Upgrading your Jeep’s factory shocks is one way to improve your vehicle’s ability to traverse uneven terrain.
A quality set of shocks can improve the overall ride quality and handling, which is why they are such a popular upgrade amongst Jeep owners.
To help you make an informed purchasing decision, we are going to take an in-depth look at seven of the best Jeep shocks available in 2020.
Comparison of the Best Jeep Shocks
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When to Replace Shocks and Struts
For most people, there are two situations when they start to look at replacing their vehicle’s shocks and struts: if they have lifted their vehicle or if the original factory shocks have begun to wear out.
Many Jeep owners are also off-roading enthusiasts, which is why you often see various Jeep models raised. Increasing the height of a vehicle makes it easier to navigate rocky terrain, but it also requires a new set of longer shocks.
Then, like any auto part, shocks and struts can wear over time and need to be replaced. There are seals in shocks that wear out and can cause fluid leaks.
Whether you have raised your Jeep for off-roading purposes and the stock shocks are no longer suitable, or your stock shocks have begun leaking, squeaking, or seizing up, you will need to find replacements.
How to Tell if Shocks Are Bad
You can usually tell if your Jeep’s shocks have gone if you start to hear unusual noises, especially as you drive over bumpy and uneven surfaces. The excessive body leans and sways as you round corners is another sign that one or more shocks are damaged.
Bad shocks can also impact steering quality. While steering issues are not always an indicator of bad shocks, it is worth a visual inspection to see if a shock replacement could resolve the problem. If you notice any of your shock absorbers looks corroded or damaged, you should consider replacing it before it causes further damage to your vehicle.
What Should I Look For When Buying New Shocks?
Here are the main features to keep in mind when buying new shocks:
Suitability
The type of shocks you require depends mostly on the driving you do. City and highway commuting shocks are not the same as shocks necessary for off-road and trail driving. Make sure that you are choosing the right type for your driving style.
Fit and Compatibility
Shock absorbers and struts are very different between one model and the next. Make sure you are choosing shocks that work with your Jeep model and year. Shock style, size, shape, and diameter differ significantly between one set and the next.
Durability and Material
As with any aftermarket part, quality can differ quite a bit from one brand to another. Choose shocks that are going to last, which means picking durable, yet lightweight materials, such as high-quality aluminum and steel. Also, make sure they feature corrosion-resistant coatings.
Ease of Installation
If you plan on installing your new shocks yourself, you should take installation difficulty into account. Look for simple bolt-on shocks that do not require specialized tools and machining.
Value and Affordability
Cost does not always equal quality. Some of the more expensive shocks are for off-roading, so if that is not what you plan on doing, do not get tricked into paying more than you have to. Always look for a quality product that is reasonably priced.
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Review of the Best Jeep Shocks
Let’s take a look at this year’s top picks.
Best Overall
Fox Racing Fox Perf. Series
Specifications
Construction: Monotube
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent buyers immediately noticed a significant improvement over their stock shocks after installing the Fox Racing shock kit. Fox is a highly recognizable brand in the suspension market, so it was no surprise that most buyers were impressed with the build quality and performance of these shocks.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We liked that these shocks have the off-roading and racing market in mind, but we still considered the less adventurous city drivers. Whether you want to take your Jeep down some rocky and uneven trails or only want to drive it to work, these shocks will improve your vehicle’s performance capabilities.
We also liked the overall appearance after installation. While these shocks were a little on the pricey side, that was not overly surprising for a brand with such an impressive reputation. If they were a bit more affordable, these shocks may have taken our top spot rather than the runner up position.
Bottom Line
These shocks are perfect for the weekend warrior-type that drives their Jeep around town on weekdays but still wants the option to take their Jeep into rockier terrain in their spare time.
Pros
1-year warranty
Precision cut impact aluminum body designed to never rust
Includes all washers, bushings, and nuts required for installation
Uses race-quality dampening control to ensuring comfort during driving
Designed for use in the roughest off-road conditions, but comfortable enough for on-road driving
Cons
Fairly expensive
Somewhat difficult to install
Best for the Money
TeraFlex 03-01-33-400-253
Specifications
Construction: Monotube
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent buyers were impressed by the fact that they could install this shock set on their own. While it might be a little much for those that have zero mechanical background, many buyers install them themselves with only basic tools. Users also really enjoyed the adjustment knob and 8-position tuning dial.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Given that these shocks were our best for the money pick, the first thing we noticed was the relatively low price. Given that this is a full set and TeraFlex is known for offering high-quality products, the price came as a bit of a surprise.
You get a versatile and reliable set of shocks at a reasonable price. We also really liked how well these shocks reacted to various speeds. Where some shocks are more suited to slower speeds, these shocks maintain high-performance levels even when the vehicle is traveling fast. If they are compatible with your particular Jeep, this is an impressive set of shocks that will not break the bank.
Bottom Line
These shocks are a noticeable improvement over the stock shocks you get on just about any model of Jeep. The adjustment knob is handy and incredibly easy to use. Overall, they are a great buy for the price.
Pros
Easy installation
Relatively low cost
Flexibility due to the simple 3-position fast adjustment knob
Volume Optimized Damping feature which improves vehicle feedback and stability
Velocity-sensitive shock absorbers make sure shocks perform well at any driving speed
Cons
Only available for certain Jeep models
Front shocks extend outwards, which makes it difficult to upgrade fenders after the shocks have been installed
Best Shocks For Jeep JK
Bilstein Shocks B8 5100 Monotube Gas
Specifications
Construction: Monotube
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers were impressed by the immediate improvement they could notice over the stock shocks. The simple monotube design looks and works great; however, installation can be fairly time-consuming.
Most buyers were impressed and satisfied with their purchase and were surprised that the quality was comparable to more expensive brands, such as Fox Racing.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We liked that Bilstein kept all types of Jeep JK owners in mind when they designed this shock set. The fact that they have significant travel and respond well enough for off-roading purposes but are still practical for daily commuting is a huge draw.
We also really liked that they have effective heat distribution, which means they should have a long lifespan. The fact that Bilstein also backs them with a limited lifetime warranty also helps. Overall, these shocks have a unique design that is both versatile and durable, which are two attributes we value.
Bottom Line
While these shocks can take a while to install, and the instructions could have been better, they work well and should last for a significant period. Bilstein claims they have over 100,000 miles in them, which is impressive. If you want reliable shocks and an improvement over your stock Jeep JK setup, these are worth considering.
Pros
Designed for both on and off-road use
Limited lifetime warranty offered by Bilstein
USA manufacturing and German engineering
Unique single tube design helps dissipate heat to extend the lifespan of the shocks
Set comes with all the necessary washers, bushings, clamps, and nuts required for installation
Cons
Installation can take a while
Tend to feel bumps at higher speeds
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Best Shocks For Jeep Wrangler TJ
Rancho RS5000X Gas
Specifications
Construction: Twin Tube
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent buyers were impressed with how well these shocks improved their day-to-day driving experience. They absorb potholes and make for a much smoother ride. Jeep TJ owners liked that these shocks reacted well during normal driving conditions, especially during braking and acceleration. While the highly-visible white and red color scheme was not for everyone, they were impressed with the overall performance.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We liked that these shocks feature a simple design that was a significant upgrade over the stock shocks in the Jeep Wrangler TJ. While we would have preferred some sort of dial to control stiffness, these shocks will meet the needs of most typical drivers.
While they lack some of the features you get with other shock kits, they do cost significantly less. Installation is straightforward; however, we were a little bit disappointed that Rancho did not include all new components and expected owners to reuse some of the bolts from their stock shocks. Again, these are some of the things you come to expect from a more affordable shock kit.
Bottom Line
If you own a Jeep Wrangler TJ and you would like an affordable, no-frills improvement over your stock shocks, you cannot go by swapping out your old set for this kit from Rancho.
Pros
Fits the Jeep Wrangler TJ perfectly
Designed for use in all weather conditions and temperatures
Uses Rancho’s patented rebound valve system for improved off-road performance
Large shock body for increased fluid capacity, which helps with performance at varying speeds
Rancho’s progressive engagement valving is specifically designed to reduce the impact of potholes
Cons
White paint tends to chip and scratch
Reuses factory shock bolts, rather than supplying new ones
Best Jeep YJ Shocks
Bilstein 4600
Specifications
Construction: Monotube
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers find that these shocks are a significant improvement over their stock Jeep YJ shocks. Bilstein designed this shock kit for more typical commuting rather than off-roading purposes, so buyers find they work well for highway and city driving. Most buyers enjoy the yellow and blue color scheme, which stands out and adds some unique detail to their Jeep.
Why it Stands Out to Us
These Bilstein shock absorbers are available in a variety of sizes for use with countless types of vehicles. What we liked is that they consistently improve the ride quality in any vehicle.
They use a simple yet effective design, which is part of the reason why they are so easy to install. The lifetime warranty is another major draw. While these shocks are probably not responsive enough for off-road enthusiasts, they are considerably better than the factory shocks on the Jeep YJ.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for an easily installed, affordable way to improve the comfort level when driving your Jeep YJ, you should look no further than this shock kit from Bilstein.
Pros
Lifetime warranty
Easy ‘bolt-on’ installation
Eye-catching, unique yellow and blue color scheme
Greatly improve ride quality over the stock Jeep YJ shocks
Monotube gas pressure technology improves control and stability
Cons
No control knob for stiffness adjustments
Not enough travel for off-roading purposes
Best Fox Shocks Jeep JK
Fox Racing 2.0 Performance Series IFP
Specifications
Construction: Monotube
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What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are impressed with the high level of quality and customer service we have come to expect from Fox Racing. While some were disappointed with how difficult it can be to install these shocks, most remain convinced the performance improvement was worth the extra hassle.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Fox Racing is generally considered one of the premium manufacturers of suspension parts, so the overall level of quality you get with these shocks did not surprise us. What did stand out was how seamlessly they fit the Jeep JK. They are a massive improvement over the stock shocks and also look fantastic.
