The Ultimate Shock Absorber Buying Guide

Frustrated due to an uncomfortable and bumpy ride? You have just one component to blame and that&#;s the shock absorbers in your vehicle. From making your ride miserable to impacting handling performance, broken shocks are a nuisance. Replacing them can be even harder because of the wide variety of products available in the market. This guide will make your shock or strut buying experience hassle-free and keep you informed so you get the best buy for your buck and match shocks to your exact needs.

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1. What Are Shock Absorbers And Why Do I Need Them?

2. What Are The Types Of Shock Absorbers?

3. What Should I Consider Before Buying Shock Absorbers?

4. What Are The Top Brands Of Shock Absorbers I Can Choose?

5. What Are The Symptoms Of Failing Shock Absorbers I Should Know About?

2

What Are The Types Of Shock Absorbers?

Shock absorbers are integral suspension system components that dictate many important suspension and vehicle characteristics. This is why they can be classified based on many different categories. The most important categories are as follows:

According To Construction

Certain shock absorbers are structural components of the vehicle like a strut and so the construction can vary according to the suspension type. Essentially there are three types of shocks that can be distinguished based on construction: Spring-seated or coilovers, struts, and shock absorbers. Shock absorbers have a chamber with a piston. This chamber is filled with some sort of fluid that resists the movement of the piston arm. Struts and coilovers have a shock absorber as the main component but the construction is varied. They usually have coil springs attached to the housing.  

The difference between struts and coilovers is that struts are designed to bear larger side loads and are mounted directly to the vehicle&#;s chassis. Coilovers are commonly used in place of conventional shock absorbers and also replace the factory suspension springs. An advantage of this arrangement is the adjustability of the ride height. By altering the spring length, you can change the ride height of the car. Struts can be further classified into repairable and non-repairable types where the repairable ones allow the replacement of individual components like springs and shock absorbers.

According To Design

Shock absorbers can be classified based on the internal design of the chamber that produces many different types of shock absorbers. The most common types are Mono-tube and Twin-Tube shock absorbers. Mono-tube shocks have a single tube in which the piston is suspended, whereas in the twin-tube design there are two chambers &#; outer and inner tube. Twin-tube shock absorbers are commonly used in commercial vehicles due to their agreeable characteristics whereas mono-tube designs are common in sports applications. 

According To Adjustability

Adjustable Shock absorbers allow the user to fine-tune the shock absorber in many different ways to suit their exact needs. The user can adjust the compression and rebound damping. These parameters determine how the shock absorber will react when operated. However, you require a keen understanding of the device to be able to effectively tune the shocks and get useful results. For most folks, non-adjustable type shock absorbers are the better fit.

According To Fluid Type

Shock absorbers can be further categorized into two types based on the fluid used inside the chamber. Although all shock absorbers have some sort of hydraulic oil, some shocks use special gasses along with the conventional oil to prevent aeration, enhance heat dissipation, and ultimately perform better. On this basis, you can classify shocks into hydraulic and gas shocks. Gas shocks usually have pressurized nitrogen gas inserted into the chamber. Gas shocks usually come with a reservoir where pressurized gas is stored. This reservoir may be directly attached to the shock absorber housing or can be placed away and have lines running to the shock. Gas shocks tend to be aimed toward off-roading and heavy-duty applications where there is a constant requirement of shock absorption like when driving over rough terrains.

3

What Should I Consider Before Buying Shock Absorbers?

As you can tell from the many types, shock absorbers vary in many different ways and so it is easy to get confused when purchasing new ones, especially if you want something better than what came from the factory. The below list provides an insight into factors you should be considering before you buy new shock absorbers for your vehicle.

Driving Conditions

Your shock absorber choice largely depends on your driving condition and style. Everyday commuters that stick to highways and roads can opt for reliable and durable steel twin-tube shock absorbers. Within twin-tube shock absorbers is Position sensitive damping and Acceleration sensitive damping twin-tube shock absorber. These offer many advantages over standard twin-tube shocks like faster damping response, providing more comfort, and can be an upgrade over the factory twin-tube shocks. 

