Both shocks and struts are the most important components of a vehicle’s suspension assembly, providing stability to the vehicle during motion. Along with this, it also protects the vehicle from direct road shocks and bumpy driving. So, if you are facing any issues with your vehicle’s shocks and struts, your replacement cost should be considered.
In this article, we will learn in detail about the replacement cost of shocks and struts and their importance, so that you can replace the shocks and struts of your vehicle at the right time and know about this replacement cost.
Shocks and Struts Replacement Cost
On average, the replacement cost of a pair of shocks and struts can range anywhere between $500 and $1,200, and mechanic labor costs can range from $150 to $300.
However, this estimated cost may vary depending on the vehicle model, product brands, and mechanic’s location.
Front Struts Replacement Cost
On average, the replacement cost of a pair of struts can range from $500 to $900. Also, the labor cost to have a mechanic replace a pair of struts can average $150 to $350.
Often, struts brands can make up more or less the replacement cost of a pair of struts on your vehicle and the mechanic labor rates and space to replace them. However, the cost of replacing a pair of struts is more expensive in heavier and more expensive vehicles. And if you go for strut pair replacement at a certified garage or dealership compared to an independent mechanic, you will have to pay a lot more for it.
Shocks Repalcement Cost
On average, the replacement cost of a pair of shocks in a typical vehicle can range from $300 to $600, and the mechanic’s labor cost to replace a pair of shocks can be expected to range from $120 to $280. This cost does not include taxes and fees.
Often, replacement costs for shocks are slightly lower than for struts because shocks are less complex than struts and are a bit easier to fit. However, the brand and model of the vehicle, as well as the mechanic’s labor rate and location, can affect its replacement cost and if you get the shocks replaced at a certified garage or dealership instead of an independent mechanic, the cost can be much higher.
NOTE :-Often, keep in mind that socks and struts replacement costs for some luxury and sports vehicles are higher than average. Because more advanced types of shocks and struts are used in these types of vehicles, Therefore, these estimated costs may not be accurate for all vehicles.
The Difference Between Shocks & Struts
Often, shocks and struts are components of the suspension system in vehicles. Shocks and struts are designed to provide stability, control, and a smooth ride to vehicles. But shocks and struts differ in design and function.
1. Shocks
Shocks, commonly called shock absorbers, are hydraulic or gas-filled shocks used in vehicles, allowing the shocks to control the up and down movement of the vehicle’s suspension. The shocks absorb the jerks generated by the suspension system when the vehicle encounters bumps, potholes, or other road irregularities and the springs in the shock system dampen the vibrations caused by the jerks. And the vehicle wheels maintain stability with the road surface, so that the vehicle does not have excessive bounce or vibration even on potholes in the road.
2. Struts
Struts are more complex components than shocks because they combine the functions of a shock absorber and a vehicle’s structural system. Struts are commonly used in front-wheel-drive vehicles and are mounted in pairs on both front wheels of the vehicle.
The vehicle’s strut assembly consists of coil springs, the strut assembly consists of mounts, bearing plates, and strut housing components. The strut assembly is actually mounted to control the weight of the vehicle.
Can Only The Shocks or Struts Assembly Be Replaced?
Yes, the shocks or struts can be replaced individually in the vehicle. Because shocks and front struts are separate components. Both of these components are related to the suspension system of the vehicle.
If you suspect the front struts to be the cause of your vehicle’s steering system problems or if the vehicle drives bouncy when moving forward, then you can simply replace the front struts. If you get a clicking noise when your vehicle rears up or falls into the wheel wells in motion, then only the shocks can be replaced.
But before replacing a vehicle’s shocks or struts, it is a good idea to have it checked by a professional mechanic. Because sometimes changing these two components separately can spoil the driving result of your vehicle.
Symptoms of Bad Shocks and Struts
Symptoms of bad shocks and struts in vehicles can include excessive bouncing or shaking while driving, poor handling and stability, long braking distance, uneven tire wear, and a rough or uncomfortable ride. Additionally, you may also hear rattling or knocking noises from the suspension when driving on rough roads.
1. Excessive Bouncing
If your vehicle’s shocks or struts are damaged or worn, then your vehicle tends to bounce excessively after going over bumps in the road. Therefore, excessive bouncing of the vehicle at high speed can indicate worn shocks or struts.
2. Poor Handling and Stability
Often, worn shocks or struts on vehicles can effect the handling and stability of your vehicle. And this especially happens when you are taking a special turn in the vehicle. At this point, you may feel looseness in the steering system of the vehicle due to worn or worn-out shocks or struts.
3. Nose Diving During Braking
Oftentimes, worn shocks or struts in your vehicle can cause the vehicle to sink or excessively “nose dive” when the brakes are applied. Worn or worn shocks or struts can affect the vehicle’s ability to come to a safe stop.
4. Uneven Tire Wear
In many cases, your vehicle’s shocks or struts are not working properly, which can lead to uneven tire wear.Worn or worn-out shocks and struts can result in increased tread wear on the tyres.
5. Excessive Vibration
Worn or damaged shock absorbers or struts can cause the vehicle to experience more vibration at high speeds. However, excessive vibration in a vehicle can have many other causes or be a sign of a problem with the suspension system.
6. Fluid Leakage
The main symptom of bad or failing shocks or struts on any vehicle is leaking fluid. Because the leakage of oil or hydraulic fluid from the shocks or struts is due to wear and tear of the shocks or struts. In this situation, this problem needs immediate attention.
7. Noise Suspension
A faulty shock or strut can cause knocking, rattling, or screeching when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. This noise could be due to shaking or bad struts.
What is The Lifespan of Shocks and Struts?
In fact, the lifespan of shocks and struts is highly dependent on vehicle performance and road conditions. The average life span of shocks and struts in typical vehicles can range from 50,000 miles to 100,000 miles.
But driving the vehicle on rough roads for long periods of time can reduce the lifespan of the shocks and struts. Because the vehicle drives on rough roads most of the time, other components of the vehicle’s suspension system, including the shocks and struts, are exposed to greater stress and wear.
FAQ’s
Q. Is it worth replacing shocks and struts?
Yes, replacing worn-out shocks and struts helps reduce tire wear, steering stability, and suspension problems with your vehicle. and maintains control and balance of the vehicle.
Q. Should I replace all four shocks at the same time?
In vehicles, shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs (front struts and rear shocks). If you replace the shocks and struts on all four wheels at the same time, it is even better. Because doing so helps maintain stability in your vehicle’s handling and a uniform response on both sides of the vehicle.
Q. Which is cheaper, struts or shocks?
Often, it is cheaper to replace shocks on vehicles than struts. Because shocks are less complicated than struts.
Q. Do shocks affect ride quality?
Yes, if your vehicle’s suspension system has bad shocks or struts, then it does affect the ride quality of your vehicle. Bad or worn shocks or struts can cause your vehicle to jump excessively at high speeds and experience instability in the steering system.
