Shocks and Struts?

Question

About how much would it cost to get all new shocks and struts on a 2000 Oldsmobile Alero?

And how do I know if I actually need them?

I've had the car for 2 and half years, and they haven't been changed since. I'm not sure when the previous owner had them changed either.

There's about 65000 miles on my car.

Sometimes when I drive down the road to my dorm, I feel like my car's on hydrolics or something cuz it bounces like crazy. Other times I hit a little bump in the road and feel like I bounce a lot too. But just normal driving doesn't do anything.

I called my dad's friend who works at a car garage...my car only needs struts, it doesn't have shocks. With the struts, labor, and wheel alignment, it's estimated around $860.00 plus tax.

Answer 1

knocks, rattles over bumps and fluid leakage are all signs they are bad. take it to a good garage and ask them if they will do a bounce test and inspection of the suspension for you. as for price, it has struts front and rear so its kind of expensive $400.00 - $500.00 per axle and you would need a 4 wheel alignment which is usually about $70.00 (they will probably throw that in at no charge if you need all four and negotiate). at 65k you may be OK but being a GM car they may be bad. at the most it would cost about $1100.00.

Answer 2

Struts and shocks should be replaced after 50,000 miles under MAP guidelines.

I recommend the KYB brand as they are the only ones to guarantee a return to original ride quality. Gabriel and Monroe can be rather harsh. These list for $98.25 each front and rear. Cost to install depends on labor rates in your area so I'd call around for some prices as this can vary by $30-40hr from one location to the next.

ASE Certified Automotive Service Advisor

Answer 3

Struts cost about $70 apiece for your car. With install, close to $500 for the whole car. The bouncing you describe sure sounds like bad struts.

Answer 4

I don't know how much they cost, but I do know that unless you are offroading or driving like a maniac they don't wear out @ 65,000 miles.

You will know you need them when a minor speed bump will cause the car to keep bouncing a little while after you pass it.
Or if the car will kinda ride like a boat on water.

Answer 5

I don't think You need to change that.
since you are asking if You need to change them,is because You have not problem with them.
time and millage ,means nothing on them,is the road You travel with them.( and males tennagers ,also spoil them)

Answer 6

if the car suspension squeaks, rides rough or handles poorly you should fix...

cost? probably several hundred dollars.