Typically, labor hours run about 2 to 4 hours per strut, with both front struts on one axle usually requiring 4 to 8 hours. Adding an alignment commonly adds 0.5 to 1.5 hours.
Replacing struts is a common suspension job that varies by vehicle design, whether you replace the entire strut assembly or reuse springs, and by shop workflow. The following guide provides typical ranges and the main factors that influence the time. Always check a model-specific estimate from your mechanic for accuracy.
Labor-time ranges by task
Below are typical time frames cited by shops for common strut replacement scenarios. They reflect independent-shop estimates and service-manual guidance, and can vary with vehicle design and method (assembly replacement versus separate spring and strut components).
- Front strut replacement (per strut): 2.0–3.5 hours
- Front struts replacement (both sides on one axle): 4.0–7.0 hours
- Rear strut replacement (per strut): 1.5–3.0 hours
- Rear struts replacement (both sides): 3.0–6.0 hours
- All four struts (both axles): 7.0–13.0 hours
- Alignment after replacement: 0.5–1.5 hours
Times are general benchmarks. Your vehicle could fall outside these ranges depending on access, corrosion, and whether additional parts are replaced as part of the job.
What affects the duration
Several factors can push the clock up or down. The main drivers of variation include:
- Vehicle design and strut type (front MacPherson strut, independent suspension, or rear coil/spring setups) and whether a full strut assembly is installed.
- Access and mounting complexity, including engine bay clearance and rusted fasteners.
- Whether a preassembled “quick-strut” unit is used versus separate spring and shock components.
- Replacement of additional parts (upper mounts, bearing plates, sway-bar links, axle hardware) that may accompany a strut job.
- Need for an alignment and the cost of any corrective alignment work.
- Tools and safety requirements, such as a spring compressor or transmission support, which can affect efficiency and time.
In practice, a shop will quote a single blended rate for the job, often grouping labor for the entire set of struts on an axle or the whole vehicle along with any alignment.
Planning considerations
To avoid surprises, ask your shop for a written estimate that breaks out the labor hours by task, notes about protective steps (like torque specs and anti-seize), and whether alignment is included or billed separately. If you’re financing a larger suspension job, consider whether you want to replace related components simultaneously to reduce future labor time and downtime.
Summary
In summary, expect roughly 2–4 hours of labor per strut, 4–8 hours for both front struts on one axle, and 7–13 hours for a full four-strut replacement. Add 0.5–1.5 hours for alignment. Always verify model-specific estimates with your mechanic, as the exact hours depend on vehicle design, condition, and service approach.