Replacing struts on a car typically costs between $750 and $1,500 for a full set of four, including parts and labor. For a single strut, expect to pay $150 to $400. The final price is highly dependent on your car's make and model, the quality of the parts, and local labor rates. While it's a significant investment, worn struts critically impact safety, handling, and tire wear, making replacement a necessary repair.
The largest cost variables are the parts themselves and the labor intensity of the job. Struts are key structural components of your suspension system, housing the spring and shock absorber in one unit. They control wheel movement and ensure tire contact with the road.
Factors Influencing the Cost:
- Vehicle Type: Luxury and performance vehicles, or trucks requiring heavy-duty struts, will have significantly higher part costs than economy cars.
- Part Quality: You can choose from OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, premium aftermarket brands (like Monroe or KYB), or more economical options. Premium parts often offer better longevity and performance.
- Labor Costs: Mechanics typically charge 1.5 to 3 hours of labor per axle. This job requires specialized tools like a spring compressor to safely disassemble the strut assembly.
- Additional Parts: It is often recommended to replace related components simultaneously to save on future labor. This includes strut mounts/bearings and sway bar end links, which can add $100 to $300 to the total bill.
A professional mechanic will also perform a wheel alignment after installation, as replacing struts alters the vehicle's geometry. This service usually costs an additional $100 to $200 but is essential to prevent premature tire wear.
| Vehicle Type | Estimated Cost for 4 Struts (Parts & Labor) | Common Labor Time (Hours) | Recommended Additional Service |
|---|
| Economy Car (e.g., Honda Civic) | $750 - $1,100 | 2.5 - 3.5 | Wheel Alignment |
| Midsize SUV (e.g., Ford Explorer) | $900 - $1,300 | 3.0 - 4.0 | Strut Mounts Replacement |
| Luxury Sedan (e.g., BMW 3 Series) | $1,200 - $2,000+ | 3.5 - 5.0 | Full Suspension Check |
| Full-Size Truck (e.g., Ford F-150) | $1,000 - $1,600 | 3.0 - 4.5 | Sway Bar Link Replacement |
| Average Cost (Across Models) | $450 - $900 (per axle) | 1.5 - 2.5 (per axle) | Wheel Alignment ($100-$200) |
