally be replaced as a set for better vehicle stability and safety. Keeping the components in sync helps maintain the suspension system’s overall performance and car handling. For example, when one shock or strut wears out quicker than the other side due to age or an impact, replacing both ensures that the car handles evenly with both sides equally matched.
However, a professional assessment should be completed by a certified mechanic before making a final decision. If the mechanic determines that one part is in better condition than the other, then they may not recommend replacing both components at once. Depending on the age of the car, this could help reduce repair costs significantly.
In any case, it’s important to replace worn shocks and struts as soon as possible after they are noticed. Delaying repair or replacement can lead to further damage and deterioration of other suspension components, resulting in an unsafe driving experience.
Overall, replacing only the shocks or the strut assembly is possible, but it depends on a variety of factors such as the condition of each part, the type and age of the vehicle, and cost. It’s important to seek professional advice before determining the best course of action.
Can I Replace Shocks or Struts Myself?
It depends on your skill level and the tools you have available. Replacing shocks or struts requires special equipment, such as a spring compressor, shock absorber tool, and extra sets of hands. If you have limited experience with car maintenance or lack the necessary tools, it is better to leave this job to a professional.
Even if you do have the right equipment and experience, replacing shocks or struts is a delicate job. If not done correctly, it can cause further damage to your vehicle’s suspension system.
If you choose to replace shocks or struts yourself, make sure you have the right tools and use extreme caution at all times. Pay attention to your car manufacturer’s suggested torque specifications; it’s important to tighten bolts and nuts correctly so that they stay in place for a long time. It is also recommended to purchase good-quality parts from a reliable seller.
However, It’s also advisable to have a professional do the installation if you’re not confident in your own abilities; that way you can be sure that everything has been fitted correctly and safely, rather than taking any risks with DIY installations. Make sure you shop around for competitive prices too – many repair shops offer discounts if multiple services are booked together or if they’re able to source quality aftermarket parts which should help lower costs overall without compromising on safety or performance.
What Are The Benefits of Replacing Shocks and Struts?
Replacing worn-out shocks and struts can provide your vehicle with a number of benefits that improve safety, performance, and overall driving experience. Here are a few key benefits of replacing shocks and struts:
Improved Handling
Worn-out shocks and struts can make it hard to control your vehicle in sharp turns, especially at higher speeds. Replacing them with new ones helps to improve handling by providing better stability and greater traction. This also helps you maintain control of wet or icy roads, reducing your risk of skidding or sliding.
Better Ride Quality
Old shocks and struts can make riding in your vehicle uncomfortable due to excessive bouncing and jolting. Replacing them with new ones provides a smoother ride, making it more enjoyable to take long trips or drive over rough terrain.
Increased Safety
Worn-out shocks and struts can cause your car to perform poorly in emergency situations like sudden stops or swerves. By replacing them, you can improve vehicle handling and make it easier to maintain control during emergency maneuvers, increasing your safety.
Increased Fuel Efficiency
If the shocks and struts on your vehicle are not working properly, then it can cause excessive wear on other parts of the car, such as the tires. This results in increased drag which can decrease fuel efficiency. New shocks and struts help to reduce the amount of drag, enabling your vehicle to run more efficiently.
Improved Braking
Worn-out shocks and struts can affect your vehicle’s braking performance, making it difficult to stop quickly or safely. Replacing them with new ones helps improve braking by reducing excessive bouncing and absorbing shock when you brake hard. This makes it easier to control your vehicle in emergency situations.
Tire Life Extension
Worn-out shocks and struts can cause uneven tread wear on your tires, leading to premature tire failure. Replacing them with new ones helps to extend the life of your tires by ensuring that they are properly supported and aligned in order to minimize uneven wear. This can save you money in the long run as you won’t need to replace your tires as often.
Improved Suspension
Replacing worn-out shocks and struts can help improve the overall performance of your vehicle’s suspension system, enabling it to better absorb shock, reduce body roll, and maintain greater stability on the road. This makes it easier to handle bumps and other obstacles on the road.
