Front strut replacement for a Chevy Traverse typically costs about $600–$1,400 for the pair, including parts and labor; adding rear shocks can bring the total to roughly $900–$2,400, depending on parts and local rates.
Understanding what drives the price
Pricing varies based on whether you replace complete front strut assemblies (with springs and mounts) or just the damper units (inserts), the rear suspension setup, brand of parts, and the shop’s labor rate. The Chevy Traverse front suspension uses MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension relies on shocks in most configurations. Year and trim can affect required components and the time needed for the job.
- Front strut assemblies (two front units): Parts typically $120–$350 per strut; labor often $150–$350 per strut. For two, expect about $600–$1,400 total before tax. Higher-end brands or performance-tinned units push the price higher.
- Front strut inserts (if you replace only the damping units): Parts roughly $40–$120 per strut; labor can be substantially higher because springs must be compressed—roughly $150–$400 per strut. Two struts could total around $380–$1,040.
- Front-end mounting hardware and springs: Additional components like mounts, bearings, or coil springs can add roughly $20–$100 per strut, depending on wear and supplier.
Before you shop, know that you have options for how you replace worn parts and how that affects price. The two main paths are replacing complete front strut assemblies or replacing only the strut inserts.
Concluding: The front end typically drives the bill, and choosing complete assemblies versus inserts accounts for most of the price difference. An alignment is often required after any strut work, which adds another small to mid-range cost.
Costs for rear shocks on a Chevy Traverse
On many Traverse models, the rear suspension uses shocks rather than struts. Replacing rear shocks varies by brand and labor rate, and the price shown below reflects a typical per-axle (both rear wheels) replacement.
- Rear shocks (per rear axle, both sides): Parts typically $40–$150 per shock; labor roughly $80–$180 per shock. For two shocks on an axle, expect about $240–$660 total before tax and fees.
Before committing to rear work, understand you’re replacing shocks on the rear axle as a unit. This section outlines typical per-axle costs for the rear suspension.
Concluding: Rear shock replacement can add a few hundred dollars to the bill per axle, depending on the brand and local labor rates. If your vehicle has additional wear on control arms or mounts, costs can rise.
Other expenses to factor in
Beyond parts and labor, several ancillary costs commonly appear in the final estimate.
- Alignment after replacement: typically $80–$120.
- Taxes, shop fees, and disposal charges for old parts: may add a modest amount.
- Potential additional components: new mounts, springs, or sway bar links if worn or damaged.
Concluding: Budget for alignment and possible extra hardware to avoid surprises in your final invoice.
What to consider when budgeting
Prices vary by model year, region, and the shop you choose. If you’re price-conscious, compare quotes that specify: (a) front strut assemblies versus inserts, (b) whether a single-visit or two-visit job is recommended, (c) whether an alignment is included, and (d) the brand and warranty of parts used.
Summary
For a Chevy Traverse, expect front strut replacement costs to run about $600–$1,400 for the pair when installing complete front-strut assemblies, with inserts generally offering a lower parts bill but potentially higher labor. Rear shocks add roughly $240–$660 per rear axle. In total, budgeting roughly $900–$2,400 is reasonable for front and rear suspension work, depending on year, trim, brands, and local labor rates. Always obtain written quotes that break out parts, labor, alignment, and taxes, and confirm whether the quote includes a pre- and post-work alignment.