13 Best Shock Absorbers for your car (Review 2022)

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your shocks or replace worn ones, there are tons of options out there. Which best shock absorbers outperform the competition?

Though many brands offer great products, you can’t go wrong with KYB shocks. They have tons of performance benefits, are reasonably priced, and come with limited lifetime warranties. If they have an option that fits your vehicle, it truly is a no brainer.

In this article we’ll break down KYB shocks and other options, exploring the pros and cons of each so you can buy with confidence.

Best Shock Absorbers

 

Product Reviews

1. Bilstein 5100

If you’re looking for aftermarket shocks that upgrade your ride for both on-road and off-road applications, the Bilstein 5100 series is an outstanding choice.

They come with a limited lifetime warranty that protects against manufacturer defects, and if you’re using them for traditional on-road applications, they can last up to 100-thousand miles!

While this kit is more expensive than some of the other shocks we looked at, it’s a full set of four shocks, so you can upgrade your entire vehicle at once! It comes with all the washers, nuts, and bushings you’ll need to replace your shocks.

Fitment

• Fits 2005-2016 Ford F350

Pros

• Limited lifetime warranty
• Full set of 4 shocks
• Excellent performance upgrade for off-roading
• Provides replacement washers, nuts, and bushings

Cons

• Costly option

---

2. Monroe MA822

Monroe built these shocks to last year after year. They used all-weather fluid to reduce the amount of friction every time the shock extends or closes. Not only does this provide a smoother ride, but it also extends the service life of the shocks.

Furthermore, the hardened ground rods provide better performance and service life too! Monroe sells these shocks in a set, and when you break down the unit price, you’re getting a great deal.

These aren’t performance shocks, and you shouldn’t take them off-roading, but they do provide a smooth and enjoyable ride under normal conditions. They outperform OEM shocks in just about every category, and they have a similar cost too.

Fitment (Rear Shocks Only)

• 2000-2005 Buick Lesabre
• 2006-2011 Buick Lucerne
• 1997-2005 Buick Park Avenue
• 1995-1999 Buick Riviera
• 2006-2011 Cadillac DTS
• 2000-2005 Cadillac Deville
• 1998-2004 Cadillac Seville
• 1995-1999 OldsMobile Aurora
• 2001-2003 OldsMobile Aurora
• 2000-2005 Pontiac Bonneville

Pros

• Very affordable option for two shocks
• All-weather fluid improves ride comfort and shock durability
• Hardened ground rods for better performance and service life

Cons

• Not performance shocks – great for daily drivers, though!

---

3. Monroe 58620

These Monroe shocks have two distinct advantages over OEM shocks. First, they utilize all-weather fluid that reduces friction caused every time the shock extends or retracts. This gives you a smoother ride and extends the service life of the shock.

Furthermore, Monroe’s built-in valving automatically adjusts to your driving situation. Whether you’re traveling down a dirt road or hauling a trailer, the shocks will automatically adjust their stiffness and give you as smooth of a ride as possible.

These aren’t shocks for off-roading; they’re shocks for hauling. Whether you’re attaching trailers or throwing tons of weight in the back of your van, these shocks prevent your vehicle from sagging and respond to your conditions.

They’re a clear-cut upgrade over stock OEM shocks, but have a similar price tag, so you don’t have to break the bank to get a smoother ride. Monroe sells them as a pair, and you need to replace them together, so you don’t put too much stress on a single shock.

Keep in mind these shocks do not fit vehicles without rear ABS. Most vehicles have this feature, but you don’t want to purchase a part that won’t work with your vehicle, so make sure to double-check!

Fitment (Rear Shocks Only)

• 2000 Chrysler Grand Voyager
• 1995-2007 Chrysler Town and Country
• 2000-2003 Chrysler Voyager
• 1995-2007 Dodge Caravan
• 1995-2007 Dodge Grand Caravan
• 1995-2000 Plymouth Voyager
• 1995-2000 Plymouth Grand Voyager

Pros

• All-weather fluid reduces friction, improves performance, and extends service life
• Valving automatically adjusts to each situation to give you a smoother ride
• Affordably priced for two shocks
• Excellent performance upgrade for those hauling heavy loads

Cons

• Does not work with vehicles that don’t have rear ABS – most vehicles have this though

---

4. ACDelco 530-301

If you’re looking for your vehicle to feel just like it did the day it rolled off the assembly line, you want to use these shocks. They’re genuine OEM replacement parts, which means you’ll get a part the manufacturer formulated to work with your vehicle.

