Also known as the third generation of the Wrangler, the Jeep JK is highly regarded for its off-road prowess. While upper trims feature upgraded shocks, lower trims such as the stock Jeep JK don’t get such a bonus.
Still, even the best shocks can wear down in about five years, especially if you’re an off-road warrior.
So whether your shocks are blown or you’re just looking to upgrade, check out the best shocks for stock Jeep JK.
Comparison of the Best Shocks For Stock Jeep JK
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Choosing the Right Shocks for Your Stock Jeep JK
Aftermarket shocks come in a wide range of options for every type of driving style and budget. Yet due to the sheer number available on the market, selecting the right one can feel like a daunting task. Because so much is riding on your shocks (pun intended), make sure to consider the following aspects to come to the perfect choice for your needs.
Twin-tube or Monotube Shocks
Stock Jeep JKs come with twin-tube shocks, as it’s the more affordable option of the two types of shocks. If you’re comfortable with the ride you currently have on your Jeep JK, this is the less expensive choice, but it won’t perform as well in an off-road setting.
Furthermore, twin-tube shocks are ideal for daily driving and provide a comfortable ride (or as comfortable as a Jeep can be). So if you off-road only occasionally and you want to save some money, twin tubes will be a bit cheaper. Note: Twin-tube shocks are not for heavy-duty off-roading.
If you’re an avid off-roader, monotube shocks are the ideal option. Some of the high-performance trims of the Jeep JK designed specifically for off-roading — such as the Sahara and the Rubicon — come equipped with monotube shocks. But since your Jeep JK has twin-tubes, you’ll notice a remarkable improvement off-road with an upgrade to monotube shocks.
In addition, monotube shocks also prevent shock fade, which can cause a loss of stability when driving. Monotube shocks will have a firmer ride on pavement, which can increase stability but may not be as comfortable as the stock twin-tubes.
Keep in mind that these aren’t the only shocks available; they’re by far the most common. You might also see coilover and remote reservoir shocks, but these are typically only used by hardcore gearheads and off-roaders.
Lifting or Leveling Kits
Even if you have a stock Jeep JK, you may have lifted or leveled it to accommodate bigger tires or provide more clearance. In this case, you’ll have to purchase longer shocks. Always check the length of the shock you currently have to make certain that the new shock matches correctly. The same also goes for situations where you’re deciding to add a leveling or lift kit: you’ll need a new set of longer shocks.
Driving Style
Daily commuters and everyday drivers will find that twin-tube shocks meet their approval. They offer a smooth ride at the best price possible. Conversely, Jeep JK owners with a lift kit, larger tires, or a fanatical desire to off-road should consider a monotube shock, as it offers more firmness which translates to more stability on treacherous terrain.
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Review of the Best Shocks For Stock Jeep JK
With a number of varieties, brands, and price points, you have plenty of shocks to choose from. So to narrow your decision and point you in the direction of top-notch shocks, here are some of the best-reviewed options available on the market.
Best Overall
Fox 2.0 Performance Series IFP
Specifications
Weight: 28 pounds
Works With Lift or Leveling Kit: Yes
Construction Material: T6 Aluminum
Type: Monotube
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Review
Founded in 1978, the Fox name is synonymous with excellent shocks, and the Fox 2.0 Performance Series IFP doesn’t disappoint. Thanks to its monotube design, these shocks let you navigate off-road terrain without a second thought, regardless of whether you have a leveling or lift kit or not.
This product also provides a firm ride on the highway with superb stability and control that stock shocks just don’t offer. And with a corrosion-resistant finish, you won’t have to worry about rust whether you’re tackling mud, snow, or wet surfaces.
Bottom Line
Although the budget-conscious may find Fox 2.0 Performance Series IFP shocks a tad on the pricey side, the results speak for themselves. If you’re searching for a set of monotube shocks proven to handle rigorous off-roading, look no further than this.
Pros
One-year warranty
Corrosion-resistant finish
All hardware included (uses existing shock mounts)
Compatible with 4WD and 2WD (2007-2010) Jeep JKs
Aluminum body provides cooling power to prevent shock fade
Cons
Short warranty compared to competitors
Very expensive compared to other monotube shocks
Some buyers state that there’s not much change in ride compared to cheaper options
Runner-up
TeraFlex 1545200
Specifications
Weight: 22.6 pounds
Works With Lift or Leveling Kit: Yes, up to 3” or 4”
Construction Material: T6 Anodized Aluminum
Type: Twin-tube
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Review
If you’re worried about fitment issues, TeraFlex 1545200 shocks will put your worries to rest. Compatible with every model year of the Jeep JK, these twin-tube shocks easily install, just like the stock shocks. An e-dipped, corrosion-resistant resistant coating prevents rust as well. And because of the construction of the shocks, installation — even for novice or DIY mechanics — takes only about an hour.
