How much does a suspension inspection cost?
Asked by: Gilbert Bailey DVM | Last update: April 13, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (31 votes)
What does a suspension check consist of?
Checking Your Suspension System
Inspect your front suspension by looking at the strut mounts or shock towers under your car's hood. Or, measure the distance from the top of the tire and the bottom of the fender well. To inspect your rear suspension, check the bushing, nuts, and bolts for damage.
How much does a suspension diagnostic cost?
The average cost for a Active Suspension System Diagnosis & Testing is between $44 and $56 but can vary from car to car.
How much does a suspension service cost?
How much does it cost to repair a car's suspension? The average cost to repair a car's suspension system can range between $1,000 and $5,000. But if only certain components need replacing, you might spend less than that.
How often should suspension be inspected?
Your sway bar's bolts that connect the sway bar to the vehicle should also be occasionally checked to determine their condition. Even if you do not encounter any of these common issues, experts say that you should have your vehicle's suspension system checked every year or every 12,000 miles.
How to check out your own car's suspension system
Is suspension worth fixing?
Don't avoid the inevitable if you suspect you need to replace suspension parts. The suspension repair cost will help you to avoid further problems developing in the future, as well as keeping you safe with a car that drives at maximum efficiency.
Who does free suspension checks?
Les Schwab is Your Suspension Inspection Headquarters
Stop by any location or book an appointment for a free pre-trip safety check of your vehicle's suspension and other vital components.
Can I drive with bad suspension?
However, regardless of what is broken with the car's suspension, you should not drive the vehicle. This is because, if your vehicle is experiencing a damaged or collapsed spring, this can cause sagging - which could cause more damage to your vehicle over time.
What is the life expectancy of a car suspension system?
While the longevity of a suspension system can vary based on many factors, including driving habits or road conditions, it typically lasts for 50,000 to 100,000 miles. For many drivers, it's time to replace the suspension system's shocks or struts after seven or eight years of use.
Is replacing suspension worth it?
Enjoy benefits of replacing worn shocks and struts
Replacing these worn components will restore the ride control and handling the vehicle demonstrated when it was new. It also means longer tire wear.
How much is a diagnostic fee at a dealership?
The average diagnostic fee at a dealership can range from $40 to $60 on the low end or $100 to $400+ on the high end. Most dealerships equate the diagnostic fee to one hour of labor. As you might expect, more expensive brands like BMW and Land Rover have a higher hourly rate than Honda or Ford.
How much does a suspension alignment cost?
The number of wheels
A front-end alignment (or two wheel alignment), which involves only the front two wheels, typically costs anywhere from $50 to $75. While a four wheel alignment costs more, usually $100 to $168.
Do mechanics fix suspension?
Our qualified auto service mechanics will thoroughly check your suspension system, and let you know if any of its components are damaged or in need of replacement. We'll talk you through the work required and costs charged upfront, so you can get your car in perfect working order for the price you expect.
How much should a suspension check cost?
The average cost for a Suspension System Inspect is between $70 and $89. Labor costs are estimated between $70 and $89. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
How do I check my suspension for damage?
To check, try giving your car the bounce test. To do this, push your entire weight down on your car's bonnet. Release it and then count the number of times the car bounces. Any more than three bounces means there's a problem with either your shock absorbers or struts.
Do they check suspension when doing alignment?
Then they'll raise your car on a hoist and examine the tires and suspension components to ensure that everything is in working order. Any parts that are broken or show signs of excessive wear will be replaced before the alignment process begins.
How much should it cost to replace suspension?
The suspension has many components, and, thus, you can expect the check to be around $1,000-$5,000. However, it's important to be aware of the more costly replacements and procedures: Shock absorber replacement: $200-$1,500.
How do I know if my suspension needs replacing?
- Uneven Tire Wear. ...
- Bouncing or Swaying. ...
- Knocking or Clunking Noises. ...
- Issues With Steering Responsiveness. ...
- Visible Fluid Leaks.
Can suspension problems be fixed?
Fortunately, fixing steering and suspension problems is an easy fix. Most auto repair shops will do a diagnostics check to rule out any major problems and will tell you what needs to be fixed. However, auto repair shops also are best for major problems.
What does a bad suspension sound like?
Common suspension-related noises include clunking, squeaking, rattling, or knocking sounds. Try to identify when the noise occurs, such as during acceleration, braking, or when going over bumps.
Is suspension damage repairable?
Most suspension components consist of forged steel, cast steel or aluminum, and they are not repairable when bent in a collision. In general, for safety concerns, never attempt to straighten a damaged suspension component. Always replace the damaged part with a new one.
What happens if you don't replace shocks and struts?
Neglecting the replacement of worn shocks or struts can have significant consequences for both your vehicle and your safety on the road. If your shocks or struts are past their prime, you might notice reduced control and handling. This can be especially perilous when you need to navigate tricky driving situations.
Does insurance fix suspension?
Your comprehensive car insurance does not cover any regular wear and tear of any suspension parts or puncture and repair costs of tubes and tyres. Here are a few ways how you can reduce the impact of damage on your car from general wear and tear. Avoid hard brakes: Do not slap on your brakes hard unless it is urgent.
Does AutoZone do inspections?
If you see a warning light, come to AutoZone. Fix Finder reads information from the Check Engine, ABS, and maintenance lights. The test often takes less than a minute once the reader is plugged in. Find the closest store to you.
How to get a free car inspection?
At your closest Firestone Complete Auto Care location! Stop by for a car inspection in the form of a free Courtesy Check as soon as you notice something that's "off" about your car. After all, you rely on your car day in and day out.