Typical UK suspension prices
Shocks and springs are always replaced in pairs across an axle so the car sits and handles evenly. Prices assume independent garage labour at around £70 an hour.
| Job | Typical UK cost |
|---|---|
| Coil spring, one side | £150 to £280 |
| Front shock absorbers, pair | £250 to £500 |
| Rear shock absorbers, pair | £200 to £450 |
| Complete strut assembly, pair | £350 to £700 |
| Front wishbone or control arm, each | £150 to £350 |
| Anti-roll bar links, pair | £90 to £180 |
| Four-wheel alignment | £60 to £120 |
| Air suspension strut, per corner | £600 to £1,500 |
| Air suspension compressor | £500 to £1,200 |
What affects the cost
Conventional or air suspension
Coil-sprung suspension is comparatively cheap. Air suspension, common on Range Rovers, larger Audis and Mercedes, costs several times more per corner and often takes the compressor with it.
Seized and corroded fixings
On older or high-mileage cars, suspension bolts seize solid. Cutting and replacing them adds labour, which is why a garage may quote a range rather than a fixed price.
Alignment afterwards
Most suspension work disturbs the geometry. A four-wheel alignment afterwards protects your tyres and should be built into the quote.
Parts quality
Well-known brands such as Bilstein, Sachs and Monroe cost more than unbranded parts but ride better and last far longer, which matters on a car you are keeping.
Signs of worn suspension
- Knocking or clunking over speed bumps and potholes.
- The car continues to bounce after going over a bump.
- Uneven or feathered tyre wear on one edge.
- The car sits lower on one corner, or leans in corners more than it used to.
- An MOT advisory for a corroded spring, leaking damper or worn bush.
How to pay a fair price
Suspension quotes vary widely because parts brands do. Ask each garage which brand they are fitting and whether alignment is included. Bundling several worn items into one visit saves duplicated labour, because most of the time is spent getting to the parts.
Compare local quotesFrequently asked questions
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