Shock Absorber Replacement Cost Guide

Shock absorbers play a crucial role in keeping your car safe and comfortable on the road, with the average replacement cost being £379. If your vehicle needs new ones, getting them replaced promptly is crucial to avoid more significant issues down the line.

In this guide, we’ll break down the shock absorber replacement cost in the UK, explain what shock absorbers do, and answer common questions so you feel confident before heading to a garage.

Continue reading to gain a clear understanding of the costs and what to expect from a shock absorber replacement.

Key takeaways

How much does a shock absorber replacement cost?

The average cost of replacing shock absorbers in the UK is £379.

While costs generally range from £150 to £500, a full set typically averages £416 for the front pair and £321 for the rear.

The price varies greatly due to different car makes and models. If you need all four replaced, you also need to consider the labour cost from mechanics. You can use car repair finance services to split these costs into interest-free repayments.

Shock absorber cost by car manufacturer

A key factor that can affect the price of a shock absorber replacement is the manufacturer of your car. Here’s a quick overview of costs per common car brand.

Car Manufacturer	Cost to Replace Shock Absorbers
Audi	£430
BMW	£600
Ford	£350
Mercedes	£600
Peugeot	£350
Toyota	£320
Volkswagen	£450

Shock absorber replacement cost by UK region

The cost of replacing shock absorbers can vary across the UK, depending on location and garage rates.

Here’s a breakdown of average prices in different cities. These figures include both parts and labour, and actual costs may vary depending on your vehicle and chosen garage.

Location	Average Cost (£)
Birmingham	£329
Bristol	£387
Glasgow	£371
Leeds	£334
Liverpool	£388
London	£367
Manchester	£343
Newcastle	£373
Sheffield	£304

Labour costs to replace shock absorbers

In the UK, labour costs for replacing shock absorbers typically range from £60 to £120 per axle, depending on your garage and vehicle type. Naturally, straightforward jobs are quicker and cheaper.

How long does a shock absorber replacement take?

On average, garages take 1.5 to 4 hours to replace shock absorbers.

However, the time it takes for mechanics to replace shocks varies between car makes and models. Keep this average in mind when planning your repair.

Do I have to replace all four shock absorbers at once?

Typically, the front and rear shock absorbers are replaced together as this helps maintain reliable handling and a consistent response on both sides of the vehicle.

At the very least, they should be replaced in pairs, i.e the front shock absorbers and rear shocks.

What are car shock absorbers?

Shock absorbers are an important part of your vehicle's suspension system.

Cars have four shock absorbers — one per each wheel. They help reduce the amount of vibration and shock transmitted from the road to the car's body, improving vehicle stability, comfort, and safety.

In addition, shock absorbers help protect other suspension components from wear and tear caused by rough roads, which can help keep annual service costs down.

How long do shock absorbers last?

The life expectancy of shock absorbers is at least 4 to 5 years or 50,000 miles.

However, it depends on the road conditions. If you drive on smooth roads in generally good conditions, the lifespan of shock absorbers can extend to longer than ten years.

On the flip side, if you’re driving on rough, uneven tracks filled with potholes, your shock absorber's lifespan will significantly reduce to a few years.

What happens during a shock absorber replacement?

During a shock absorber replacement, a mechanic removes the worn shocks and inspects the surrounding suspension components. New shock absorbers are then fitted, ensuring they are properly aligned and secure.

The mechanic may suggest additional fixes if they notice any other problems during the repair. They will always consult you before making other changes, though.

What are the signs of worn shock absorbers?

Over time, shock absorbers can wear out and become less effective, leading to an uncomfortable ride.

Symptoms of worn shock absorbers include:

Increased vibration in the steering wheel
A bouncy ride
An excessive amount of body roll when cornering

Moreover, if you notice visible damage such as oil leakage or rust on the shock absorber, it's crucial to replace it immediately to ensure your safety.

What noise does a broken shock absorber make?

Broken shock absorbers are known for making unusual noises. If one is broken, you might hear a clunking sound knocking under your car. That’s the sound of metal components hitting each other as the car bumps over an uneven surface.

How do you maintain shock absorbers?

Like any car part, to maintain your shock absorbers, it is essential to inspect them regularly.

Listen for strange noises and check for:

Leaks, rust, or corrosion
Uneven tyre wear
Changes in ride quality

Alongside checks, you should also try to drive smoothly to reduce strain. Where possible, avoid rough roads and ensure your vehicle receives an annual service to catch any issues early.

If replacement is needed, always fit shocks in pairs to maintain your suspension's balance and safety. And don’t be scared to ask your garage or dealership for advice!

Can I drive my car with a broken shock absorber?

Driving with a broken shock absorber can be dangerous.

It’s vital to understand that shock absorbers are an essential part of the suspension system. Their main purpose is to absorb shocks from the road while driving.

A broken shock absorber will cause discomfort while riding and lead to loss of control over the vehicle in certain situations. Therefore, driving your car with a broken shock absorber is not recommended, as it could put you and other drivers at risk.

Can I fit new shock absorbers myself?

Yes, but only with the proper knowledge and tools. Generally, if you’re unsure and asking this question, it’s best to get a professional to replace them.

Only attempt to change your shock absorbers yourself if you are competent and confident in your ability to carry out mechanical repairs on your car.

Considering the importance of shock absorbers for a car’s health, it doesn’t make sense to risk it and try a DIY job replacing shock absorbers. Instead, we recommend taking your car to your nearest mechanic to carry out the job safely.

Is it worth changing shock absorbers?

Yes. Replacing your shock absorbers is always recommended, but especially if your car struggles on bumps, corners feel unstable, or you often drive on rough roads. Doing so improves ride quality and keeps steering safe and responsive.

What else could be causing problems if your shock absorber isn’t broken?

If your vehicle is handling poorly or the ride feels off, but your shock absorbers are fine, other components could be the cause.

Common issues to check include:

Worn or damaged springs – can lead to a rough ride and reduced stability
Incorrect wheel alignment – may cause pulling to one side and uneven tyre wear
Damaged wheel bearings – can mimic shock absorber problems and affect steering
Faulty lower suspension arms – often cause wobbling or uneven tyre wear
Worn suspension bushes – can create vibrations and affect handling

Last thoughts

Thankfully, replacing a car’s shock absorbers is simpler than it might seem.

To get the most value, try to replace all of them together or at least one pair at a time. Comparing quotes from a few garages can help you get a clear idea of the shock absorber replacement cost and find the best price.

Split the cost with Bumper

Bumper knows a large repair bill on your car is the last thing you want to spend your money on, but essential parts such as shocks are crucial for you and your family’s safety.

With Bumper’s car repair loans, you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost.

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers.