If you’ve ever felt your Ford Escape riding rough or noticed unusual noises coming from the suspension, it might be time to consider replacing the struts. Struts play a crucial role in your vehicle’s suspension system, helping with everything from stability to ride quality. However, like any part of your car, struts wear out over time and need replacing. Understanding the Ford Escape strut replacement cost can help you budget for this repair and avoid any surprises when you visit the mechanic.
This guide will walk you through the costs, factors influencing the price, and provide an estimate for various Ford Escape models, from the 2007 Ford Escape to the more recent 2018 Ford Escape. Whether you’re tackling this replacement yourself or taking your car to a professional, this article will give you the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.
What is a Strut and Why Does It Matter?
Before diving into the costs, let’s break down what a strut actually does in your Ford Escape. A strut is an essential component of the suspension system, typically found in front-wheel-drive vehicles like the Ford Escape. It serves two main purposes:
- Absorbing shocks – The strut helps absorb bumps and vibrations from the road, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.
- Supporting the vehicle’s weight – It also helps support the weight of the vehicle, ensuring proper alignment and handling.
Over time, the struts will wear out and lose their ability to perform these functions. When that happens, you’ll start noticing issues such as poor handling, a bouncy ride, or even loud clunking sounds when driving over bumps. Replacing the struts is crucial to maintaining the safety and comfort of your vehicle.
“If your Escape is bouncing like a boat, it’s time for new struts. Proper suspension maintenance not only improves ride quality but also extends the life of your tires and steering components.”
— Ryan Caldwell, Senior Automotive Technician
Ford Escape Strut Replacement Cost Breakdown
The cost of Ford Escape strut replacement varies significantly depending on several factors, including the model year, the mechanic you choose, and whether you’re replacing both the front and rear struts. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere between $300 and $1,200 for a complete replacement, but let’s break it down further:
Labor Costs
Labor is a significant portion of the overall cost to replace Ford Escape struts. The time required to replace the struts can vary depending on your model year. For most Ford Escape models, labor typically runs between $150 and $400. Labor costs depend on the hourly rate of your mechanic and how long the job takes, which usually ranges from 1 to 4 hours.
Parts Costs
The cost of parts plays a big role in the total price of strut replacement. Ford Escape struts range in price from $100 to $300 per strut, depending on whether you’re purchasing aftermarket or OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts. Higher-end parts, like those from well-known brands or the original Ford components, tend to cost more.
Ford Escape Strut Replacement Costs by Model Year
Now, let’s break down the Ford Escape strut replacement cost by model year. Understanding the variations between each model can help you plan accordingly and know what to expect when you head to the mechanic.
2007 Ford Escape Strut Replacement Cost
For a 2007 Ford Escape, the cost to replace the struts typically falls between $400 and $750 for both the front and rear struts. Labor and parts are priced lower for older models, but you might still encounter some additional fees for parts that are more difficult to find.
2011 Ford Escape Strut Replacement Cost
A 2011 Ford Escape typically costs around $450 to $850 for a full strut replacement. The price is a bit higher than the 2007 model due to the increased complexity of newer vehicles. Front struts usually cost between $100 and $200 each, while rear shocks can cost about $50 to $100 each.
2012 Ford Escape Strut Replacement Cost
For the 2012 Ford Escape, expect to pay anywhere from $450 to $900 for a complete strut replacement. The prices are fairly similar to the 2011 model, with struts costing about $120 to $250 per strut.
2013 Ford Escape Strut Replacement Cost
The 2013 Ford Escape sees a slight increase in price due to its more refined suspension system. Strut replacement costs for this model typically range from $500 to $950 for both front and rear struts.
2014 Ford Escape Strut Replacement Cost
A 2014 Ford Escape replacement is in a similar range, around $500 to $1,000. You may also be looking at slightly more expensive parts due to the model’s added features and technology. This is a more common repair, and if you choose to go with OEM parts, expect to pay a premium.
2016 Ford Escape Strut Replacement Cost
For the 2016 Ford Escape, you’re looking at a cost range of $500 to $1,100. Since this model includes more advanced suspension features, the parts themselves tend to be more expensive, and labor may also be on the higher end of the spectrum.
2017 Ford Escape Strut Replacement Cost
In 2017, Ford introduced some changes to the Escape’s suspension system. As a result, strut replacement costs range from $500 to $1,100. Labor costs could be a bit higher, as mechanics may need to work with newer suspension designs.
2018 Ford Escape Strut Replacement Cost
For the 2018 Ford Escape, the replacement cost tends to be the highest, ranging from $550 to $1,200. As the newest model on this list, it features more advanced struts and suspension systems, which can increase both part and labor prices.
Front vs. Rear Strut Replacement Costs
When it comes to replacing the struts in your Ford Escape, it’s important to know whether you need to replace both the front and rear struts or just one set. While both front and rear struts contribute to the overall ride quality, the Ford Escape front strut replacement cost tends to be higher. This is because the front struts are typically more involved in the overall suspension system.
On average, replacing the front struts can cost between $300 and $600 for parts and labor, while rear shock replacement costs are generally between $150 and $400.
If both sets of struts are worn out, it’s usually a good idea to replace them together. Doing so will improve overall ride quality and handling, and it’s often more cost-effective to replace them all at once rather than splitting the job into two separate repairs.
DIY vs. Professional Strut Replacement
If you have mechanical experience, you might be wondering whether replacing your Ford Escape struts yourself could save you some money. While it’s certainly possible to do a DIY Ford Escape strut replacement, it’s important to be aware that this job requires specialized tools, as well as the knowledge of suspension systems.
DIY Costs: If you opt to replace your struts yourself, expect to spend between $200 and $600 for the parts alone, depending on the year and type of struts you choose. However, you’ll need to factor in the cost of any tools you might need to purchase, like a spring compressor.
Professional Replacement: For those who aren’t comfortable performing the replacement, professional repair shops charge between $400 and $1,200, depending on the vehicle year and whether you choose aftermarket or OEM parts. Mechanics also have access to specialized equipment, which can make the job safer and quicker.
Conclusion
The Ford Escape strut replacement cost can vary widely depending on the model year, labor, and parts you choose. Whether you’re driving a 2007 Ford Escape or a 2018 Ford Escape, it’s essential to understand the factors that influence the cost and how to choose between professional and DIY options.
In general, you should budget around $400 to $1,200 for a full strut replacement, depending on your vehicle’s age and the specific repairs needed. If you’re looking to replace both the front and rear struts, expect to pay on the higher end of that range.
No matter what, replacing your Ford Escape struts will enhance your vehicle’s handling and comfort. Keep an eye out for signs that your struts are wearing out, such as a rough ride or unusual noises, and get the replacement done sooner rather than later to keep your Ford Escape running smoothly.
For those wondering, “How much does it cost to replace Ford Escape strut?” now you have the answer! Whether you go with OEM parts or aftermarket options, knowing the costs involved will help you make an informed decision. Happy driving!