Bottom Line
With a limited lifetime warranty, an affordable price, and the ability to add lift or leveling kits up to 4 inches, TeraFlex 1545200 shocks provide a trifecta of features that Jeep JK owners will love. While the twin-tube design may put off some off-roaders, those that do light off-roading and pavement driving will find that these shocks meet or exceed their expectations.
Pros
Fits all years of Jeep JK
Limited lifetime warranty
Drastic improvement in handling over stock twin-tube shocks
Corrosion-resistant black finish to prevent rust and add aesthetics
Large diameter piston lowers internal temperature to prevent shock fade
Cons
Underperforms off-road compared to monotube alternatives
Many buyers report missing hardware (although the premium bushings are always included and of high quality)
Best for the Money
Rancho RS5000X Gas Shocks
Specifications
Weight: 25 pounds
Works With Lift or Leveling Kit: Yes, if lift is 2” or less
Construction Material: Steel
Type: Twin-tube
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Review
With internal gas pressurized to 150 PSI, Rancho RS5000X Gas Shocks minimize the air-to-oil blend that can cause excessive shock fade. With this setup, your Jeep JK will run more smoothly on the pavement, as well as enjoy a noticeable improvement over the stock twin-tube shocks.
Bottom Line
Rancho RS5000X Gas Shocks are an excellent choice to replace OEM shocks in terms of both ease of installation and a remarkably similar ride. While some buyers complain that the gas results in a soft ride that makes you feel every bump, the 90-day ride guarantee lets you decide if this is the shock for you. And with compatibility for every year of the Jeep JK, you won’t have to worry about any fitment issues.
Pros
All hardware included
90-day ride guarantee
Limited lifetime warranty
Comes with a protective, all-weather red boot
Fits Jeep JK without any modifications or extra hardware necessary
Cons
Doesn’t fit the limited run 2WD Jeep JK
Compression too soft for some drivers
May start to rust after a few thousand miles
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Best Bilstein Shocks Jeep JK
Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shocks
Specifications
Weight: 25 pounds
Works With Lift or Leveling Kit: Yes
Construction Material: Steel
Type: Monotube
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Review
Since 1873, Bilstein has provided some of the best mechanical parts on the planet, and their reputation continues with Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shocks. With the company’s patented self-adjusting valves, these shocks offer fade-free driving and the most durability in the industry.
Bottom Line
If you’re searching for consistency no matter where you’re driving, Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shocks provide the solution to your problems. While these come with a higher price tag, the longevity of the product and balance between everyday driving and off-roading should provide the one-two punch few other shocks can provide.
Pros
Limited lifetime warranty
Super smooth ride on pavement, even over bumps
Some buyers have reported this model lasting 100,000 miles
Perfect balance between off-roading and on-pavement driving
Proprietary self-adjusting valves for durability and fade-free performance
Cons
Installation process can be difficult for DIYers
Some buyers not satisfied with performance in heavier off-roading
Best Jeep JK Shocks No Lift
Bilstein 4600 Series Pair
Specifications
Weight: 30 pounds
Works With Lift or Leveling Kit: No
Construction Material: Steel
Type: Monotube
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Review
If you want the same ride as your shock stocks, good news: Bilstein 4600 Series Pair is the industry standard shock for OEM replacements. With an upgrade yet a similar feel to OEM, these monotube shocks provide a great solution for everyday driving and commuting, as well as some light off-roading. And with the famous blue and yellow paint and boot, you’ll add a touch of allure to the underpinnings of your Jeep JK.
Bottom Line
To make this as simple as possible: if you want to go off-road or you have a lift kit, opt for the Bilstein 5100 Series. If you’re a daily driver without a lift kit on your Jeep JK that rarely goes off the pavement, the Bilstein 4600 Series is the shock that should meet with your approval.
Pros
Limited lifetime warranty
Great comfort and excellent handling
Bolt-on installation takes only about two hours
Blue and yellow paint provide a cool aesthetic
Firm ride on both pavement and rougher terrain
Cons
Poor instructions
Designed for use only with factory springs and suspension
Best Fox 2.0 Shocks Jeep JK
Fox 2.0 Performance Reservoir
Specifications
Weight: 25 pounds
Works With Lift or Leveling Kit: Yes
Construction Material: Aluminum
Type: Remote Reservoir
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Review
Combine the superior performance of a remote reservoir shock with the reputation of Fox, and you’re left with one of the top-rated and reviewed shocks on the market: the Fox 2.0 Performance Reservoir. By separating the gas and shock fluid, the shocks remain cooler, allowing you to navigate off-road at high speeds without stressing about any type of fade. Furthermore, the 200 PSI gas pressure is one of the highest in the industry, improving valving performance, as well as the foaming that can happen during shock fade.
Bottom Line
With a strong brand reputation and a racing-tuned design, Fox 2.0 Performance Reservoir shocks are perhaps the best choice for the voracious off-road driver. Budget-conscious buyers may find the price a bit high while everyday drivers won’t need such a high-performance shock. But if conquering terrain or blazing new trails is your goal, you may not find a better option.
