How Much Does Strut Replacement Cost?
Expect to pay $420 to $1,240 at an independent shop for a typical car, and up to $1,520 at a dealership. Worn struts make the car bouncy, nose-dive under braking and wear tires faster. They are always replaced in pairs.
- Parts$200–$600
- Labor$220–$640
- Shop time2–4 hours
- DIY difficultyIntermediate (3/5)
Estimate your cost
Strut Replacement cost by vehicle type
| Vehicle | Parts | Labor | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact / economy car | $200–$600 | $220–$640 | $420–$1,240 |
| Midsize sedan / crossover | $230–$690 | $240–$705 | $470–$1,395 |
| Truck / full-size SUV | $260–$780 | $255–$735 | $515–$1,515 |
| Luxury / European | $360–$1,080 | $285–$830 | $645–$1,910 |
Independent shop vs. dealer vs. chain
| Where | Hourly rate | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| Independent shop | $110–$160 | $470–$1,395 |
| Chain (Midas, Firestone…) | $120–$175 | $495–$1,460 |
| Dealership | $160–$230 | $580–$1,700 |
What does it do?
Struts combine a shock absorber and a coil spring, supporting the car's weight and controlling body motion.
Signs you need this repair
- Excessive bouncing after bumps
- Nose dives when braking
- Body roll in turns
- Oil leaking from the strut body
- Cupped tire wear
Can you do it yourself?
Difficulty: Intermediate (3/5). Complete strut assemblies avoid the need for a spring compressor. An alignment is needed afterwards.
Doing it yourself saves the labor portion, roughly $220–$640, so you would pay only for parts ($200–$600).
Is it worth fixing?
Yes if they leak or the car bounces and nose-dives. Worn struts lengthen stopping distances and wear tires faster.
How to save money
- Complete strut assemblies cost a bit more in parts but save labor and are safer.
- Replace in pairs on the same axle.
- Combine with an alignment and tire rotation.
Questions to ask your mechanic
- Are you installing complete strut assemblies?
- Are both struts on the axle being replaced?
- Is the alignment included?
Frequently asked questions
How long do struts last?
Typically 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
Struts vs shocks: what is the difference?
A strut is a structural suspension part that includes a shock absorber; a shock is a standalone damper.
Do I need an alignment after struts?
Yes, front strut replacement almost always changes alignment.
Related repair costs
Sources and methodology
Estimates combine typical book labor times, current aftermarket and OEM parts prices, and 2026 US shop labor rates. See exactly how we calculate them.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics (pay and duties)
- Federal Trade Commission: Auto Repair Basics (estimates, warranties, your rights)
- NHTSA: Check for recalls before paying for a repair
- ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence): technician certification