These shock absorbers come with a hardened chrome piston rod that gives you long-lasting performance and extends the component’s service life.

You can purchase these shocks individually, but you should always replace your shocks in pairs. They aren’t expensive, so you won’t have to spend a ton of money to get the set.

They look and feel just like the originals, so if you’re hoping for an upgrade, these shocks will leave you disappointed, but if you’re simply looking for a part to get the job done, these will do the trick.

They come with new bushings and washers, so you’ll have everything you need to replace your shocks to make them feel new!

Fitment (Front Shocks Only)

• 2002-2006 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500
• 1999-2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
• 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Classic
• 2000-2006 Chevrolet Suburban 1500
• 2000-2006 Chevrolet Tahoe 2000-2006
• 1999-2006 GMC Sierra 1500
• 2007 GMC Sierra 1500 Classic
• 2000-2006 GMC Yukon
• 2000-2006 GMC Yukon XL 1500

Pros

• Hardened chrome piston rod for better performance and long-lasting service life
• Very affordable and sold individually
• Comes with new bushings and washers for easy install
• True OEM replacement

Cons

• No performance upgrades – these shocks will work just like the stock ones

---

5. Monroe 34690

These Monroe replacement shocks have two distinctive features that set them apart from the rest. First, they have a built-in 2″ reserve tube for more consistent performance. This reserve tube keeps everything flowing smoothly no matter how quick or slow the shock needs to extend or retract.

Second, these shocks are nitrogen charged for an added performance boost. Not only do both of these features give you a smoother ride, but they also extend the service life of your shocks. The smoother they operate, the longer they’ll work.

These shocks work just like the OEM shocks, but they tend to last a little longer. Furthermore, they come with a similar price tag, meaning you don’t have to spend extra money to get a longer-lasting part.

Keep in mind these replacement shocks work just like the OEM ones. You shouldn’t purchase these to upgrade your stock shocks because you won’t notice any difference in performance from your original OEM shocks.

Fitment (Rear Shocks Only)

• 2001-2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 HD
• 2005-2006 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 HD
• 2007 Chevrolet Silverado Classic
• 1999-2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
• 2001-2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD
• 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Classic
• 2001-2003 GMC Sierra 1500 HD
• 2005-2006 GMC Sierra 1500 HD
• 2007 GMC Sierra 1500 HD Classic
• 1999-2004 GMC Sierra 2500
• 2001-2010 GMC Sierra 2500 HD
• 2007 GMC Sierra 2500 HD Classic

Pros

• 2-inch reserve tube for more consistent performance
• Nitrogen charged for smoother performance
• Affordable price tag and sold individually
• Outstanding performance – works just like OEM

Cons

• No performance upgrades – these shocks will work just like the stock ones

---

6. ACDelco 580-435

ACDelco manufacturers OEM replacement parts and that fact shouldn’t be understated. There’s an advantage to getting what the manufacturer recommends, especially if your vehicle is still under warranty.

Aftermarket parts will often void your warranties; OEM parts won’t. But even if your vehicle isn’t under warranty anymore, OEM parts give you a little extra peace of mind. ACDelco builds these shocks to manufacturer standards, and the manufacturer has tested and approved them for their vehicles.

But if you’re looking for a way to upgrade your suspension system, OEM parts and these shocks aren’t the way to go. Furthermore, these shocks are more expensive than many other options.

Since you should always replace your shocks in pairs, you’re going to have to spend a decent amount of cash if you’re looking to use these shocks.

Fitment (Front Shocks Only)

• 2008-2014 Cadillac Escalade
• 2008-2014 Cadillac Escalade ESV
• 2008-2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT
• 2008-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche
• 2008-2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
• 2008-2014 Chevrolet Suburban 1500
• 2011 Chevrolet Suburban 2500
• 2008-2014 Chevrolet Tahoe
• 2008-2013 GMC Sierra 1500
• 2008-2014 GMC Yukon
• 2008-2014 GMC Yukon XL 1500

Pros

• OEM replacement gives you peace of mind and meets warranty standards
• Works just as well as your original shocks

Cons

• High price tag for an individual shock
• No performance upgrades – these shocks will work just like the stock ones

---

7. Monroe Shocks & Struts Reflex 911262

Monroe builds shocks to last – these shocks are no different. Monroe fills these shocks with nitrogen for smoother performance, which extends the overall service life and gives you a more comfortable ride.