For those who often track their vehicles or go on unpaved surfaces like off-roaders and racing vehicles, the better choice is mono-tube shock absorbers. These types of shocks are capable of withstanding harsher driving conditions that can be found in racing and off-roading applications. 

Price

The cost of shock absorbers can get really steep the more high-performance they are. Twin-tube shocks are usually an affordable replacement choice for most users. However, position and acceleration sensitive damping twin-tube shocks can be more expensive but worth the extra cost due to the better performance they give. Monotube shocks can get quite expensive but are a necessity in performance applications. Heavy-duty shock absorbers and struts also cost more but are a long-lasting and durable choice for those who have larger vehicles.

Brand Choice

If you want high-performance shock absorbers then you need to look to the aftermarket as OE replacements are pretty limited. Different manufacturers have different offerings that are suited to different users. OE counterparts are designed for a broad user base and do not cater to any specific applications. On the other hand, aftermarket brands can provide solutions for even the most unique shock absorber needs. The features mentioned along with each brand can help you decide which brand meets your shock absorber requirements. 

Material Choice

Another shock absorber variation you need to consider is the material they are made of. The material the shock is made of can influence many important characteristics like performance, weight, and price. Shock absorbers are available in steel and aluminum. Steel shocks are affordable choices and have a good lifespan and performance. However, they are heavier, cannot be adjusted, and are susceptible to corrosion after prolonged usage. Aluminum shocks are lightweight which helps reduce unsprung mass and can be adjusted which allows the user to alter the ride height. Although these performance benefits come at a premium price. 

5

What Are The Symptoms Of Failing Shock Absorbers I Should Know About?

Understanding the failures of the struts or shock absorbers before major problems arise and having them fixed is necessary for the best vehicle operation, a smooth ride, proper handling, and most importantly &#; stability. Here are a few shock absorber failure symptoms:

A. Bumpy Ride

If the ride feels very bouncy then it is an indication that the struts or shock absorbers have failed and do not dampen the road disturbances effectively. Experiencing a bumpy ride can mean that there is an issue with the dampening of the bumps which means that the shock absorbers or struts are failing to do their job. In such a situation, to verify if the shock or struts are worn out, one can do a  bounce test. Simply push your entire weight down on your car&#;s bonnet. Release and count the number of times the car bounces. If it bounces more than three times, then there is a problem with your shock absorbers or struts.

B. Dipping, Leaning Or Swerving Of The Vehicle

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Another prominent failure symptom of the suspension system can be observed while accelerating, braking or cornering. If the vehicle leans backward during acceleration, or nose-dives during braking, or leans from side-to-side while making a turn then the shock absorbers and struts are worn out causing a complete failure of the system. 

C. Excessive Vibrations

The job of the shock absorbers is to absorb the shocks that occur as the vehicle goes over bumps and uneven surfaces on the road. If the shocks fail then these vibrations make their way into the cabin and create an uncomfortable ride. These vibrations can also be felt at the steering wheel and can hinder the movement of the vehicle causing the vehicle to pull to one side, involuntary turns, and loss of control. 

D. Noticeable Leaks 

The hydraulic fluid within the shock can start to leak if the shock casing is damaged or the seals wear out after prolonged use. The leak will cause the hydraulic fluid level to decrease to a point where the shock absorber loses functionality. If you find excessive liquid surrounding the shocks then have them replaced immediately. Note that a thin layer of liquid can be present over the shock after the piston has expended leaving behind some residue. This is natural and there&#;s nothing to worry.

E. Uneven Tire Wear 

One of the functions of the shock absorbers is to maintain tire contact with the road surface. If the shocks are worn out, the tire contact patch is abrupt and so the tires do not wear evenly. However, uneven tires can be caused by many reasons so it is important to check the shock absorbers. 

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Monroe Shock Absorbers &#; Part Number CatalogCategoryPart NumbersMonroe® Gas-Magnum® Truck Shock Absorbers,  , , , Reflex® Truck Shock Absorbers, , , , Reflex® Monotube Shock Absorbers, , , , ,Monro-Matic® Plus Shock Absorbers, , , , OESpectrum® Truck & Passenger Car Shock Absorbers, . , ,  OESpectrum® Monotube Shock Absorbers, , , , Monroe® Load Adjusting Shock Absorbers, , , , ,

Unity Automotive Strut Assemblies &#; Part Number CatalogCategoryPart NumbersStrut Assemblies, , , , , , , , , , ,

Transit Warehouse Struts &#; Part Number CatalogCategoryPart NumbersStruts78-, 78-, 78-, 78-, 78-,78-, 78-, 78-, 78-, 78-

KYB Shocks Absorbers And Struts &#; Part Number CatalogCategoryPart NumbersKYB Excel-G Shocks And Struts, , , , , , , , , , KYB Gas-a-Just Monotube Shock AbsorbersKG, KG, KG, KG, KG, , , , KG, KGKYB MonoMax Shocks And Struts, , , , , , ,

Moog Shock Absorbers And Struts &#; Part Number CatalogCategoryPart NumbersShock Absorbers And StrutsSTR, ST, ST, STL, ST STR, ST, ST, ST, STL, ST

Shock Buying Guide Table of Contents

Introduction to Shocks

There are a few things to consider before buying new shock absorbers for your vehicle. Some top considerations include your driving style, how you use your vehicle, and your budget.

Here's an overview:

Why you need Shocks and Struts

• Function: Shocks and struts are critical components of your vehicle's suspension system, designed to absorb and dampen shock impulses, maintain tire contact with the road, and manage spring motion.

Types of Shocks and Struts

• Standard (Twin-Tube): Suitable for standard driving conditions, offering adequate shock absorption.
• Gas Charged: Contains nitrogen gas to reduce aeration and foaming, providing a smoother ride and better handling.
• Monotube: Ideal for severe driving conditions or performance vehicles, offering quick damping response and better heat dissipation.
• Adjustable: Allows the driver to adjust the damping to suit different terrains and preferences.

Selecting the Right Shocks and Struts

• Assess Your Needs: Consider your typical driving conditions (city roads, highways, rough terrains) and what you prioritize (comfort, durability, performance).
• Vehicle Type and Usage: Tailor your choice to your vehicle type and usage&#;daily commuting, off-road driving, or performance activities.
• Load and Towing Requirements: Consider shocks that can handle additional weight if you frequently tow trailers or carry heavy loads.

Installation and Maintenance

• DIY vs. Professional Installation: Evaluate whether you have the skills and tools to install the shocks yourself or if professional installation is needed.
• Maintenance Tips: Regularly inspect your shocks for signs of wear such as leaks, rust, or damage, and replace them as recommended by the manufacturer or if you notice a decline in ride quality.

FAQs

• How often should shocks and struts be replaced? Generally, it&#;s recommended to inspect shocks and struts every 50,000 miles, but this can vary based on vehicle and driving conditions.
• Can I replace just one shock or strut? It&#;s advisable to replace shocks and struts in pairs (either both front or both rear) to maintain balanced vehicle handling.
• Do shocks and struts come with a warranty? Many manufacturers offer warranties; check the terms when purchasing to understand what&#;s covered.

Benefits of Quality Shocks and Struts

• Improved Safety: Enhances vehicle handling and braking efficiency.
• Increased Comfort: Reduces ride harshness, vibrations, and noise levels.
• Better Performance: Improves vehicle stability and tire performance.

With so many shock absorber options available for popular cars and trucks, it can feel overwhelming to make the right decision. This guide simplifies the shock-buying process by helping you match your shocks to your vehicle&#;s usage and your driving style&#;whether you&#;re looking for off-road ruggedness, high-performance cornering, or comfort for everyday commuting.

Finding The Right Shocks For Your Vehicle

Understanding Shocks and Struts

Shocks and struts are crucial parts of your vehicle's suspension, providing comfort, control, and safety. While they may be used interchangeably, they are not the same:

• Shocks: Control spring and suspension movement.
• Struts: Provide both damping and structural support to your vehicle&#;s suspension.

Choosing the right option depends on your vehicle&#;s specific suspension system and your driving needs. Learn more about the differences between shocks and struts.

Shocks and struts are key components in your vehicle's suspension system, playing a pivotal role in ride comfort, handling, and safety. They work by absorbing the bumps and vibrations from the road, providing passengers with a smoother ride. More importantly, they keep your tires in constant contact with the road surface, which creates control and braking efficiency.

While the terms shocks and struts are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. Shocks, or shock absorbers, are standalone components that don't support any weight. They're primarily designed to control the movement of the springs and suspension.

Struts, on the other hand, are a structural part of the suspension system, supporting the weight of the vehicle and providing a mounting place for the coil spring. They perform two jobs: damping, like a shock, and providing structural support to the vehicle's suspension.

How To Find The Right Shocks For Your Driving Style

• High-Performance Driving - If you prioritize handling and precise control, especially at high speeds or on performance-oriented vehicles, you'll need shocks designed for performance driving. These options sacrifice a little comfort for sharper response and safety.

• Off-Road and Towing - For trucks and SUVs that tackle rough terrains or tow heavy loads, you'll need heavy-duty shocks that offer durability, heat resistance, and control under load.

• Daily Driving and Commuting - For vehicles that are primarily used on well-paved roads, comfort is key. These shocks offer smooth rides for daily commutes and can even enhance handling slightly over stock shocks, without sacrificing comfort.

Choosing the perfect shocks for your vehicle is not just about the make and model. It's also about matching the shocks with your lifestyle and driving habits. If you're an off-road enthusiast who regularly navigates rough terrains, you'll need heavy-duty shocks that can withstand the rigors of such environments.

On the other hand, if you use your vehicle mainly for commuting on well-maintained roads, comfort-oriented shocks would be more suitable. These are designed to provide a smooth ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease.

For performance enthusiasts who engage in high-speed driving or racing, high-performance shocks are the go-to choice. These shocks offer superior handling and responsiveness, allowing for precise control at high speeds.

In essence, the perfect shocks for your vehicle should align with your driving needs and lifestyle. By considering your driving habits and the conditions you frequently encounter, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect shocks.

Guide to Shock Buying: High Performance Shocks

High performance shocks and struts (in this guide we'll use the terms interchangeably, click here to learn more about the difference between shocks and struts) are designed to give your car or truck the best handling possible. For drivers who push their vehicles to the limits, an extra inch or two of grip can mean everything, so they are willing to sacrifice a bit of road comfort for a lot of safety. These shocks and struts will keep your car glued to the corners and help your truck stay on the trail. For towing applications, these shocks will keep your truck and trailer driving straight and true, no matter how windy or bumpy the road gets.

Bilstein Sport (B8)

• Ideal for: Lowered cars, high-performance driving
• Features: Stiffer valving, monotube design for precise handling.
• Buy Bilstein Sport (B8) shocks.

Bilstein Sport (B8) High pressure monotube shocks and struts available for trucks and sports cars. Bilstein B8 Sport shocks will have a stiffer valving than the B6 Heavy Duty, giving you the most precise handling possible. The Bilstein Sport is specially designed to work with lowering springs up to 2" lower than stock. Only available for select sports cars and sporty sedans.

Recommended in our shock buying guide for: High Performance Driving, Lowered Cars.

KYB AGX Adjustable

• Ideal for: High-performance driving, customizable damping for different needs.
• Features: Adjustable damping, designed for lowered cars.
• Buy KYB AGX Adjustable shocks.

KYB AGX Adjustable shocks and struts give you the option to dial in your sports car's handling performance. The KYB AGX's adjustable damping is the best way to tune your car's damping short of a full coilover kit. Ride around all week with a soft, cushioned ride and then crank up the performance for the weekend or tune your ride at the autocross for perfect performance. Designed to work with lowering springs up to 2" lower than stock. Only available for select sports cars.
Recommended in our guide to shock buying for: High Performance Driving, Lowered Cars.

Bilstein Remote Reservoir

• Ideal for: Off-road driving, lifted trucks, off-road towing.
• Features: Remote reservoir, monotube design for heat dissipation.
• Buy Bilstein shocks.

