Pontiac Repair: Struts, whell alignment, lbor

Question
I`ve been hearing a thumping sound for a while in the rear of my 2004 Grand Prix. A mechanic looked at it and said it needs new struts and an alignment costing about $900.00 The ride has been bumpier than usual. Do you think it`s worth getting this fixed? Is this price reasonable? Will I do more damage to something else if I don`t get it fixed?  Thanks,  Cliff

Answer
Hi Cliff:

If this car has a lot of miles on it or the struts are leaking then yes do it. If it has relativly low milage I would be leary of it needing struts and if so what type Original equipment struts or cheap struts? These cars they do not go that often. What does go bad is stablaizer bar links on the front and also the rear. Struts are not all that common. As for what will it hurt if indeed they are bad it will eventually cause abnormal tire wear. Because the tire is basically bouncing on the road like a basket ball. When and if you get this aligned do a 4 whell alignment On it The rear is adjustable and A true alignment takes into consideration the rear wheels as well. As for the price It seems a bit steep the lbor for struts is a couple of hours and the alignment is usually about 50.00 for a 2 wheel and 90 for a 4 wheel at least in my part of the world. Upstate NY. Good luck :}