Furthermore, it comes with acceleration sensitive dampening (ASD) technology that adjusts to your driving conditions and smooths out your ride. Full displaced valving adjusts to each vehicle for maximum comfort.

Finally, these replacement shocks have all-weather fluid to reduce friction, which produces a smoother ride and extends the shocks’ service life. For shocks with so many performance benefits, they don’t cost a ton. Make sure you buy two so you can replace the set together.

Keep in mind these are not off-road performance shocks. They’re great for a daily driver, and they’ll provide a smooth and comfortable ride, but that’s the extent of their usefulness.

Fitment (Rear Shocks Only)

• 2004-2010 Ford 150
• 2006-2008 Lincoln Mark LT

Pros

• Affordably priced and sold per shock
• Nitrogen filled for smoother performance
• Comes with acceleration sensitive dampening technology for a smoother ride
• Full displaced valving tuned to each vehicle provides maximum comfort
• All-weather fluid reduces friction, provides a smoother ride, and extends service life

Cons

• Not designed for off-road applications – great for daily drivers though

---

8. KYB 565104

KYB produces high-end performance shocks that are among the best in the industry. These shocks meet that high standard. They provide 40 percent more dampening than OEM shocks, giving you a much smoother ride from the first day you install them.

Additionally, they have a zinc-coated piston ring and a dust boot that helps keep any dirt or debris out of the shock. In addition to their superior performance, this makes them perfect for off-road applications.

Whether you’re looking for off-road shocks or just need them for your daily drive, these shocks can handle it. Furthermore, they give you a smooth ride even if you’re hauling or towing.

The best part of buying a KYB shock is they offer a limited lifetime warranty they stand by. If there are any manufacturing defects or if they fail prematurely, KYP will replace the shocks free of charge.

The only downside to a KYB shock is they are slightly more expensive upfront than regular OEM shocks. But since they offer superior performance and much longer service life, they end up earning their money a few times over.

Fitment (Rear Shocks Only)

• 1999-2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
• 2001-2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD
• 1999-2004 GMC Sierra 2500
• 2001-2010 GMC Sierra 2500 HD
• 2001-2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 HD
• 2005-2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 HD
• 2001-2003 GMC Sierra 1500 HD
• 2005-2006 GMC Sierra 1500 HD
• 2007 GMC Sierra 1500 HD Classic
• 2007 GMC Sierra 2500 HD Classic
• 2002-2019 Dodge Ram 1500

Pros

• 40 percent more dampening than OEM shock absorbers
• Perfect for off-road, hauling, and daily driving applications
• Zinc coated piston ring and dust boot helps seal shocks for off-road use
• Limited lifetime warranty protects against manufacturer defects

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than OEM shocks and sold per shock

---

9. KYB KG54317

These KYB shocks provide a wide array of benefits compared to a Toyota 4Runner’s OEM shocks. They provide 25 percent more dampening and give you 25 percent more control of your vehicle while you’re driving. They improve steering, comfort, and even braking performance.

KYB utilizes an air-free hydraulic shock that eliminates all fade in conjunction with a high-pressure design that improves performance and vehicle control. Furthermore, they use nitrogen gas for smoother performance, which gives you a smoother ride and extends the shocks’ service life.

All KYB shocks come with a limited lifetime warranty that covers manufacturer defects and premature part failure. The best part is you can get all these features for an affordable price compared to OEM shocks.

Better performance, a low-price tag, and longer service life? What’s not to love!

Fitment (Rear Shocks Only)

• 1996-2002 Toyota 4Runner

Pros

• Provides 25 percent more dampening than OEM shocks
• High-pressure design gives up to 25 percent more control of your vehicle while driving
• Air free hydraulic shock absorber eliminates all fade
• Limited lifetime warranty protects against manufacturer defects
• Affordable price and sold per shock
• Uses nitrogen gas for smoother performance

Cons

• None – this is a clear upgrade for a Toyota 4Runner – these are the shocks you want!

---

10. KYB KG5458

Why settle for OEM shocks if you can get a significant performance upgrade for the same price! That’s precisely what these KYB performance shocks provide. They improve both dampening and control of your vehicle by 25 percent, which gives you both better comfort and safety!

