Originally Posted By: tony1679
Well, this is why I turn to BITOG for advice...
$300 for swapping assemblies = unacceptable. Got it.
I didn't spend much time shopping for this option, I was more focused on the whole package. It doesn't help when I have never put shocks or struts on ANY vehicle before, because I've never kept one or wanted to keep one long enough. So the crash course continues...
On a side note, what needs to be replaced and what should be re-used? I'm assuming at least the spring can be re-used. Considering it is creaking, I presume any rubber parts should be replaced.
This isn't something I've ever looked to pay a shop to do, but I can't imagine that anyone would charge you more than $25 per strut assembly.
Exactly what parts need to be replaced depends on the car in question. On most vehicles there's a rubber piece that sits between the spring and the spring seat on the strut that's a good idea to replace (typically called "insulators"). There's a bearing at the top of the strut that probably needs to be replaced. Some cars have rubber strut tops between the top of the spring and the chassis of the car that should be inspected or replaced. Then there's the plastic piece that hangs over the exposed portion of the strut shaft, which is occasionally a single piece integrated with the upper rubber insulator.
Your best bet is to look at an exploded diagram of the suspension assembly if you can find one. Autozone might have one for your car, I know they do for my Camry, which has been useful in identifying exactly what I need to buy before tearing into the car.
Also take care to identify any single use nuts, stretch bolts, or crush washers that might be in there.