In general, you’ll pay a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on parts and labor. Replacing the front struts (two assemblies) typically runs about $600–$1500; rear shocks (two) about $300–$700. Replacing all four usually costs around $900–$2200, plus alignment if needed.
What to know about the Honda Element’s suspension
The Honda Element uses front MacPherson struts and rear shocks. Replacement costs will reflect the front strut assemblies and rear shocks separately, as the rear is not a strut assembly. This affects pricing because you’re not always replacing four identical components at once.
Cost breakdown
Front struts (two)
This covers the front suspension replacement, typically the bulk of the price since the parts and labor for two assemblies are included.
- Parts: aftermarket two-front-struts typically range from about $240–$480 for the pair; OEM can be higher, around $480–$680 for the pair.
- Labor: $300–$600 for the pair, depending on shop rate and complexity.
- Total: roughly $540–$1280 for the front pair.
Concluding: The total for the front pair will be the major portion of a suspension job, and cost varies by brand and region.
Rear shocks (two)
Rear shocks are generally cheaper to replace than front struts, but prices vary with brand and labor.
- Parts: aftermarket two-rear-shocks typically $120–$360; OEM $240–$420.
- Labor: $180–$360 for the pair.
- Total: roughly $300–$780 for the rear pair.
Concluding: Replacing the rear shocks adds a smaller but still meaningful portion to the overall bill.
All four components
If you replace both front struts and both rear shocks in one go, you combine the above costs and may save on labor per job.
- Parts: sum of front and rear ranges, typically $360–$840 (aftermarket) or $720–$1100 (OEM) for the four.
- Labor: sum of both, typically $480–$960 depending on shop rates.
- Total: commonly $840–$1920, not including alignment or additional parts.
Concluding: A single, all-inclusive replacement can be cost-effective, especially if your vehicle needs multiple components replaced.
Note: Wheel alignment after suspension work is typically required and costs about $80–$150.
What affects the price
The following factors commonly influence your final bill. Understanding them can help you shop smarter.
- Brand choice: OEM/Honda parts versus aftermarket (e.g., Monroe, KYB, Bilstein) often changes price and warranty.
- Labor rate: Urban areas and independent shops often charge more than rural shops or chain franchises.
- Included components: Some quotes include top mounts, bearings, dust boots, and stabilizer links; others may bill those separately.
- Alignment: A wheel alignment is typically recommended after strut/shock replacement and adds about $80–$150.
- Vehicle condition: If control arms, bushings, or springs are worn or damaged, the job may require extra labor or parts.
Concluding: Clear, itemized estimates from several shops help you understand the total and compare options like OEM vs aftermarket, installation quality, and warranty coverage.
DIY considerations
Replacing front struts is a moderate to advanced job that requires proper tools, safety precautions, and alignment afterward. If you’re comfortable with basic garage work and torque specs, you can save on labor by providing your own parts and doing the job yourself; however, incorrect installation can lead to dangerous handling characteristics.
Concluding: For most Element owners, especially those not equipped to handle suspension work, professional replacement with an alignment is recommended to ensure safe, proper handling and tire wear.
Summary
Replacing the front struts on a Honda Element typically costs around $600–$1500 for the front pair, with rear shocks adding about $300–$700. Replacing all four components generally runs about $900–$2200, plus alignment. Prices vary by part brand, region, and whether installation includes top mounts and an alignment. Always obtain multiple, itemized quotes and verify what’s included in the price.