The performance benefits don’t stop there, though. They also help with steering and braking, making these shocks one of the most affordable ways to upgrade your vehicle.

They utilize a high-pressure design for instant feedback and better stability while driving. Moreover, the use of nitrogen gas for smoother compression and extension of the shocks creates a smooth ride and extends the service life of the shocks.

With KYB shocks, you don’t need to worry about getting a dud either. They offer a limited lifetime warranty that protects against any manufacturer defects or premature part failure. If you’re looking for shocks and these fit your vehicle, look no further.

Fitment (Front Shocks Only)

• 1985-1989 Chevrolet Astro
• 1990-2005 Chevrolet Astro (RWD Only)
• 1971-1975 Chevrolet Bel Air
• 1981 Chevrolet Bel Air
• 1971-1972 Chevrolet Biscayne
• 1971-1996 Chevrolet Caprice
• 1971-1985 Chevrolet Impala
• 1994-1996 Chevrolet Impala
• 1997-2004 Dodge Dakota (RWD Only)
• 1999-2003 Dodge Durango (RWD Only)
• 1993-2002 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor
• 1992 Ford Crown Victoria Sedan
• 1983-1986 Ford LTD Crown Victoria
• 1986 Ford Crown Victoria LX
• 1985-2005 GMC Safari (RWD Only)
• 1982-1989 Lincoln Town Car
• 1983-2002 Mercury Grand Marquis
• 1985-1995 Toyota Pickup

Pros

• 25 percent more dampening than OEM shocks
• Uses nitrogen gas for smoother performance
• Increase control of your vehicle by up to 25 percent
• High-pressure gas design provides instant feedback and extra control
• Limited lifetime warranty protects against manufacturer defects
• Affordable price tag and sold per shock

Cons

• None! These are great shocks if they fit your vehicle!

---

11. KYB 344088

These KYB shocks mimic the design of Jeep’s OEM shocks for better performance right out of the box. They take what the OEM shocks offer and take it to another level. The vehicle specific dampening valves provide better body and control and improve your steering response – even better than stock shocks.

Furthermore, they use a Teflon coated piston band for a tighter seal that extends the shock’s service life. These shocks are clear upgrades over the OEM options, but they have a similar cost.

They use nitrogen and a chrome-plated piston for smoother performance to enhance your ride’s comfort and help the shock’s last longer.

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your shocks or simply replace worn-out ones, these are the shocks you want to take your vehicle to the next level. KYB shocks provide better comfort, better performance, and longer service life, which all adds up to a great buy.

Fitment (Front Shocks Only)

• 1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee
• 1986-1992 Jeep Comanche
• 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee
• 1993 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
• 1984-1990 Jeep Wagoneer

Pros

• Vehicle specific dampening valves for better body control and improved steering response
• Teflon coated piston band for a better seal and longer service life
• Ultra-affordable and sold per shock
• Utilizes OEM design for better performance
• Limited lifetime warranty protects against manufacturer defects

Cons

• No cons – these are a clear upgrade over OEM shocks

---

12. KYB 344480

KYB took the time to develop a shock that perfectly fits the Toyota Sienna and mimics the OEM design. They utilize vehicle specific dampening valves for a more responsive feel, better body control, and improved steering response.

They have a Teflon coated piston band for better sealing that extends the shock absorbers’ service life, especially if you’re using them for off-road applications.

Furthermore, the triple chrome-plated piston rods and nitrogen-filled chambers provide a smoother ride and extend your new shocks’ service life. Of course, with the limited lifetime warranty that comes with KYB shocks, you won’t have to worry about them wearing out prematurely.

The warranty protects against premature part wear and manufacturer defects. While many KYB shocks are low priced, these shocks are on the more expensive side compared to OEM shocks. However, between the performance benefits and the longer service life, they’re well worth the cost.

Fitment (Rear Shocks Only)

• 2004-2019 Toyota Sienna (AWD Only)
• 2005-2010 Toyota Sienna (FWD Only)
• 2014-2019 Toyota Sienna (FWD Only)
• 2011-2013 Toyota Sienna (Engine Package: L4 2.7L 2672cc 163cid FWD)
• 2011-2013 Toyota Sienna (Engine Package: V6 3.5L 3456cc FWD)

Pros

• Triple chrome plated piston rods for better performance and reduced wear
• Vehicle specific dampening valves for better body control and improved steering response
• Teflon coated piston band for a better seal and longer service life
• Limited lifetime warranty protects against manufacturer defects

Cons

• A little more expensive and sold per shock – but the long service life and increased performance helps offset the cost

---

13. Rancho RS9000XL

If you’re looking for a genuine performance shock, Rancho delivers. They utilize nine position tuning technology that adapts to your driving conditions and switches to one of nine different performance standards. This gives you maximum comfort and performance no matter what you drive.

