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Shock Replacement Cost The average total cost to replace a pair of shocks will run about $250 to $580. An individual shock absorber will cost around $50 to $140 so parts alone will set you back between $100 and $280. A couple hours of labor to do the job is an additional $150 to $300.
How much does it cost to install shocks?
A typical shock and strut replacement can set you back anywhere between $450 and $1,100 on parts and labor combined. An individual shock and strut assembly costs around $150 to $900, while estimated labor costs for replacing a shock and strut assembly can range anywhere from $150 to $300 per assembly.
Can you replace just rear shocks?
It’s not necessary, but it’s usually recommended to replace them in pairs, for example, both front struts or both rear shocks. If you replace only one shock absorber, it may create “unevenness” from side to side when driving over bumps.
How long do rear shocks last?
On average, if your car has been “babied,” you can expect your shocks/struts to last about 10 years. If you have really used your car like a workhorse, 5 years is probably all you can expect. This means that for the average driver, 7 or 8 years is the maximum life expectancy of most shocks and struts.
How long does it take to replace rear shocks?
Replacing a single set of shocks, for example takes between 2-3 hours, as does either side’s control arms. Lesser work such as replacing a spring or shock absorber will take less. For an entire uspension overhaul, it becomes a question of days, not hours.
Should I replace all 4 shocks at the same time?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs or, better yet, all four, for even, predictable handling and control. Remember, too, that whenever the struts are replaced, it becomes important to check the alignment, as it may have changed, to protect your vehicle tires and assure maximum safety.
How do I know if my rear shocks are bad?
The Warning Signs Of Worn Shocks And Struts Instability at highway speeds. Vehicle “tips” to one side in turns. The front end dives more than expected during hard braking. Rear-end squat during acceleration. Tires bouncing excessively. Unusual tire wear. Leaking fluid on the exterior of shocks or struts.
Do rear shocks make noise?
As shocks and bushings wear, they lose their ability to properly support the strut. The result is that the strut can bottom out. When the strut bottoms out, the metal-to-metal contact can cause a knocking sound that emanates from the front or rear wheels.
What causes rear shocks to leak?
If your shock absorber is leaking, it is probably leaking hydraulic fluid. Your shock absorber is probably made of a fluid-filled cylinder with a sliding piston inside of it. A leaky shock absorber is faulty because it has less hydraulic fluid, so it will provide less and less viscous friction as time goes on.
Do I need an alignment after replacing rear shocks?
You will not need another wheel alignment with just a rear shock change. The only time you need a new alignment is when you mess with the geometry of the suspension. If you changed out ball joints, struts, tie rods, or the like.
Is it OK to drive without shocks?
Yes you can drive a vehicle provided it has a Solid Rear Axle and is a Rear Wheel Drive without Shocks. Just don’t expect a comfortable ride and your Braking will be severely reduced. You’ll also destroy your Springs and your Tires.
Is it hard to replace shocks?
Shocks are pretty straightforward—you usually just have to disconnect the top and lower mount to be able to remove them. However, on certain cars, you may need to remove some paneling to gain access to the shocks.
What is the difference between shocks and struts?
The major difference between shocks and struts is that a strut is a structural part of the vehicles suspension system where a shock is not. A strut is also a pivot point for the vehicles steering system and contains a coil spring. Because of this an alignment is always needed when replacing a strut.
Can you run shocks front and rear?
Yes, you can use two different shocks on your car or truck, as long as you follow a couple simple rules: As long as you have a reason for installing different shocks front and rear you can do so safely. Never Install Used Shocks – You should never install used shocks on your car or truck.
Is it better to replace front or rear shocks?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs (front axle or rear axle), and it’s even better to replace the shocks/struts on all four wheels at one time. This helps maintain reliable handling and a consistent response on both sides of the vehicle.
How often should you replace rear shocks?
You can find the exact maintenance schedule for replacing your shocks and struts in your owner’s manual or by contacting your dealer. The general recommendation is that shocks and struts should be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
How do you check rear shocks?
The “bounce test” requires some effort. Go to one corner of the car and push down. When you let go, the car should bounce up, then settle back to at-rest height. If the car bounces more than twice, you most likely need new shocks.
Can bad rear shocks affect steering?
Worn shocks and struts can have a detrimental effect on steering, stopping and the stability of your vehicle. As shocks wear, they can lose their ability to control the rate of weight transfer when going around corners; this may also result in increased steering input to navigate turns.
What happens if shocks are bad?
Bad shocks also can affect steering control and cause uneven tire wear. Because car shocks wear out gradually, you might not notice because you get used to a looser, bouncier ride quality, much like you get used to longer stopping distances as brake pads on your car wear out.
