What is a good estimate to change the front two struts on a Nissan Maxima 1995?

Question

A garage...definitely not changing it myself, but I would buy the parts beforehand.

Answer 1

What sort of estimate are you looking to get? Do you want the amount of time or price to do the job yourself or have a garage do it?

If you intend to do the repair yourself, Napa Auto Parts (http://www.napaonline.com) has 1995 Maxima Struts listed for about $80. If doing this at a garage, expect some amount of markup on the part. If you don't have the necessary tools, check with a local auto part store to see if they have a loaner program. Given the age of the vehicle, expect to need to replace the nuts and bolts related to the repair. I don't have an estimate for these but the local Nissan shop should have some "shop bolts" that they can sell pretty cheap (not unusual for them to just give them away instead of charging as they aren't very expensive). If going to a shop, I'd expect about 2 hours of mechanic time (they'll have all the air tools to cut the time compared to an at home repair which could take anywhere from 4-8 hours depending no your setup). If you aren't going to a garage that specifically deals in suspension (Meineke - http://www.meineke.com specializes in suspension, breaks, and mufflers), expect the garage to need additional time to receive the parts.

One thing you can do is ask for a rough estimate directly from the local repair shops over the phone. They'll probably tell you that they need to see the vehicle but you should be able to insist on a ball park estimate to get you started.

Oh, check a publication like the "Pennysaver" for local garages advertising special deals too. They often run ads for things like this, radiator flushing, timing belts, etc...

Answer 2

Both sides according to Alldata get 3.6 hours flat rate. The struts themselves are about $185.00 each, also according to Alldata.

If you need the upper strut mounts you are looking at $42.90 ea. @ 4.0 hrs, for both sides. Also, according to Alldata.