Rancho shocks utilize nitrogen gas for smoother performance, and these shocks come with a 2.75-ich reserve tube for better handling while towing or hauling. Furthermore, they have a chrome-plated piston rod for smoother extending and retracting.

Finally, these shocks have polyurethane bushings that enhance the performance of the shock further. Like KYB shocks, Rancho shocks come with a limited lifetime warranty that protects against manufacturer defects.

However, compared to KYB or OEM shocks, Rancho shocks are almost double the price. They are high-quality shocks, but they aren’t cheap.

Fitment

Check Amazon or GoRancho.com – vehicle listing not available

Pros

• Nine position tuning technology for better performance
• Nitrogen gas charged for smoother performance
• 2.75-inch reserve tube for more efficient towing/hauling in tough conditions
• Chrome-plated piston rod for smooth and long-lasting performance
• Polyurethane bushings enhance shock performance
• Limited lifetime warranty protects against manufacturer defects

Cons

• Expensive option and sold per shock

---

Buyer’s Guide

Shocks are an essential part of your vehicle. That’s why it’s vital to buy the right set of shocks the first time. We know you have questions. That’s why we addressed some of the most common ones here.

How Long Do Shocks Last?

Most OEM shocks last about 50,000 miles, but some aftermarket shocks can last much longer – sometimes up to 100,000 miles!

You’ll start to feel changes in your vehicle’s performance and comfort as your shocks begin to wear down. But if you don’t know what you’re looking for, there is an easy way to test your shocks.

Simply go to a corner of your vehicle and push down until your vehicle sags a little. From there, let go of your vehicle. Your vehicle should rise back up and settle into its natural position. If your vehicle bounces instead of going straight back to its final position, you need to replace your shocks.

How to Pick the Right Shocks

There are two things you need to do when picking out your shocks. The first is to make sure they fit your vehicle. While we took the time to highlight the fitment of the shocks we reviewed here, Amazon also allows you to check the fitment directly on the product page.

Before making a purchase, always make sure the shocks you order fit your vehicle. You will also need to determine what kind of shocks you need.

Do you plan on taking your vehicle off the road and into the country? Are you hauling large amounts of weight from one location to another? How about towing? You need to consider all of these things before you pick out a set of shocks.

Performance shocks cost more than daily drivers, but they also last longer and can handle more.

Always Replace in Pairs

It’s crucial to replace all the shocks on the same axle together. Your shocks work together, and they fail together. If one shock isn’t pulling its weight, it puts undue stress on the other side.

If you replace one shock at a time, you’ll suffer from performance issues, and your shocks will wear out prematurely.

Are Shocks Universal?

Absolutely not. You might think as long as the shocks are the right size, you’re good to go. This isn’t true. Not only are the mounting bolts likely different, but manufacturers construct shocks to handle the weight of a specific vehicle.

Even if you can get the wrong shocks on the vehicle, if they aren’t powerful enough to handle the vehicle’s weight, they won’t bounce back like they’re supposed to. Conversely, if they’re too powerful for the vehicle, it might not sag at all!

What are Performance Shocks?

Performance shocks are shocks that can handle more than everyday driving conditions. Whether you’re looking to take your vehicle to the track or off into the wilderness, you need shocks that can handle it.

If you try off-roading or racing with OEM shocks, you’ll end up blowing out the shocks prematurely. Performance shocks can handle the extra stress these activities place on them.

While they’ll still wear out quicker on a dirt road than they will on the pavement, they won’t overheat or blow out the first or second time out there!

Summary

If your shocks are starting to wear down, you have more to worry about than just a comfortable ride. Shocks affect your vehicle’s handling, steering, and even braking. That’s why it’s essential to replace your shocks when they start to wear down and ensure you get the right ones.

Luckily with a comprehensive review like this, you don’t have anything to worry about. Find the shocks that fit your vehicle and buy with confidence!