mgh32971

Mechanic says that my rear struts are bad. He makes the claim that I will have to replace all 4 struts (that is the only way they can be purchased). The estimate is $750. This is for a 2000 Accord, 133k miles.

Questions:
1) Do I really have to replace all 4 struts, even though they indicated that only two were damaged?
2) Is this cost reasonable?
3) Can you explain struts; what they are, etc?

Thanks
Matt

webie

I think struts = shock absorbers, maybe someone else can expand on this. Anyways, I was also told by the Honda Dealer to replace all 4 struts and gave me a pricing of around $520.00 ($130ea) parts plus $280 labor.

1) I decided to replace all 4 because one(1) of my rear was heavily damaged and the right/front was also starting to fail. When I asked the same question of the replacement order the general consensus was to replace all four(4) or both rears or both fronts. Also you will recommend to have re-alignment when replacing struts.

2) I don't think so. I was able to buy online all (4) including other related parts (Stoppers/Dust Covers/Etc.) for around $460 including shipping. Shopping around I found that the common cost to change a strut on this model should be between $30-$50 each. I was quoted $100 by a local honda auto parts (not dealer) to replace all 4 and they usually charge $30 each. In the end a friend of told me that this was an easy procedure, as he has done it previously by himself. It just cost me $50 and 2 six packs of beer to replace all 4, and I learned on the process. It's not that difficult; just need the right tools.

3) I don't know how t explain, but here is a picture of the full set. Strut is #7.