Can I replace the shocks/struts on my car?

Question

Okay I have a 1998 Ford Exporer, 2 wheel drive, 4.0.

I don't know if it has shocks or struts?.. If someone can tell me how to replace them, can I buy them at Auto Zone or where. If you think it would be to hard for me to do can someone tell me how much it will cost to have this done.Thanks

FYI-I just replaced the battery and the clamp, so I can handle some detailed stuff.

Answer 1

I think you can do it. It's not a very hard job. Just have to know where the shocks go. You might want to get it aligned afterward. You can find most everything at Auto Zone,and the rest of the tools at Ace Hardware.Shouldn't cost you more than $200. If you take it to a shop it can vary from 400-600.
Quite expensive. In the long run good for your tires,and a smoother ride!!

Answer 2

Most manufacturers offer the mileage intervals as a rough approximation on when you should replace your struts/shocks. Depending on your driving habits, vehicle use, vehicle type etc. you don't nescessarily have to replace your shocks/struts at the given intervals. Excessive noise, poor ride and fluid leaks are signs your struts may need to be replaced. As for the fuel filters they use enough detergents in todays fuels that changing the fuel filter regularly is less of a concern as it once was HOWEVER for the relatively low cost of the average fuel filter and the short amount of time it takes to replace them on most newer cars there's no reason not to include filter replacement as part of your regular maitenance.

Answer 3

If you did it yourself, you are going to need some extra tools: PB blaster spray for loosening the bolts on everything (let soak for few hours after a few applications), pickup an air compressor for $120 ,impact gun for $30, air hose, and a set of deep well and short well metric sockets.
If you have struts on the front, (I doubt it), then pickup a suspension coil spring compressor on e-bay or harbor freight.com.

Your shocks will prolly run about $30-40 a piece- Look at Sears or ebay. I like Rancho's, they have a good warranty.

You will spend way less than $600 plus have alot of tools to use for other projects later. Save $$$$ in the long run!
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2nd route---
Sears used to charge a flat fee for installing shocks per unit, but that may have changed.

Answer 4

If you can swing a wratchet with a socket and and a box end wrench shocks (which you have) are a breeze and you'll get out of it for less than $200.00 with anything but Monroe. Go on line and pick up some KYB shocks. - autopartswarehouse.com. Monroe sloppy grooved bore sensa-tracks can't hold a stick to the KYB products.

Answer 5

trucks have shocks, easy to install start by removing the nut on top first,remove the through bolt and nut on bottom. push up on lower half of shock and remove it.

when installing the new one it should have a wire twisted and wrapped around both ends. install the top first, cut the wire and guild it as it extends out to the slot for the lower half.

job is harder than a battery due to shock my turn when trying to remove top nut.

get shocks anywhere.

Answer 6

I wont even be worth getting your hands dirty...take it to a shop. Shouldn't cost more than $100 labor.