Can I replace shock absorbers myself? If you need to replace your car’s shock absorbers but don’t want to pay an expensive mechanic’s fee, you can do so on your own with a little effort . Shocks are essential to a car’s performance, giving it a smooth and even ride. Over time, however, the vehicle’s suspensions become worn out.
Is it hard to replace shocks yourself?
The good news is, some repairs are easy to do at home . Like replacing shocks and struts. It’s not a job that you should attempt if you’re not familiar working with vehicles, but with a little training and experience, you’ll be ready to tackle the job.
What is the typical procedure for replacing shock absorbers?
- Materials needed.
- Step 1: Chock the wheels. ...
- Step 2: Raise the vehicle. ...
- Step 3: Place the jack stands. ...
- Step 1: Remove the upper shock bolt. ...
- Step 2: Remove the lower shock bolt. ...
- Step 3: Install the new shock. ...
- Step 4: Install the lower shock bolt.
Can you replace one shock absorber at a time?
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 long does it take to fit shock absorbers?
How long does shock absorber replacement take? We’ve taken a look at some average times across the industry. Whether you’re replacing the front pair or the rear, the time taken is about the same—averaging between 1.5 and 4 hours .
Is installing shocks hard?
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.
Do you have to jack up a car to change shocks?
Nope, no jacking needed . Just small hands to do the one on the passenger side.
Can you compress shocks by hand?
You cannot judge the strength or condition of a shock/strut by hand movement alone . The force and speed generated by a vehicle in operation exceeds what you can accomplish by hand. The fluid valves are calibrated to operate differently depending on the degree of movement inertia which cannot be duplicated by hand.
How long does it take to change shocks on a car?
Typically, it takes around one to two hours to change struts, according to most professional mechanics. Even if you decide to replace them on your own, the estimated time is the same as long as you have previous mechanical skills and follow the process correctly.
How much does it cost to replace shock absorbers?
Since shock absorbers should always be replaced in pairs, expect to pay somewhere around $250 to $580 in total. A single shock absorber will cost anywhere from $50 to $140, depending on the make and model of your vehicle so for the pair, you’re looking at $100 to $280 in parts.
Is it OK to just replace front shocks?
Just like replacing your brakes or tires, you should replace your shocks in pairs. However, you don’t need to replace the front and rear shocks at the same time . As long as you replace both fronts or both rears at the same time, you’ll be fine.
Should I replace springs when replacing shocks?
However, if your car is not very old and you are replacing the broken spring with the OEM part, it might be OK to replace just one . Of course, your mechanic might recommend replacing both springs to keep your suspension “even”, but again, it’s not necessary.
How do I know if my shock absorbers are worn?
The Warning Signs Of Worn Shocks And Struts
The movement may be slight, but you notice it . Vehicle “tips” to one side in turns. When taking a sharp turn or an off-ramp, your vehicle leans or “tips” to the outside of the turn and feels wobbly. The front end dives more than expected during hard braking.
What tools are needed to change shocks?
- Trolley jack.
- Axle stands.
- Sockets and spanner.
- Torque wrench.
- Coil spring compressor (if necessary)
Are shock absorbers checked on MOT?
Suspension components and shock absorbers will be checked for excessive corrosion, distortion and fractures .
Can I drive with broken shock absorber?
When a car’s suspension breaks, there are multiple components that could be causing the problem – such as a broken coil spring or a broken shock absorber. However, regardless of what is broken with the car’s suspension, you should not drive the vehicle .
What’s the difference between shocks and struts?
However, shocks and struts are two distinct parts with different functions. While both can help with your vehicle’s ride and handling, these parts work in different ways. Shocks are individual components of the suspension system while struts are a major structural component of the chassis and suspension system .
How do you install shock absorbers?
How can I compress my struts at home?
How hard should shocks be to compress?
Do shocks need to be compressed?
Most shocks are designed exactly the opposite of the 90/10 drag shock; you want an acceptable amount of compression and more force on rebound . The more compression, the harsher the bumps, but the harder it works in the turn.
How often should shocks be replaced?
Like all other automobile parts and systems, shocks and struts have a specific maintenance schedule. Auto repair experts say that generally they should be replaced between every 50,000 to 100,000 miles , depending on how much wear and tear they have received.
What do worn out shocks sound like?
Unusual noises – When shocks and struts are worn out you may hear a clunking or knocking sound . This sound is caused by metal-to-metal contact when the shock or strut bottoms out when hitting a bump. In addition, these noises could be a result in worn shock or strut mounting components.
How much does it cost to replace 4 shock absorbers?
Shock Replacement Cost
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. If needing to replace all 4 shocks (or struts), simply multiple the above total costs by two to get an estimate .
How long do car shock absorbers last?
Around 80-100k should be considered average for OE shocks. Most aftermarket ones will not last this long.
How long does it take to change shocks?
Typically, it takes around one to two hours to change struts, according to most professional mechanics. Even if you decide to replace them on your own, the estimated time is the same as long as you have previous mechanical skills and follow the process correctly.
How much does it cost to replace shocks on a car?
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 replace shock absorbers?
Shock absorber replacement can start at $150 and go all the way up to $600+ . Some luxury cars have electronically controlled shock absorbers, which can cost up to $1000+ to replace.
