How Much Is a New Suspension for a Honda Civic?

For most Honda Civics in the U.S., replacing the four shocks/struts with new parts and a wheel alignment typically costs about $900–$1,800 at an independent shop and $1,200–$2,400 at a dealer. A more comprehensive refresh that includes mounts, links, bushings, and worn control arms can run $1,800–$3,500. Performance models like the Civic Type R with adaptive dampers usually land around $2,500–$5,500+. Below is a detailed breakdown of what “new suspension” entails, what drives the price, and how to budget and save.

What “new suspension” means on a Honda Civic

“New suspension” can mean anything from replacing only the shock/strut units to a full overhaul of wear components. Understanding what’s included helps you compare quotes fairly.

• Shocks/struts and springs (dampers are the big-ticket wear items; springs are often reused unless sagged or corroded)
• Top mounts/bearings and dust boots (“mounts” quiet noise and allow strut rotation up front)
• Control arms and ball joints (front lower arms on many Civics contain the ball joint; rears use links/arms)
• Bushings (notably rear trailing arm bushings, a common Civic wear point)
• Sway-bar end links and bushings
• Alignment (required after most suspension work)

Shops may quote only dampers or a fuller package; make sure the scope matches your needs and budget.

Typical price ranges (USD)

Basic refresh: shocks/struts only, plus alignment

This is the most common job on a Civic showing bounce, leaks, or poor damping but with otherwise healthy arms and bushings.

• Parts: $400–$1,000 for all four corners (aftermarket like KYB/Monroe on the lower end; Honda OEM higher)
• Labor: 4.5–6.0 hours total, typically $500–$1,050 depending on shop rate and rust/corrosion
• Alignment: $100–$200 for a 4-wheel alignment
• Typical total: $900–$1,800 (independent) or $1,200–$2,400 (dealer)

Using complete “quick-strut” assemblies up front can reduce labor time but raises parts cost slightly.

Full refresh: dampers + mounts + links + common bushings/arms

If your Civic has high mileage or clunks/uneven tire wear, a fuller set of wear items may be sensible while the suspension is apart.

• Added parts: mounts/bearings, sway links, and select arms/bushings add $300–$1,000 in parts
• Added labor: typically +2–4 hours, $250–$700 depending on components and corrosion
• Typical total: $1,800–$3,500 for most non-performance Civics

This approach can restore ride/handling in one visit and reduce repeat alignment costs.

Performance and adaptive setups (Si, aftermarket coilovers, Type R)

Upgrades or performance variants can change the cost picture significantly.

• Mid-range coilovers (height-adjustable): $700–$1,500 parts; labor 3–5 hours; total $1,200–$2,500 incl. alignment
• Civic Si (fixed dampers): similar to standard Civic totals unless premium brands are chosen
• Civic Type R (2017–2021 FK8, 2023+ FL5) adaptive dampers: $1,600–$2,800 for four dampers alone; installed totals commonly $2,500–$5,500+

If you lower the car or change ride height materially, budget for alignment and potential ADAS calibration if required by the shop.

Part-by-part cost guide (common 2016–2021 Civic, non-Type R)

Below are typical U.S. street prices and labor times to help you decode line items on quotes. Prices vary by brand and region.

• Front struts: $175–$350 each aftermarket; $300–$450 OEM; 1.3–1.8 labor hours per side
• Rear shocks: $80–$180 each aftermarket; $160–$300 OEM; 0.6–1.0 labor hours per side
• Front top mounts/bearings: $35–$90 each; typically replaced with struts
• Springs (if needed): $80–$150 each; many shops reuse if in spec
• Sway-bar end links: $25–$60 each; 0.3–0.6 labor hours each
• Front lower control arm assemblies: $120–$250 each; 1.0–1.5 labor hours each
• Rear trailing arm bushing: $30–$80 each; 1.5–3.0 labor hours per side
• 4-wheel alignment: $100–$200

Later model years (2022–2025) are similar, though OEM parts often price slightly higher. Rust-belt vehicles may require extra time.

What affects the price most

These are the primary drivers behind the wide range you’ll see in estimates.

• Scope of work: dampers only vs. a full overhaul
• Model/trim: standard Civic vs. Si vs. Type R (adaptive dampers cost more)
• Parts choice: aftermarket (e.g., KYB, Monroe, Bilstein, Koni) vs. Honda OEM
• Labor rate: typically $110–$200/hour depending on region and shop type
• Corrosion/age: seized bolts and rust can add hours
• Alignment and ADAS: alignment is standard; some shops charge extra if ADAS calibration is required after suspension height changes

Ask for an itemized estimate so you can compare apples to apples between shops.

Example out-the-door scenarios

These ballpark scenarios can help you benchmark quotes for a typical U.S. market Civic.

