How Long Does It Take to Replace the Rear Struts on Your Car?

When it comes to car maintenance and repairs, one of the key components that often needs attention is the rear struts. Also known as rear struts or rear shock absorbers, these parts play a crucial role in the overall performance and safety of your vehicle. Understanding the time it takes to replace these components can help you better plan your car repair processes. In this article, we'll explore the typical timeframes involved and what factors can influence the duration of the job.

What Are Rear Struts?

Rear struts are part of the suspension system and are responsible for supporting the weight of your vehicle and absorbing shock and vibrations. They are hydraulic assembly units, combining a shock absorber with a spring and a strut. Replacing a rear strut usually involves the repair or replacement of both the strut and the shock absorber. Unlike regular shock absorbers, struts are a more complex component that includes the spring within its assembly.

Factors Affecting the Time to Replace Rear Struts

The time it takes to replace the rear struts can vary based on several factors:

Make and Model of Your Vehicle: Different car models have different designs and configurations, which can affect the accessibility and complexity of the replacement process. Material of Struts: Modern vehicles often use composite or steel struts, which can differ in terms of installation time and tools required. Level of Service: Whether you're performing the task yourself or relying on a professional mechanic can also influence the duration. Total Number of Struts to Replace: If you are replacing the struts on both sides of the vehicle, the process will generally take longer than replacing just one strut. Condition of the Vehicle: The overall condition of the vehicle, including the state of other components, can affect the repair time.

Time Estimates for Replacing Rear Struts

In general, the time it takes to replace rear struts can vary from one to three hours. However, this time is typically split into two sides of the vehicle, meaning one to one and a half hours per side. To provide you with a more accurate estimate, it's essential to consider the following:

Replacing the Rear Strut Assembly: This typically involves replacing the entire strut assembly, which includes the shock absorber and spring. This operation usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours per side. Replacing the Rear Strut Cartridge: If you only need to replace the cartridge part of the strut, the process can be faster, taking around 30 to 45 minutes per side.

Preparing for the Job

To ensure a seamless replacement process, here are some steps you need to take before beginning the repair:

Check Your Owner's Manual: Consult your vehicle's owner's manual to gather detailed information about your car's specific strut design and the recommended repair procedure. Remove the Tire: You'll need to remove the tire from the wheel to access the strut. Use a lug wrench or an impact wrench to unscrew the lug nuts and carefully lift the tire off the vehicle. Access the Strut Support: With the tire removed, locate the strut support lug, followed by the steering knuckle, and then the strut assembly. The exact positioning and design may vary depending on your vehicle make and model. Pry Out the Strut Bolt: Use a pry bar or a similar tool to carefully remove the strut bolt, allowing you to adjust and remove the strut assembly. Install the New Strut: Place the new strut cartridge or full assembly into the fitting, ensuring it is properly positioned. Secure it with a spiral jack nut or a bolt, making sure it is fully tightened. Reinstall the Tire: Once the strut is properly installed, replace the tire on the vehicle, ensuring all lug nuts are tight and evenly torqued. Pump Up the Tire: Inflate the tire to the recommended PSI level, as stated in your owner's manual or strut installation guide.

Conclusion

Replacing rear struts can be a crucial part of maintaining the performance and safety of your vehicle. While the time it takes to perform this task can vary based on the specific factors mentioned above, the general timeframe is typically from 1 to 3 hours for both sides of the vehicle. Whether you're planning a DIY project or seeking professional assistance, understanding the process and expected time frame can help you prepare effectively.