Strut Replacement Cost: What You Need to Know

The Complete Guide to Strut Replacement Cost

If your vehicle’s ride has become rough, bouncy, or downright unpredictable, there’s a good chance your struts are worn out. As someone who has worked on countless suspension systems, I can tell you firsthand that replacing struts isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for safety and handling. But how much should you expect to pay? Let’s break down the strut replacement cost, including parts, labor, and factors that affect pricing.

The Average Strut Replacement Cost

On average, the cost to replace struts at a shop runs about $1,200 per pair, including parts and labor. However, several factors influence this price:

• Vehicle Type: Luxury vehicles sometimes require far more expensive struts, including those with air-adjustable suspensions. Trucks and SUVs tend to have more expensive struts than compact sedans.
• OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) struts cost more than aftermarket options, but they often provide better performance and longevity.
• Strut Assemblies versus Strut Replacement: There are two options when it comes to strut replacement. If your springs are in good condition, it can sometimes be a bit cheaper to replace just the strut and strut mount instead of installing a complete strut assembly that includes the strut, strut mount, new spring, spring isolator, dust boot, and bump stop.
• Labor Costs: Expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $300 per axle for labor alone. Shops with higher hourly rates (or dealerships) will charge more.
• Alignment Needs: Many shops recommend a wheel alignment after replacing struts, adding another $100 to $150 to the bill.

DIY Strut Replacement Cost

If you’re mechanically inclined and have a floor jack and jack

stands, you can save a bundle by replacing the struts yourself. Buying and installing complete strut assemblies is much easier than buying just the struts and using a spring compressor to disassemble the old strut units.

Tools Needed for a DIY Strut Replacement

• Shop Manual Subscription for step by step instructions and torque specifications.
• Socket set
• Combination wrenches
• Torque Wrench
• Rust Penetrant

Strut Cost

Fully loaded strut assembly

The image on the right shows a complete strut assembly. While the price varies depending on where you purchase the strut assembly, plan to spend around $175 each if you buy from a local auto parts store. Or, buy online to save more. An ACDelco complete strut assembly for a 2016 Chevrolet Equinox costs $170 from Rockauto.com. Or, you can buy a Monroe brand for $120 from rockauto.com (plus shipping, around $35)

DIY cost breakdown:

Struts (aftermarket): $275 to $400 per pair
Alignment: $100 to $130

I generally don’t recommend strut-only replacement because compressing the spring can be dangerous. To learn more about the differences between bare strut replacement and replacing with a strut assembly, see this post.

Understanding Strut Replacement

Struts are a crucial part of your car’s suspension system. Unlike simple shock absorbers, struts integrate a coil spring and damping unit into one assembly. They help control your vehicle’s stability, ride quality, and even braking performance. When they wear out, you’ll notice excessive bouncing, uneven tire wear, and longer stopping distances. Ignoring bad struts isn’t an option if you care about safety and vehicle performance.

When to Replace Struts

Most struts last between 80,000 and 120,000 miles, but this depends on road conditions, driving habits, and the quality of the original parts. Here are a few signs it’s time for new struts:

Bouncing and Nose Diving: If your car bounces excessively after hitting a bump or dives forward when braking, your struts are shot.
Uneven Tire Wear: Worn struts cause inconsistent tire contact with the road, leading to irregular tread wear.
Clunking Noises: If you hear knocking sounds over bumps, your struts or strut mounts could be failing.
Leaking Fluid: Hydraulic fluid leaking from the struts is a sure sign they need replacement.

Ways to Save on Strut Replacement Cost

• Compare Shop Prices: Independent mechanics often charge less than dealerships.
• Use Aftermarket Struts: Many high-quality aftermarket brands offer good performance at a lower price.
• Buy Online: Ordering struts from reputable online retailers can save you 20-50% compared to in-store pricing.
• Bundle Repairs: If other suspension components need replacement (like control arms or sway bar links), doing it at the same time can reduce labor costs.

©, 2025 Rick Muscoplat