Bilstein Remote Reservoir Offroad Shocks for lifted trucks and SUVs. The Bilstein Series uses high pressure monotube technology and a remote oil reservoir to prevent overheating even in the toughest situations. Remote Reservoir Bilstein shocks are available for stock height and lifted trucks. Built to withstand the intense heat and abuse of Baja Mexico, the Bilstein will keep your truck handling like a go-kart through the toughest dirt, mud, silt, and rocks in the world.
Recommended in our shock buying guide for: High Performance Offroad Driving, Lifted Trucks, Offroad Towing.

Fox Performance Series

• Ideal for: Lifted trucks, high-performance off-road driving.
• Features: Internal floating piston, corrosion-resistant aluminum.
• Buy Fox Performance Series shocks.

Fox Performance Series shocks are designed for extreme offroad use and abuse. Our Fox Performance monotube shocks use an internal floating piston to deliver reliable offroad performance in a bolt-in package.
Recommended in our shock buying guide for: Lifted Trucks, High Performance Offroad Driving (remote reservoir models), Towing.

Guide to Shock Buying: Performance Daily Driver Shocks

Performance daily driver shocks for drivers who use their car or truck as their primary means of transportation but also sometimes push their vehicle harder than the average person. Most drivers shopping for performance shocks fall into this category. If you use your truck for your daily commute but also tow a trailer a few times a week or need to get down unpaved trails, or if you like to open your car up when the road allows it, these are the shocks for you.

Bilstein Heavy Duty (B6)

• Ideal for: Towing, rough roads, light off-roading.
• Features: Gas pressure technology, blend of comfort and performance.
• Buy Bilstein Heavy Duty (B6) shocks.

Bilstein Heavy Duty (B6) shocks and struts are engineered for the perfect blend of comfort and performance. Bilstein's B6 Heavy Duty shocks and struts use a high-pressure monotube design to prevent overheating along with valving designed for performance while towing or driving on rough roads without being too stiff for daily use.

Recommended in our guide to buying shocks for: Towing, Rough Roads, Light Offroading, Aggressive Performance Driving, Work Trucks, Plowing, Diesel Trucks.

Buying KYB Monomax Shocks

• Ideal for: Work trucks, SUVs, towing.
• Features: Monotube design for heavy-duty use, 40% stiffer valving.
• Buy KYB Monomax shocks.

KYB Monomax truck shocks are KYB's answer to the need for a heavy-duty monotube shock. Built only for trucks and the tough use they see towing, offroad, and driving everywhere with heavy loads.

Recommended in our shock buying guide for: Towing, Rough Roads, Light Offroading, Work Trucks, Plowing, Diesel Trucks.

Buying KYB Gas-a-Just Shocks

KYB Gas-a-just is KYB's monotube shock for trucks, SUVs, and performance cars.
Recommended in our guide to buying shocks for: Aggressive Street Driving, Rough Roads, Muscle Cars, Commuting, Worn Suspensions.

Guide to Shock Buying: Comfortable Daily Driver Shocks

Comfortable daily driver shocks for vehicles used primarily on normal roads for every day driving and only occasionally used for towing or aggressive driving. Drivers not looking for performance upgrades should use these shocks for the best ride possible, slightly better handling and a longer shock life than original equipment units.

Buying KYB Excel-G Shocks

• Ideal for: Commuting, daily driven cars, worn suspensions.
• Features: Low pressure twin-tube design for smooth ride.
• Buy KYB Excel-G shocks.

KYB Excel-G shocks and struts are available for most passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
Recommended in our shock buying guide for: Daily Driven Cars, Commuting, Worn Suspensions.

Buying Bilstein B4 Touring Class Shocks

• Ideal for: Daily driving, commuting.
• Features: Soft comfortable valving, gas pressure technology.
• Buy Bilstein B4 Touring Class shocks.

Bilstein B4 Touring Class shocks offer the legendary reliability of Bilstein shocks without the rougher ride of a high-performance monotube.
Recommended in our shock buying guide for: Daily Driven Cars, Commuting.

Buying Monroe OESpectrum Shocks

• Ideal for: Imported cars, commuting.
• Features: Sensatrac road sensing technology for a smooth ride.
• Buy Monroe OESpectrum shocks.

Monroe OESpectrum shocks and struts are low pressure twin tube replacement units built for imported cars.
Recommended in our shock buying guide for: Daily Driven Cars, Commuting.

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