Overall, replacing worn-out shocks and struts can provide your vehicle with a number of benefits that help improve safety, performance, and overall driving experience. It’s important to have them inspected regularly to ensure that they are in top condition for optimal performance. If you notice any irregularities such as leaking fluid or excess bouncing then it’s important to have them checked out and replaced if necessary. This can help you get the most out of your vehicle and reduce your risk on the road.
What Are The Dangers Of Driving With Worn-Out Shocks And Struts?
When your shocks and struts become worn out, there are several dangers associated with driving. Here are some of the risks posed by driving with worn-out shocks and struts:
Reduced Vehicle Control
Worn-out shocks and struts reduce the vehicle’s stability and steering control, making it difficult to keep the car on straight roads. If you suddenly hit a bump or pothole, the car may veer off course and cause an accident. Even on smooth roads, worn-out shocks and struts can decrease your ability to make sudden turns or stop quickly.
Reduced Handling
Worn-out shocks and struts also reduce the vehicle’s handling performance. This can lead to a loss of control when making turns on the highway or navigating winding roads. Poor handling can also lead to skidding, which increases the risk of an accident.
Increased Wear and Tear
Worn-out shocks and struts can cause increased wear and tear on other parts of your vehicle due to the vibrations they create. This includes accelerated tire wear, increased brake pad wear, and potentially even engine damage. All of these can be costly to repair or replace.
Increased Driving Fatigue
Finally, driving with worn-out shocks and struts can cause physical fatigue due to the constant jarring from bumps and potholes. This can lead to a decrease in concentration levels which could put you and other drivers in danger.
These are just some of the dangers associated with driving a vehicle with worn-out shocks and struts. It is important to have your vehicle inspected regularly to ensure that all of its components are in good working order. This can help prevent any potential emergencies or accidents caused by worn-out shocks and struts.
How to extend the lifespan of shocks and struts?
If you are looking to extend the life of your shocks and struts, there are several steps you can take. Here are some tips on how to keep your shocks and struts in top shape.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential in keeping shocks and struts in good condition. This includes regularly checking for signs of leakage, as well as getting them inspected by a professional mechanic at least once per year. Regularly replacing the shocks and struts according to manufacturer recommendations can also help ensure that they stay in good condition for longer.
Driving Habits
Your driving habits can have a significant effect on the lifespan of your shocks and struts. For example, take it easy when driving on bumpy roads and avoid potholes if possible. Make sure to properly adjust your tire pressure, as low tire pressure can lead to uneven or rapid wear of shocks and struts. Additionally, try not to drive at high speeds over long distances – this is especially important for people who are using their cars for racing or rallying events.
Drive with Care
It is important to practice defensive driving when operating your vehicle. This means staying alert and taking extra care when driving in hazardous conditions. Defensive driving techniques such as maintaining a safe distance from other cars, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding sudden turns or stops can help reduce wear and tear on the shocks and struts.
Avoid sudden breakage
It is important to take care when driving on rough or uneven terrain. Make sure to slow down over bumps and avoid sudden acceleration or braking as this can cause the shocks and struts to break prematurely. Additionally, make sure that you are using the correct grade of oil for your shocks and struts, as this will help ensure that they are lubricated properly and can last longer.
Reduce time spent in the corrosive environment
Shock and strut components are prone to corrosion if exposed to environmental elements for extended periods of time. So, try your best to reduce the amount of time that your car is parked in an area with a lot of moisture or dirt. If necessary, you can use a protective coating (such as wax) on shock and strut components to help protect against corrosion.
Check tire pressure regularly
Maintaining the correct tire pressure is important for all vehicles, but it can be especially crucial for shock and strut components. Low tire pressure can cause uneven or rapid wear of shocks and struts, so make sure to check your tires on a regular basis.
Following these tips can help you extend the lifespan of your shocks and struts so that they perform optimally for longer. Regularly maintaining and inspecting them as well as adjusting your driving habits can go a long way in preserving their condition. Keeping this advice in mind can ensure that you get the most out of your shocks and struts and keep your car running smoothly.
