Suspension, tires and alignment
Struts / shocks, rear pair: what it costs
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $140 | $400 |
| Labor: 1.8 to 2.8 hours × $110 to $150 an hour | $198 | $420 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $25 |
| Total, rounded | $330 | $850 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in the US, $27.13 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 rear shocks or struts are replaced as a pair. They help keep the car stable and the tires planted, especially when loaded.
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What is usually included
- Two rear shocks or struts
- New bump stops and boots if needed
- Torque to spec
- Alignment check
What moves the price
- Shocks versus struts
- Mounts and bushings
- Vehicle type, SUV or sedan
- Rusted hardware
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Are shocks or struts being replaced?
- Are the mounts included?
- Does the rear need an alignment?
- How long do the struts and labor stay under warranty?
Can you do it yourself?
A moderate DIY for shocks; rear struts with springs are riskier.
Shopping for the part? Search car parts on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure). Make sure the part fits your car before buying.
Common questions
Are rear shocks the same as struts?
Some cars use shocks in the rear and others use struts. Struts are more involved and cost more.
How long do they last?
Most last 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on roads and load. Potholes and rough pavement wear them faster.
What happens if I skip them?
The car will ride rougher, brake with more nose dive, and wear tires unevenly. Over time the ride gets less safe in emergency stops.
How much does struts / shocks, rear pair cost?
A typical range across the US is $330 to $850. 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 | $360 to $920 |
| New York City area | $350 to $890 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $350 to $910 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $340 to $860 |
| Houston area, Texas | $320 to $840 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $320 to $840 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $330 to $850 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $340 to $860 |
| Miami area, Florida | $320 to $850 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $360 to $910 |