The Average Cost to Replace Rear Shocks at a Mechanic is $741 to $826. The Average Rear Shock Replacement Labor Cost Is $197 to $248, Which You Can Save if You DIY.
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This price range is based on national averages for all vehicles and does not factor in taxes, fees, or your particular make and model. Related repairs or maintenance may also be needed such as replacing control arms and bushings, ball joints, sway bars, coil springs, and leaf springs. For a more accurate estimate based on your make, model, and location, use the RepairPal Fair Price Estimator.
Get a more accurate estimate for your rear shock replacement cost using RepairPal’s Fair Price Estimator:
Cost at the Mechanic: $741-$826
Parts: $545-$578
Labor: $197-$248
Bad shocks can make driving uncomfortable or even unsafe. At a repair shop, technicians can lift your automobile off the ground, remove the old, worn, or damaged rear shocks, and install new ones in about two or three hours. Like an oil change, replacing rear shocks should be part of your car’s preventative maintenance schedule with the average vehicle needing new shocks between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, depending on the kind of driving and roads the car has faced.
Cost to DIY: $545-$578
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Parts Needed:
- Car jacks and jack stands
- Wrenches or socket sets
- Replacement rear shocks
- Crowbar or pry bar
Socket set or wrenches
Replacing the rear shocks is usually an easy job, so the majority of the rear shock replacement cost comes from the parts. Your cost will be double if you’re getting a pair of fresh rear shocks instead of just one. Unless you’re just replacing a shock that has been damaged, it is highly recommended that you replace both rear shocks as a set.
Keep in mind: your exact rear shock replacement cost will depend on the shocks that your car’s make and model can use, and there may be a few options. When in doubt, always refer to your repair manual or manufacturer suggestions.
What Is Rear Shock Replacement?
Most cars have struts up front and shock absorbers in the rear. These parts generally do the same thing: enable smoother driving and handling. However, struts and shocks get old and stiff the more force they absorb. Replacing old and ineffective shocks on the rear axle is called a rear shock replacement.
If you visit an auto shop, you can get just a rear axle service, which would cover both rear shocks and associated parts, or both front and rear suspension service at the same time. An app like FIXD can send maintenance reminders so you don’t miss the best time to change shocks or struts.
What Does a Rear Shock Replacement Include?
A simple bounce test is all you need to do to verify your rear shocks need to be replaced, and the job itself is very easy as long as the top and bottom of the shocks are easily accessible. The process takes about two to three hours at the average automotive shop. When replacing shocks, you might need to have other suspension components replaced at the same time such as tie rod ends and bushings for the sway bars and control arms.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace Rear Shocks?
If your rear shocks are worn out or damaged, extended driving could affect far more than just ride quality. Not only could this become a safety issue, but faulty shocks can also lead to excessive wear on other components such as the axle bearings, tires, and even the steering system. By getting the rear shocks replaced, you’ll save yourself a litany of other expenses that could show up.
How Often to Get Rear Shocks Replaced
Every car is built differently, and each one faces different kinds of roads and driving patterns. In general, cars need their shocks replaced somewhere between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. Many vehicles in front-wheel drive, driven under light conditions, usually need front struts or shocks replaced before the rear ones. You could wait until between 75,000 and 90,000 miles if you drive less often and only on pavement.
Rear shocks contain a piston with hydraulic fluid, and sometimes issues might cause it to leak out. Eventually, leaky shocks will become ineffective at cushioning a vehicle. Refilling shocks with hydraulic fluid is a moderately easy DIY task, but if the leaking is caused by old age, it’s more logical to replace the shocks themselves.
Disclaimer: The directions in your owner’s handbook will clarify the right time to change important parts like front and rear shocks. You can find the exact model of parts originally used when building your vehicle, so you’ll have no doubts that it will fit and perform like normal. The free FIXD app can help you stay on top of shock replacements and other key maintenance tasks for your car.
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Common Symptoms That You Need to Replace Your Rear Shocks
- Shaky or bumpy ride
- Hydraulic fluid leaking out of the shocks
- Excessive bouncing over obstacles like speed bumps
- Tires wearing down unevenly
- More difficulty steering in time
- Unusual noises or vibrations while steering
- Forward dipping when slowing to a stop
Related Maintenance Services
The following services are commonly performed with rear shock replacement:
- Control arm and bushing replacement
- Ball joint replacement
- Sway bar replacement
- Coil spring replacement
- Leaf spring replacement
Never Miss Important Maintenance Again with FIXD
Get the FIXD Sensor and free app today for a custom maintenance schedule based on your make, model, and mileage. FIXD sends automated maintenance alerts right to your phone so you never forget oil changes, tire rotations, brake pad replacements, and more. It even tracks tire, wiper, and battery life to keep your car running smoothly. Get FIXD today and take the stress out of car care. It’s that simple.
At FIXD, our mission is to make car ownership as simple, easy, and affordable as possible. Our research team utilizes the latest automotive data and insights to create tools and resources that help drivers get peace of mind and save money over the life of their car.
