New shocks on my Explorer

[WhateverItTakes]

Mechanic recommended getting new shocks on my Explorer. Can somebody please give me an idea on how much these should cost? His quote sounded high to me, but I've never replaced shocks before. All 4 need replacing.

 

[BigWill]

Shocks can run from 10 bucks to 100 bucks, or more, each. A generic shock will run about 25 bucks for that car. Did he offer you a specific brand/type?

Installation shouldn't be more than 50 bucks or so for all 4. A lot of chain shops run specials, free installation with shock purchase, etc.

Also, if you have any mechanical skills at all, you can do this yourself. It is easy.

 

[accuratehorn]

What year Explorer? Are they shocks, or are they struts? The strut type is more labor, because the spring has to be compressed off the strut to replace it. A lot of vehicles have struts on the front, and regular shocks on the back, and some have four struts now.
Also, I don't know how long Explorer shocks last, as I have a Honda/Toyota shop, but Honda struts/shocks usually last well over 100k before the car needs them. Many Firestone, QuickLube type places always tell car owners they need new shocks, whether they need them or not. This is how they pay for the cheap oil change you came in for-it is called upselling. Nobody is supposed to leave until you have spent $500. Every car always needs an air filter, also, despite the owner's book saying to change it every 30k during your maintenance service.