Hood Lift Support Shocks Repair Cost Guide
Here's what you can expect to pay for hood lift support shock repairs at our shop (labor rate: $125/hour):
Basic Replacement
Time Required:0.5 - 1 hour
Labor Cost:$62.50 - $125
Parts Cost:$30 - $80 per shock
Total Estimated Cost:$92.50 - $205
Note: Most vehicles require two hood struts for proper operation.
Complex Replacement
Time Required:1 - 1.5 hours
Labor Cost:$125 - $187.50
Parts Cost:$50 - $150 per shock
Total Estimated Cost:$175 - $337.50
Complex replacements may be required for luxury vehicles or cases where mounting brackets need replacement.
Factors That Can Affect Cost:
- Vehicle make and model
- OEM vs. aftermarket parts
- Condition of mounting brackets
- Additional repairs needed
Important:These are estimated costs. Actual pricing may vary based on your specific vehicle and any additional repairs needed. We always provide a detailed quote before beginning any work.
Hood Lift Support Shock Replacement Guide
Time Required:15-30 minutes
Difficulty Level:Easy
Tools Needed:
- Flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool
- Safety glasses
- Helper (recommended)
- Pliers (may be needed for stubborn clips)
Safety Precautions:
IMPORTANT:Always ensure the hood is properly supported during replacement to prevent injury. Never work under an unsupported hood.
Step-by-Step Replacement Procedure:
1. Prepare the Vehicle
- Park on level ground
- Open the hood fully
- Have a helper hold the hood or use a prop rod for support
2. Locate the Hood Struts
- Hood struts are located on both sides of the engine compartment
- They connect from the hood to the vehicle's frame
3. Remove Old Struts
- Locate the mounting clips at both ends of each strut
- Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry open the metal retaining clips
- Gently pull the strut away from the ball stud mount
- Repeat for both ends of the strut
4. Install New Struts
- Compare new struts to old ones to ensure correct replacement
- Position new strut with the cylinder body facing up
- Push the socket end onto the ball studs until they click into place
- Ensure retaining clips are fully secured
5. Test Operation
- Carefully release hood support
- Test hood operation several times
- Verify smooth operation and proper hold at full extension
Common Issues and Tips:
- Always replace struts in pairs for even support
- If clips are damaged, replace them with new ones
- Ensure proper orientation - most struts are marked with "body side" or "hood side"
- Clean mounting points before installation
Note:While this is a general guide, specific vehicles may have slightly different procedures. Always consult your vehicle's manual for model-specific instructions.
Need professional help Our certified technicians are ready to assist with your hood strut replacement needs.
Understanding Hood Lift Support Shocks
What Are Hood Lift Support Shocks
Hood lift support shocks, also known as hood struts or gas springs, are hydraulic or gas-filled devices that help lift and hold your vehicle's hood in an open position. These components are typically installed on both sides of the hood and work in pairs to provide balanced support.
What Do Hood Lift Support Shocks Do
- Effortless Hood Operation:They reduce the effort needed to lift your vehicle's heavy hood by providing assisted lifting power.
- Safety Support:They securely hold the hood in an open position, preventing accidental closure while you're working on your engine.
- Controlled Movement:They ensure smooth, controlled hood movement during both opening and closing operations.
How Do They Work
Hood lift supports contain pressurized gas (usually nitrogen) and oil within a sealed cylinder. When you begin to lift your hood, the gas pressure helps push the internal piston, providing the lifting force. This mechanism makes it possible to easily lift and hold heavy hoods with minimal effort.
Signs You Need Replacement:
- Hood becomes difficult to lift or won't stay up
- Visible sagging when hood is open
- Visible fluid leaks or damage to the struts
- Uneven hood operation
Benefits of Quality Hood Lift Supports:
- Enhanced safety during engine maintenance
- Improved convenience when accessing engine bay
- Protection against sudden hood closure
- Long-lasting performance with proper maintenance
Common Signs of Failing Hood Lift Support Shocks
Hood Lift Support Shocks: Signs of Failure and Maintenance Guide
Common Signs of Hood Lift Support Failure:
1. Slow or Uneven Hood Operation
When your hood struts begin to fail, you may notice the hood opens more slowly than usual or descends too quickly when closing. This is often one of the first warning signs.
2. Hood Won't Stay Up
If your hood won't remain in the fully open position or gradually drops on its own, this is a clear indication that the gas-charged supports have lost their pressure.
3. Visible Fluid Leaks
Look for signs of oil or fluid on the shock body. Any visible leakage indicates the seal has failed and the support needs replacement.
4. Rust or Corrosion
Rust on the shaft or body of the support can lead to seal damage and eventual failure. Regular inspection can catch this early.
Maintenance Schedule:
Typical Lifespan:
Hood lift supports typically last 4-8 years, depending on:
- Climate conditions
- Frequency of use
- Vehicle storage conditions
Recommended Inspection Schedule:
- Visual inspection every 6 months
- Functional test annually
- Replace in pairs when one fails
Preventive Maintenance:
While hood lift supports don't require specific maintenance, keeping them clean and free from debris can extend their life. If you live in a coastal or high-salt environment, regular cleaning can prevent premature corrosion.
Note: For safety reasons, always use a proper hood prop rod when working under the hood if your lift supports show any signs of weakness.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
