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.
How long does it take to replace shocks and struts?
It typically takes two to three hours to replace shocks and struts, according to highly rated mechanics.
Can I replace shocks 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.
Are struts hard to replace?
Replacing struts used to be a dangerous job for a DIYer. ... But these days you can buy a complete strut assembly that eliminates the strut/spring/mount disassembly process. These assemblies allow you to replace both of your front struts yourself in less than two hours.
Should you replace shocks and struts at the same time?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced at the same time . Unlike some steering and suspension components, the left and right shocks/struts tend to wear down at the same rate. If the left shock or strut is damaged, there’s a good chance the right side also needs to be replaced.
How much does it cost to replace shocks?
A typical shock and strut replacement can set you back anywhere between $450 and $1,100 on parts and labor combined. An individual shock and strut assembly costs around $150 to $900, while estimated labor costs for replacing a shock and strut assembly can range anywhere from $150 to $300 per assembly.
Will new shocks make ride smoother?
Shocks and struts help keep the vehicle stable during acceleration and braking. ... The customer may think that new shocks and struts will simply make their ride smoother, but the truth is that new shocks and struts can do a whole lot more . New shocks and struts can make a vehicle corner and brake like when it was new.
What happens if you don’t replace struts?
Safety: Worn struts result in longer stopping times and/or distances as the vehicle weight can shift (sometimes unexpectedly) during braking. ... Wear on other parts: Driving with bad struts accelerates the wear on tires, as well as other components of the suspension system, such as the springs.
Are struts worth replacing?
Struts don’t need to be replaced unless your vehicle is bouncing like it’s on a pogo stick or bottoms out in potholes and over railroad tracks — or unless a mechanic finds that they’re leaking fluid or have been damaged. ... The struts limit the resulting bouncing caused by the springs compressing and releasing.
How long can you drive with bad struts?
How long can you expect your shocks or struts to last? That depends. “Driving on rough or unpaved roads, towing a trailer or carrying heavy loads, can shorten their functional life,” says Reina. “With heavy use, you could be looking to replace them at 40,000 or 50,000 miles or sooner .
Should I replace all 4 shocks at the same time?
Shocks and struts should always be replaced in pairs or, better yet, all four , for even, predictable handling and control. After all, all four have been on the vehicle for the same number of miles and worked under the same conditions.
How do I know if I need new struts?
Other signs of car shocks and struts in bad condition are unusual noises over bumps , excessive body lean or sway in turns, or that the front end of the vehicle dives sharply in hard braking. ... If the vehicle continues to bounce after you let go, your shocks need replacing.
What is the difference between shocks and struts?
Struts serve multiple purpose : the internal shock absorber will dampen the movement of the spring as it compresses and rebounds itself while the vehicle is travelling and with its spring it will support the weight of the vehicle while it is moving so that it can adapt to road irregularities In sum, while the shocks ...
Can I drive with bad shocks?
If your shocks and struts go bad, you shouldn’t drive your car for long . Driving with bad shocks and struts is a safety risk because the stability of your vehicle is compromised. You will experience poor handling, excessive body roll, a wobbly steering wheel, and poor traction.
Can I drive with bad struts?
No. It needs to be repaired as soon as possible . A strut works by absorbing the bounce of your car driving over bumps in the road. ... Driving with a broken strut will be extremely uncomfortable for you and your passengers, and is unsafe in an emergency.
How long does it take to replace shocks?
Replacing a single set of shocks, for example takes between 2-3 hours , as does either side’s control arms. Lesser work such as replacing a spring or shock absorber will take less.
