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Complete, or “loaded,” strut assemblies continue to gain ground in the aftermarket—and for good reason. These assemblies include the new spring, upper mount, and all related hardware in one ready-to-install unit. For technicians and shop owners, they offer a clear path to a better repair, improved safety, and stronger profitability.

Most labour guides allocate about 0.3 hours—roughly 17 minutes—for a technician to compress the spring, disassemble the old unit, and build the new strut. At an $80 per hour labour rate, that works out to about $24 per strut on the repair order. Depending on workflow, tooling, and technician skill, those 17 minutes can be productive—or they can be a bottleneck.

Loaded struts eliminate that variable. Yes, they often cost about twice as much as a bare strut and mount, but the value proposition changes when you factor in the complete ride-restoring assembly and the time saved in the bay. Put yourself in the customer’s position: if you could choose a repair that brings the vehicle closer to new-car ride and handling, many would willingly pay a higher price for the better long-term outcome.

For shops, the math is straightforward. Selling a more complete part typically increases gross profit under standard parts-margin policies. And with no time spent on the “strut compressor waltz,” the vehicle leaves the bay faster, opening space for the next job.

There are also strong technical reasons to avoid reusing worn components. Upper strut mounts and bearings—built from layers of rubber, metal, and bearing assemblies—carry the vehicle’s weight while absorbing braking and acceleration torque. Over time, rubber hardens and loses its ability to isolate the suspension. Bearings can seize or bind, creating steering stiffness or noise.

Ride height is another critical factor. Weak or sagging springs can alter both camber and caster, causing steering pull, changes in steering effort or returnability, and premature or uneven tire wear. Installing a new strut with an aged spring often undermines the intended performance of the repair.

Shops are encouraged to fully explain the benefits of loaded struts when writing estimates. Even if a customer defers the repair, a clear inspection process and confident presentation often leave a lasting impression—bringing them back when they’re ready.

For more information, visit bproauto.com.