Wrapping Up
The average cost of shock/strut replacement can vary widely depending on the type of vehicle, the specific component being replaced, and any additional parts or labor needed for the repair. While an experienced mechanic may be able to give you a rough estimate based on these factors, it is always best to consult a professional before attempting a suspension repair yourself; even seemingly small changes can have a big impact on the performance and safety of your vehicle. Additionally, if you are noticing any signs of wear and tear in your suspension components, it is imperative that you get them inspected or replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage or costly repairs. Ultimately, shock/strut replacement can be an expensive enterprise, but the cost is well worth it in terms of vehicle performance and driver safety. By understanding the factors that could affect your repair costs, you can be prepared for any unexpected expenses. Ultimately, by keeping an eye on your shock/strut system, you can save yourself money and ensure that your car runs smoothly and safely for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Strut mounts are components of a car’s suspension system that provide support and stability for the vehicle. They allow the strut assembly to move up and down as you drive, while also protecting it from wear and tear. Strut mounts should be replaced as soon as they show signs of wear or damage, such as uneven tire wear, clunking noises, or a general feeling of instability while driving. Replacing the strut mounts can help improve handling and stability, prolonging the life of your suspension system. It is important to have an experienced mechanic inspect struts and mounts for any damage prior to replacing them.
A: A strut assembly typically consists of three main parts: a coil spring, a shock absorber, and a strut mount. The coil spring serves to support the weight of the vehicle and absorb impacts from bumps in the road. The shock absorber helps dampen these bumps to reduce vibration transferred through the suspension system. The mount connects all of the components and helps to keep them in place. Other components such as dust boots, bump stops, and suspension insulators may also be included in the strut assembly.
A: The life expectancy of a strut mount will vary depending on driving conditions and maintenance habits. Generally, most strut mounts will last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. However, it is important to regularly inspect strut mounts and replace them as needed. Failing to do so can result in an increased wear rate on other components of the suspension system and decreased stability while driving.
A: When lowering a car, it is important to ensure that the shocks are designed to compensate for the reduced suspension travel. Generally, low-profile struts and stiffer springs should be used in order to provide adequate support. Additionally, adjustable dampers may also be required in order to fine-tune handling. It is recommended that you consult with an experienced mechanic before attempting to install suspension components on a lowered car.
A: Strut mounts should be cleaned using a mild soap and water solution, followed by light lubrication using either silicone or white lithium grease. It is important to keep dirt, debris, and moisture away from the strut mount in order to prevent corrosion and premature wear. Care must also be taken not to damage any of the components with abrasive cleaning solutions or tools.
A: Many mechanics recommend using an air gun for shock installation, as it can help speed up the process and reduce the risk of damage to components. It is important to use a torque wrench when tightening any suspension component, such as struts or strut mounts, in order to ensure that they are tightened properly. Additionally, some shocks may require special tools or techniques in order to be properly installed, so it is best to consult with an experienced mechanic before attempting this yourself.
A: While it is possible to use two different types of shocks on a car, this is generally not recommended as it can lead to handling issues and uneven tire wear. Additionally, the dampening characteristics of the shocks may differ depending on their design, leading to inconsistent ride quality. It is best to stick with one type of shock that has been designed specifically for your car.
A: Shocks are designed to be somewhat pliable in order to absorb the impacts of bumps and other irregularities on the road. Depending on the design, it is normal for shocks to be relatively easy to compress by hand. However, if you notice any leaking fluid or concerning noises coming from your shocks, they may need to be inspected and/or replaced. It is always best to consult with a mechanic before attempting any repairs on the suspension system.
A: A strut insert is a component of the suspension system which connects the strut to the coil spring. It helps to provide an extra layer of stability and support for the coil spring. Additionally, it can help reduce noise and vibration from being transferred through the suspension system by utilizing rubber or polyurethane isolators.
A: Shock aeration is a condition in which excessive oil has been forced from the shock, resulting in reduced dampening performance. It often occurs when a shock is subjected to extended periods of high speed and/or increased load. Shock aeration can be prevented by regularly servicing the shocks and ensuring that they are filled with the correct amount of oil.
