I am debating having a local shop replace the struts on my '05 S60 vs. doing it myself. I figure shop can do it for a reasonable price I will probably go that way. I've priced out whole assembly (Sachs) except the springs at FCP Euro for $578. Dealer quoted my $1150 which I thought was a serious ripoff.

How many hours is a rational quote from a shop to replace my struts?
Thanks.

 

Don't forget that the dealer is also making a profit on the parts. Dealerships are segmented and each department is responsible for a certain amount of overhead and has to justify its own existence. And OEM parts are always more expensive. Just because you can find a way to get it done cheaper does not make them a rip off.

As for raw labor, I would guess each side books for 1.5-2.0 hours or a total of 3-4 hours. Good independent shops usually price their labor at $80-90, so I would expect labor in the $240-360 range.

 

$1150 is about right for new struts, especially if that includes spring seats and an alignment.

Labor for the two is 2.5 hours I believe. Plus the alignment.

 

2.5 hours book labor sounds right to me. I've done both sides on an 850 in less than 3 hours at home. I have my own spring compressor and air ratchet which helps some... As for the parts, I found going OEM parts to be a good move - particularly on the 850s which tend to eat up non-OEM spring seats (maybe due to the winter roads here in CT). I've done both Bilstein and Boge/Sachs and actually liked the Sachs better. Depending on your mileage, you may also consider replacing the sway bar end links too (I upgraded my 850 to the IPD heavy duty end links as I also run the IPD sport sway bars - a great investment IMHO). Note an alignment is a must - unless you are planning to buy new tires soon...