They work well for daily commuting and also allow your Jeep to handle difficult terrain. While the high price is a bit of a sticking point, with Fox Racing, you get what you pay for.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a high-end shock upgrade for your Jeep JK, you do not need to look any further than this suspension kit from Fox Racing. They are a significant upgrade over the stock shocks, and they will improve the overall appearance of your Jeep.
Pros
Includes all necessary washers, bushings, and nuts
Limited one year warranty against defects and failure
Designed specifically for use with the Jeep Wrangler JK
Uses race-quality damping control to provide a more comfortable on-road driving experience
Precision cut impact-resistant aluminum body for added durability, rust resistance, and cooling capability
Cons
Fairly expensive
Somewhat difficult to install
Rancho – RS999324 Shock Absorber
Specifications
Construction: Monotube
We may earn commissiohttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B01963N4ZY/?&tag=jeepguide00-20n from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users were impressed by how easy it was to install these shock absorbers. While the instructions were lacking in detail, the installation was still straightforward.
Buyers also really like the ability to adjust softness with a simple control knob. Overall, most buyers noticed a significant improvement over their factory Jeep shocks.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The reason the Rancho shock absorbers were our pick for the best overall Jeep shocks was their versatility. We liked that you essentially get nine shock absorbers in one package. The intuitive control knob was also a huge draw, as it allows users to adjust their shock performance without much in the way of hassle. Whether you wanted to take your Jeep off-roading or just wanted it for road-based commuting, this set of shocks can handle any conditions.
We also really value durability, and these shocks feature a heavy-duty metallic exterior, as well as a graphite-filled iron piston.
Bottom Line
These shocks are easy to install, designed to last long, and work exceptionally well in a variety of driving conditions. Overall, they are an effective aftermarket shock absorber that is perfectly suited for use in a Jeep.
Pros
First 9 position manually adjustable shock
Durable design and long-lasting metallic finish
Work well in all weather conditions and temperatures
Nitrogen pressurized to 120 PSI for long-lasting performance
Easily adjusted control knob allows you to customize dampening control and firmness for on-road and off-road flexibility
Cons
Poor installation instructions
Packaging could have been nicer
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Informational Overview
To learn a little more about shocks, let’s take a closer look at some in-depth comparisons.
Shocks vs Struts
The strut is a structural part of the vehicle’s suspension system, where the shock is a stand-alone component.
Coilovers vs Shocks
Coilovers are shocks that also feature a coiled spring around the exterior of the shock absorber. Coilovers are used in heavier vehicles or vehicles that haul significant loads. They are usually much more expensive than stand-alone shock absorbers.
How to Change Shocks on a Jeep Wrangler
Replacing the shocks in your Jeep Wrangler does not have to be as difficult as you might assume. One of the most important things you can do to make the job easier is to make sure you have all your tools handy ahead of time. Also, read the manufacturer’s instruction manual ahead of time, rather than as you go. It also helps if you grease the bolts ahead of time.
Depending on where you live, some people spray their new shocks with a protective sealant ahead of time, as it is much easier to do when they are detached from your Jeep than it is after installation. A protective spray is useful if you live in an area that experiences harsh winters.
For installation, follow the steps in this helpful video guide for a basic breakdown of how you can install new shocks on a Jeep Wrangler:
Conclusion
There are a lot of things to consider when replacing the shocks on your Jeep, and we hope we helped make things a little clearer. If you’re in the market for new shocks, take a look at the products we chose to find the right one for you.
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People Also Ask
We know you probably have some more questions about the best Jeep shocks. Here are some of the things people wonder about the most.
hocks help stabilize your vehicle’s movement and enhance control when you turn, brake, accelerate, or traverse uneven road surfaces. They are essential for a comfortable ride.
Shocks usually last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles; however, you can always upgrade before they have worn out if you want better performance.
The total cost will depend on the level of quality you want to purchase. Replacing factory shocks with a new set of factory shocks will cost between $300 and $500 plus labor; whereas, higher-end aftermarket shocks can cost upwards of $1000.
Check under the carriage near the tires. Shocks will be vertical and resemble a pneumatic pump, while struts will be horizontal and look like an extension of the wheel mounts.
Who Worked on This?
Brian
Editor
A master of organization, Brian helps keep everything running smoothly for Your Jeep Guide.
No Jeep yet but we’re working on that!
Cory
Writer
Cory loves his XJ and frequently thrashes it through the hills. He’s constantly fixing something.
“What fenders?”
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