I have a 2002 Tahoe LT with Autoride, when getting tires replaced I noticed one front and one rear shock were leaking, replacement quote was approx $550 each. Does a leaking shock need to be replaced ASAP? Do they need to be replaced in pairs? Do the Monroe shocks at around $250 do the job? Is the replacement as simple as unbolting and replacing each shock?

Hi.

leaking shocks should definately be replaced ASAP as worn shocks can seriously affect handling and braking.
if one front and one back are leaking, then i would recommend changing all four, as they were all fitted at the same time, and if two are gone, i would consider the other two highly suspect.

i am not sure what the autoride system actually entail, but if they are fairly standard shock absorbers, then any compatable shocks should do the same job, monroe are a particularly good company and make very reliable shock units.
a motor factors shoujld be able to give you a better idea of what is compatable, and should be able to advise on fitting. as long as the units do not have outside springs fitting should be quite straight forward. it may be fiddly, and tight in pplaces, but basically straightforward.

hope this helps

Hello, my name is Shaun. I will do my best to help you out with your problem. As far as your shocks needing to be replaced ASAP, i would say it's not an emergency. Worn shocks will result in a pretty bouncy ride, and if let go long enough, could result in irregular tire wear, but your truck won't fall apart if you don't change them today. Ultimately, the spring is what holds your truck in the air, the shock is just there to absorb impact and make your ride a little more comfortable. They also help in cornering, so expect a little bit of over-steer, as your truck will roll more quickly in tight turns. The shocks should be replaced in pairs, as different shocks have different ride qualities. (i.e both fronts, then both backs.) The Monroe shocks are okay, but they don't last quite as long as a higher end shock. At the price they quoted, you could buy a higher-end shock, do the work yourself, and still save a ton of money. And yes, it is basically as simple as unbolting the old shock and replacing it with the new. My advice to you would be to purchase a Haynes manual for your truck when you purchase the shocks. This will give you step-by-step instructions to change the shocks and will also be a valuable asset should other problems arise. Hope this helped you out, and if you have any more in-depth questions, feel free to reply to this answer and i will get back to you. Have a great day!