How many hours does it take to replace shock absorbers?
4 Answers
Replacing a single shock absorber takes approximately 40 minutes, and the process can be even faster if performed by a skilled technician. Below is relevant information: Shock absorber deformation: This primarily occurs in front wheel shock absorbers. It is caused by impact damage to the front wheels, as shock absorbers don't normally deform during regular driving. Once deformed, it will affect wheel alignment. It may cause tire wear or steering deviation, depending on the severity of deformation. Shock absorber deformation can be detected during wheel alignment measurements. Shock absorber noise: There are two main types of abnormal noises - internal pressure relief noise and shock absorber top mount noise. Internal pressure relief noise can be heard during normal driving, especially on gravel roads, where a rhythmic "thumping" sound can be heard, which is relatively dull. This is mainly caused by internal component pressure relief and won't result in oil leakage. The noise will gradually become louder with prolonged use. While it doesn't affect driving safety, it does reduce comfort.
I've done shock absorber replacements quite a few times, and it usually takes about two to three hours, depending on the car model and preparation. For regular family sedans, if you have all the tools ready and work alone, you can lift the car, remove the wheels, take out the old shocks and bolts, then install the new ones and put everything back together. The whole process doesn’t usually run into major issues—it might take just over three hours at most. However, for more complex high-end cars or SUVs, the disassembly can be trickier, possibly stretching to around four hours. The key is to prepare thoroughly—check the quality and compatibility of the new shocks before diving in to avoid safety risks. Don’t skip the test drive either; take a spin to check the new shocks’ stiffness and ensure everything’s working properly. I’d advise car owners not to experiment recklessly—it’s safer to find a reliable repair shop.
Last time I replaced the shock absorbers myself, it took nearly three and a half hours because it was my first time and I was all thumbs. To start, I had to lift the car up, and the wrench kept getting stuck when removing the wheels. When taking off the old shocks, I found the screws were rusted, which took a lot of effort to remove. Installing the new parts required careful alignment, otherwise they would wobble alarmingly. Actually, with professional teamwork, it could be compressed to about two hours, but doing it alone requires more patience and practice. I recommend preparing a spare tire and tool kit in advance to avoid delays from unexpected issues. Don’t skimp on new shocks—cheap ones are prone to failure and redoing the job wastes more time. Safety first—test drive before going on a long trip.
The time required to replace shock absorbers depends on the specific situation. For an ordinary car operated by a single person, it generally takes about two hours to complete, including lifting the car, removing the old parts, installing the new parts, adjustment, and testing. However, for complex models like large SUVs or modified cars, it may take three to four hours. Weather conditions also affect efficiency; rainy days with slippery workspaces can slow things down. It's best to consult a professional first to assess the vehicle's condition to avoid unexpected additional labor time.