• 2018 Civic EX: four dampers + front mounts + alignment — parts $560–$900, labor $540–$1,050, alignment $120–$180; total $1,220–$2,130
• 2015 Civic with clunks: dampers, mounts, sway links, rear trailing arm bushings, alignment — parts $800–$1,400, labor $800–$1,400; total $1,800–$3,000
• 2023 Civic Type R: four adaptive dampers + alignment — parts $1,600–$2,800, labor $600–$1,050, alignment $120–$180; total $2,320–$4,030 (more if mounts/links added)

Final pricing depends on brand selection and local labor rates; use these as reasonable ranges rather than quotes.

How to save and get it done right

With a bit of planning, you can control costs without compromising safety or ride quality.

• Replace in pairs (front or rear) or all four to keep handling balanced
• Ask about complete “quick-strut” assemblies to cut labor time on the fronts
• Choose reputable aftermarket if OEM pricing is high; prioritize mounts and bushings quality
• Bundle related wear items while it’s apart to avoid paying for multiple alignments
• Get two to three itemized quotes and confirm they include alignment
• In rust-prone areas, budget a contingency for seized hardware

Good shops will road-test, torque to spec, and provide alignment printouts; that’s worth paying for.

When your Civic likely needs suspension work

These symptoms commonly indicate it’s time to inspect or replace components.

• Bouncy ride, nose dive while braking, or poor rebound after bumps
• Oil weeping on shock/strut bodies
• Clunks over bumps or while turning (links, mounts, or bushings)
• Cupped/uneven tire wear or persistent alignment drift
• Rear-end wiggle on highway (often trailing arm bushings)

An inspection can pinpoint whether you need just dampers or a broader refresh.

Summary

Expect roughly $900–$1,800 for a Honda Civic’s new shocks/struts with alignment, $1,800–$3,500 for a full refresh of common wear items, and $2,500–$5,500+ for Type R adaptive setups. Actual totals hinge on scope, parts brand, labor rate, and corrosion. Insist on an itemized estimate, replace components in logical sets, and include a 4-wheel alignment to restore the Civic’s stable, predictable ride.

How expensive is it to replace a suspension?

Suspension repairs can cost as little as $150 or over $1,000, depending on the component. Shocks and struts are the most common suspension repairs, often costing $1,000 per wheel. Luxury vehicles tend to have higher suspension repair costs due to complex components.

Is replacing suspension worth it?

Replacing a vehicle’s suspension, specifically shocks and struts, is often a worthwhile investment, particularly if you plan to keep the car long-term. Worn suspension components can negatively impact safety, comfort, and vehicle performance. Replacing them can restore ride quality, improve handling, and potentially prevent further damage to other parts. 
This video explains the reasons why it’s worth replacing your car’s shocks and struts: 57sMicah MuzioYouTube · May 15, 2022
Here’s why replacing suspension is often a good idea:

• Improved Safety: A properly functioning suspension system is crucial for maintaining tire contact with the road, especially during braking and cornering. Worn shocks and struts can increase stopping distances and make it harder to control the vehicle. 
• Enhanced Comfort: A worn suspension can make for a rough and uncomfortable ride. Replacing it can significantly improve ride quality, making your driving experience smoother and more enjoyable. 
• Better Vehicle Performance: Worn suspension components can affect handling, steering responsiveness, and stability. Replacing them can restore the vehicle’s original performance and make it feel more responsive. 
• Preventing Further Damage: A faulty suspension can put extra stress on other components like tires, steering, and alignment, leading to more expensive repairs down the road. 
• Passing Safety Inspections: In some areas, a faulty suspension can cause a vehicle to fail a safety inspection. 

This video discusses the signs of worn shocks and struts and when you should consider replacing them: 59sRoyalty Auto ServiceYouTube · Jul 18, 2025
When to consider replacing:

• Rough or Bouncy Ride: If the car feels excessively bouncy or you feel every bump in the road, it’s a strong indicator that the suspension needs attention. 
• Uneven Tire Wear: If your tires are wearing unevenly, it could be a sign of suspension problems. 
• Difficulty Steering: Worn suspension components can affect steering responsiveness and make it harder to control the vehicle. 
• Visible Leaks: If you see fluid leaking from the shocks or struts, it’s a clear sign that they need to be replaced. 

In conclusion:
While the cost of suspension replacement can be significant, the benefits in terms of safety, comfort, and vehicle performance often outweigh the cost, especially if you plan to keep the car for a while. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s worth consulting with a mechanic to assess the condition of your suspension and determine the best course of action.

How much to replace a Honda Civic suspension?

The average cost for a Honda Civic Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $1,057 and $1,233.

How long does a Honda Civic suspension last?

between 50,000 and 100,000 miles
On average, Honda shocks and struts last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, but this lifespan can vary significantly based on several factors. Aggressive driving habits, such as hard braking or taking corners at high speeds, can lead to faster wear and tear.