Pros
One-year warranty
200 PSI gas pressure for better performance
Superb handling both on the pavement and off
Detailed step-by-step instructions for novice mechanics
Remote reservoir design separates shock fluid and nitrogen gas for a smoother ride and better performance
Cons
Expensive for some buyers
Ride is extremely firm for some drivers
Warranty is short compared to other shocks
Best King Shocks Jeep JK
King Shocks 25001-224A
Specifications
Weight: 32 pounds
Works With Lift or Leveling Kit: Yes
Construction Material: Aluminum Alloy
Type: Remote Reservoir
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Review
Billed as the undisputed champion of off-road racing shocks, King Shocks is a company you turn to if you want unbeatable off-road performance. That’s just what you’ll get with King Shocks 25001-224A. With a remote reservoir design, these shocks lower the temperature of the shock fluid, allowing the shocks to remain more supple and stable over all types of surfaces.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking to combine the thrill of off-roading with your need for speed, King Shocks 25001-224A are the shocks you need for your stock Jeep JK. But if you’re a light off-roader, you may find that there are far cheaper options more suited to your driving style.
Pros
Easy bolt-on installation
Great ride and handle on pavement
Alluring blue and chrome appearance
Can dial in the firmness you want with a pinch bolt adjuster
Remote reservoir design lowers fluid temperature for impressive off-road results
Cons
Very expensive
May be overkill for everyday drivers
Not heat-treated, which lowers the overall tensile strength
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Price Points of New Shocks
Depending on the type, brand name, and quality of the shock, prices can vary wildly. Whether you’re on a strict budget or you have no budget in mind, these price points of new shocks will help you get a basic idea of what to expect. Note that these prices may change due to a variety of factors.
$50 and Under
In the $50 and under (for one shock) price range, you’re most likely to get basic twin-tube shocks that will work interchangeably with your current stock or OEM shocks. You’ll also find some excellent value in this range, but like many bargains, sometimes the price is too good to be true. So if you’re searching for high-quality shocks for $50 or less, you may want to take a look at either Skyjacker or Rough Country.
Established in 1974, Skyjacker is one of the most trusted names in the shocks industry. While they have some high-end shocks, their entry-level models are ideal for replacements to worn-out shocks.
Rough Country is another top brand that was a pioneer of off-road shock systems, creating their first off-road shocks in 1975. Since that time, the company has branched out into all types of suspension components, but their yellow-colored twin-tube shocks remain some of the most durable and highly regarded in the business.
$50 to $100
In the $50 to $100 range, you’ll find more options and varieties, including a monotube option for the Jeep JK. You’ll also discover corrosion-resistant coating and a wider-diameter piston that provides better performance and less brake fade.
Perhaps the most well-known name in this price range is TeraFlex. TeraFlex makes components specifically for Jeep vehicles (including twin-tube and monotube shocks), giving them a more direct approach to the design of their products. They’ve also partnered with Falcon and Fox — two huge names in the industry — to provide a line of high-performance remote reservoir shocks.
Creator of the world’s first five-way adjustable shock absorber, Rancho has been a trusted name in the shock industry for 35 years. And with a moderate price over cheap shocks, you can get the high-quality parts you want that are tuned specifically for off-road in either twin-tube or monotube formats.
$100+
When you just want pure off-roading bliss and a stiff ride on the pavement for more stability, you’re going to have to fork out over $100 a shock. But what you get in return is either a monotube, coilover, or remote reservoir design that gives you the performance you can’t live without.
Bilstein and Fox are at the forefront of high-end shocks, providing patented and proprietary technology that means one thing: they outperform cheaper shocks. So if you put a premium on handling, cornering, and turning at a grade above cheap twin-tube shocks, this is the price you’re going to have to be willing to pay.
Drive Smooth Everywhere You Go With the Best Shocks for Your Stock Jeep JK
Choosing the best shocks for your stock Jeep JK is just as vital as any other type of maintenance or upgrade on your vehicle. Without a high-quality set of shocks, the Jeep JK’s stability, maneuvering, and overall performance can suffer. Make certain to select a set of superior shocks to ensure smooth driving whether you’re on the highway or rock crawling at your favorite outdoor spot.
Recap – Best Shocks For Stock Jeep JK
Before you head out, here’s a quick wrap-up of the best shocks for stock Jeep JK:
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People Also Ask
The superb shocks listed above provide a ton of options for your driving style and needs, but you may also have some concerns before you buy. So make sure you know the answer to this question before you purchase a set of aftermarket shocks for your stock Jeep JK.
No, Jeep JL shocks will not fit a stock Jeep JK or any other JK for that matter. The damping curves and mountings are different on both Jeeps. A Jeep JK uses a bar pin/tab mount on the top of the rear shocks and a stud mount on the front shocks. A Jeep JL uses through bolts on the tops and bottoms of all four shocks. Keep in mind that you also can’t use Jeep JK shocks on a Jeep JL due to the same fitment issues.
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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