Shock absorbers are a critical part of a car’s suspension system. So, if your vehicle needs a shock absorber replacement, fixing it as soon as possible is important.

Let’s discuss how much it costs to replace shock absorbers in the UK and what they are and do. We'll also answer some common questions to ensure you’re in the loop before you book a garage appointment. 

Scroll down to start with the shock absorber replacement cost now.

Shock absorber replacement cost - Overview for UK drivers

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

While costs are between £150 and £500, If you’re only in need of a set, the average price for the front pair is £416 and the rear set is £321.

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.

Are you worried about the costs? With Bumper, you could benefit from 0% interest in car repair financing and pay for car repairs in easy-to-manage monthly payments.

Shock absorber price 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 brands.

Labour costs to replace shock absorbers

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. 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.

We’ve answered a few more common shock absorber FAQs below to help you understand your car’s needs.

How many shock absorbers are in a car?

Cars have four shock absorbers - one per each wheel. Each absorber also has a ‘strut.’ This connects the absorber to the suspension system. 

How do shock absorbers work?

Understanding how shock absorbers work can help you make informed decisions about maintaining or replacing them to ensure a safe and comfortable ride.

Shock absorbers are designed to convert the kinetic energy of the suspension into heat energy, which is then dissipated through the shock absorber's hydraulic fluid. This helps prevent excessive bouncing and oscillation, improving ride comfort and stability.

In addition to improving ride comfort, shock absorbers also help to enhance tyre contact with the road, which is essential for maintaining traction and improving handling, particularly during cornering and braking.

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 lifespan will significantly reduce to a few years.

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.

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.

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.

Shock absorber replacement costs - The outlook

Thankfully, replacing a car shock absorber is more straightforward than it seems. Always try to replace all of them together, or at least replace each pair at a time. When in doubt, ask a handful of garages for a quote to find the best price!

Bookmark this blog so you have the information in your pocket. Or keep exploring via the Bumper blog.

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. 

Look after your car and your bank balance by splitting the cost or repairs into monthly instalments, interest-free. 

Join the Bumper community and get access to the best care for you and your car. Choose a dependable dealership and split your repair bill into monthly chunks.

Author - Joseph Law

Joseph has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.