Suspension, tires and alignment
Struts, front pair: what it costs
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $220 | $600 |
| Labor: 2.5 to 4 hours × $125 to $175 an hour | $313 | $700 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $30 |
| Total, rounded | $530 | $1,350 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $31.54 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
Worn front struts are replaced as a pair. Signs include bouncing after bumps, nose dive when braking, clunking and uneven tire wear.
What is usually included
- Two front struts or strut assemblies
- New mounts and boots if needed
- Torque to spec
- Alignment recommended afterward
What moves the price
- Complete strut assembly versus bare strut
- Strut mounts and bearings included
- Rusty bolts needing extra time
- Alignment fee
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Are the mounts replaced too?
- Alignment included in the price, or extra?
- Are these OEM-quality struts?
- Are the struts and the labor under warranty, and for how long?
Can you do it yourself?
Advanced DIY because of the compressed spring; pre-assembled strut units make it safer.
Shopping for the part? Search car parts on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure). Make sure the part fits your car before buying.
Common questions
Should struts be replaced in pairs?
Yes. A new strut on one side and an old one on the other can make the car handle unevenly. Replace both on the same axle.
How do I know struts are worn?
The car bounces after bumps, dips when braking, leans in turns, or you see oil leaking down the strut. Uneven tire wear can be another sign.
Do I need an alignment afterward?
Usually yes. Replacing front struts changes alignment settings, and a check helps protect the tires. Ask if the quote includes it.
How much does struts, front pair cost?
A typical range in Boston is $530 to $1,350. That is an estimate from parts prices, labor hours and the local labor rate, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $530 to $1,350 |
| New York City area | $520 to $1,300 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $520 to $1,325 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $500 to $1,250 |
| Houston area, Texas | $480 to $1,225 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $480 to $1,225 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $490 to $1,250 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $500 to $1,250 |
| Miami area, Florida | $480 to $1,250 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $530 to $1,325 |