Typically, replacing both front struts on a Dodge Ram 1500 costs about $500 to $1,300, including parts, labor, and alignment, with exact figures depending on year, trim, part choice, and local rates.
Strut replacement is a common maintenance item for Ram 1500 pickups. The front suspension often uses MacPherson-type struts that include a coil spring, shock absorber, and mounting hardware. Worn struts can cause nose-diving when braking, excessive bouncing, poor cornering, or uneven tire wear. Replacing them generally involves removing the wheel, supporting the vehicle, swapping in the new strut assemblies, and performing a wheel alignment afterward. Prices vary by whether you choose aftermarket or OEM/Mopar parts and by the shop’s labor rate.
Cost snapshot
Prices shown reflect typical market ranges for replacing both front struts on a Ram 1500 and include parts, labor, and alignment where applicable.
- Front strut assemblies (pair) — aftermarket: about 200–700 USD; OEM/Mopar: about 400–1,000 USD for the pair
- Labor to install two front struts — typically 2–4 hours total; at shop rates of 80–120 USD per hour: about 160–480 USD
- Wheel alignment after installation — 75–150 USD
- Optional related parts if mounts/bearings wear — roughly 20–100 USD
Concluding the cost snapshot: for most Ram 1500 owners, the total out-the-door price for both front struts, including parts, labor, and alignment, tends to fall in the range of roughly 500 to 1,300 USD, though premium OEM parts or dealer labor can push toward the higher end.
Factors that influence price
Several variables determine the final quote. The following factors commonly affect how much you’ll pay for a strut replacement on a Ram 1500:
- Parts brand and type ( aftermarket vs OEM/Mopar, assembled unit vs loose components)
- Model year and exact front suspension setup (some years use slightly different strut designs)
- Labor rates by location and whether the shop quotes a fixed price or hourly rate
- Need for additional parts or services (mounts, bushings, sway bar links, alignment)
- Whether you supply parts or have the shop supply them
Conclusion: When shopping for a Ram 1500, obtain multiple itemized quotes, confirm that the price includes a wheel alignment, and ask whether the price covers assembled struts or separate components. Be prepared for extras if other suspension components show wear.
DIY vs professional installation
Replacing front struts on a Dodge Ram 1500 is feasible for experienced DIYers with the right tools, including a spring compressor and proper torque equipment. DIY installation can save the labor portion, typically several hundred dollars, but carries risks of improper installation, which can affect safety and alignment. A professional installation provides a warranty on parts and ensures correct torque specs and alignment.
Getting a reliable quote
Before you commit, ask shops the following to ensure you get an accurate, apples-to-apples comparison:
- Is the price for front strut assemblies or individual struts?
- Does the quote include wheel alignment?
- Are mounts, bearings, or other hardware included or billed separately?
- What brand of parts is being used (aftermarket vs OEM)?
- Is there a warranty on the parts and labor?
Conclusion: When contacting shops, request a written, itemized estimate and compare not only price but also the included parts, labor hours, warranty, and whether an alignment is included in the total.
Summary
Replacing the front struts on a Dodge Ram 1500 generally runs about 500 to 1,300 USD, depending on the choice of aftermarket versus OEM parts, regional labor rates, and whether an alignment is included. The main cost drivers are the price of the strut assemblies, labor time, and any required alignment or additional parts. For the best outcome, obtain multiple quotes, verify inclusions, and consider whether a DIY replacement is appropriate for your skill level and tools.