On average, replacing your shock absorbers, or shocks, costs around $200 to $400 per side for smaller vehicles, but that cost can be much higher if your vehicle requires premium or heavy-duty shocks.
You’ll typically need to replace all of your shocks at the same time. Some cars have shocks on all four wheels, and some have four struts, but most modern vehicles have two shock absorbers and two struts. If your vehicle has struts, it’s a good idea to replace the shock absorbers inside the strut assemblies (sometimes called a strut cartridge) at the same time as your standalone shocks.
What affects the cost of a shock absorber replacement?
There are a number of factors that can impact your shock absorber replacement cost:
- Type of shocks: If you drive a large SUV or a heavy truck, you’ll likely need heavier, more expensive shocks. Shocks may cost more for luxury vehicles as well.
- Cost of labor: A shock absorber replacement usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour per side. If you live somewhere with higher hourly labor costs or if rust and corrosion make it difficult to remove your old shocks, you could pay more for a replacement.
- Replacing all shocks and struts: You should always replace shocks in pairs, but it’s also generally a good idea to replace all of your strut cartridges and shocks at the same time. Strut inserts and front shocks may cost more than rear shocks, which could impact your final cost.
- Whether you need an alignment: You don’t always need an alignment after replacing your shock absorbers, but if you replace the strut cartridges, you should have one done. This will add $150-$200 to your total cost.
- Additional components needed: In some cases, you may need to replace additional parts that have suffered wear and tear, like your coil springs. This could add $50-$150 per part to your repair bill.
What does a shock absorber do?
Shock absorbers improve ride quality by cushioning your vehicle from bumps in the road, uneven surfaces, potholes and more. This creates a smoother experience while you’re driving. Shocks also help keep your vehicle more stable and help keep the tires firmly connected to the road.
Struts work similarly to shocks, but they may be attached to the steering system, and they include a spring. Shocks are not connected to the steering system and do not have springs.
Did you know?Shocks and struts are also called dampers because of the way they dampen bumps and vibrations while you’re driving.
How often should I replace my shock absorbers?
Shock absorbers are generally expected to last around 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, they may wear out sooner in certain conditions, including if you:
- Drive a heavy vehicle
- Drive on bumpy roads or you frequently go off-road
- Change lanes frequently or otherwise drive aggressively
- Use shocks that are too light for your vehicle
What are the signs I need new shock absorbers?
You may need to replace your shocks if you notice any of the following:
- An especially bumpy or bouncy ride
- Poor handling
- Rattling, knocking or clunking sounds while you drive
- The front of your car gets lower under braking
- The rear of your car gets lower when you accelerate
- The body of your car rolls or sways when you turn or go over bumps
- Leaking hydraulic fluid or oil
- Uneven tire wear
What happens if I don’t replace my shock absorbers?
Because the changes from worn shocks can occur gradually, it’s pretty common for drivers to need new shocks without realizing it, but once you become aware that you need new shock absorbers, you shouldn’t put off the repair for too long.
Not only will you have to endure a less comfortable ride, but your tires will wear more quickly, which could cost you more in the long run. You’ll also experience decreased handling ability, potentially putting you in a dangerous situation if you need your vehicle to react quickly.
Can I replace shock absorbers myself?
If you have some automotive experience, replacing your shock absorbers at home is doable. However, if you need new strut cartridges at the same time, it’s better to have that done by a professional, because working with springs under tension can be dangerous.
Expert insurance writer and editor Amy Bobinger specializes in car repair, car maintenance, and car insurance. Amy is passionate about creating content that helps consumers navigate challenges related to car ownership and achieve financial success in areas relating to cars. Amy has over 10 years of writing and editing experience. After several years as a freelance writer, Amy spent four years as an editing fellow at WikiHow, where she co-authored over 600 articles on topics including car maintenance and home ownership. Since joining Jerry’s editorial team in 2022, Amy has edited over 2,500 articles on car insurance, state driving laws, and car repair and maintenance.
Phil Metzger is a personal finance editor and writer with more than 30 years of experience editing and writing content across a variety of industries. In writing and editing for Jerry, Phil’s mission is to help car owners better understand their vehicles and the costs associated with car ownership. Before joining Jerry, Phil worked as a writer and editor for newspapers, magazines, television radio and online news. His work has appeared in many major publications and websites over the years, including a series he edited that was a finalist for a Pulitzer Prize.
