So you’re thinking of replacing your shock absorbers but don’t know which are the best shock absorber brands?
We have made it simple for you. This article has listed the best shock absorber brands on the market. Given the vital role that shock absorbers play, you have to be sure that you find a quality brand to replace shock absorbers when required.
So before we start with the list, let us quickly brief you about what shock absorbers are.
What are shock absorbers?
As you may already know, shock absorbers have a crucial role in your vehicle’s smooth and safe drivability. The shock absorber of a vehicle is a mechanical device that absorbs and dampens the sudden shock waves. This process of dampening shock impulses prevents collision, tire damage, and suspension breaking.
A shock absorber is a key part of your vehicle’s suspension system. It controls the movement of the suspension and ensures that the tires stay in contact with the ground. Simply put, Shock absorbers are devices fitted in all vehicles that help absorb jolts as you drive. This provides you with a smooth and safe driving experience.
This is why at the time of replacement you must opt for the top shock absorber brands that we have enlisted in this article.
Best shock absorber brands – Mechanic recommendations 2022
As promised, we have made the choice of the best shock absorber brands easy for you. So here is our list of the top shock absorber brands available on the market right now. Each of these brands comes with a unique set of features but all of these will ensure that your ride is a smooth and comfortable one each time.
KYB is hands down the most globally recommended shock absorber brand and we second that. A world-renowned company, based in Japan, KYB is one of the biggest manufacturers of shock absorbers worldwide. A favorite among vehicle manufacturers, KYB sells around 50 million shock absorbers a year. Many expert mechanics also insist on replacing the absorbers of your car with a KYB shock absorber. This is because KYB has established its name with highly efficient, and durable car parts.
Leading automobile manufacturers rely on KYB for their premium shock absorbers and other car parts. Every 1 out of 5 vehicles you see on the road has a KYB absorber installed in it. For instance, manufacturers like Honda, Lexus, Toyota, Subaru, Volkswagen, Mazda, and Chrysler work with KYB. That’s why it is infamous for being the best Japanese shock absorber brand.
Moreover, considering the efficiency you get for the price makes KYB an outstanding choice.
Monroe is widely known across vehicle manufacturers for its efficient shocks and struts. It is surely a top choice if you are looking for a quality shock absorber. As a trusted manufacturer in the automobile industry, you can rely on its aftermarket solutions. Besides premium shock absorbers, Monroe is also known for their innovative original equipment. They are one of the biggest suppliers of struts, suspension parts as well as steering parts.
Monroe originated in 1919 and has completed a century of staying in business. The company manufactures innovative products for heavy vehicles as well as SUVs and passenger cars. The company enjoys a great reputation for its excellent car parts. So if you are looking to replace the worn-out shock absorbers in your car, Monroe is the way to go.
In addition to this, Monroe also offers a 5-year long warranty on its shock absorbers.
Fox racing is a also great choice because it is also a top producer of shocks. The brand is popular for making superior products for off-road vehicles like mountain bikes, ATVs, and snowmobiles. For car racing enthusiasts Fox racing is a top choice. Here is what sets Fox Racing shocks apart from the rest–
They offer Coil-over as well as external or internal bypass designs providing you a very smooth ride in all sorts of road conditions. Even though Fox racing is fairly new in the industry, it has really excelled in quality. In addition to this, the installation is also fairly painless. So you can trust the brand’s shock absorbers to be a great replacement option. Many car owners rave about the superior performance of these shocks.
Gabriel is a top aftermarket producer of shock absorbers, and you can easily find Gabriel shocks in stores and e-commerce sites. The company first began its production in 1900 when the founder launched an automotive horn. After just 7 years, in 1907, they started making one of the world’s first automotive shocks.
Their independent operations led to the launch of the world’s first hydraulic and adjustable shocks. In addition to that, Gabriel also dabbled in photo-sensitive technology.
The brand also creates shocks that are specific to vehicle types. Gabriel provides well-lubricated seals that prevent wear off and rust. So don’t think twice and go ahead with it.
It is among the best shock absorber brands for small cars as well as trucks. The brand first began in 1873 and from 1928 to 1954 it came to be known as a major player in the auto industry.
Bilstein has more than 60 years of OE experience and about 50 years in racing. So you can surely trust the brand’s solution for top shocks. You can use its shock absorbers for both on and off-road driving. These shocks allow proper response and have high safety reserves. Many big names in the vehicle industry trust this brand for their manufacturing parts. These shocks can be used for both heavy-duty usage and street rides and are a bang for your buck.
KONI is yet another great option for your shocks. This brand was first launched by A. de Koning in Netherland in the year 1857. Before world war II, the brand made tools for horses, and then post-war got into shock absorbers. KONI has since become the world’s key supplier of adjustable shocks. KONI shocks are made from high-quality material and offer a high tolerance level.
These shocks are usable on both old and new makes. KONI’s product lines are widely used in cars, defense, trucks, railways, buses, sports & racing. KONI shocks are also re-buildable if the vehicle setup calls for it. Plus, these shocks come with a lifetime warranty option. If you own a mustang, then KONI shocks will be a sure-hit for your car.
This brand is also a popular name in the market for suspension parts. It was first set in 1974, it became one of the best shock absorber brands in the USA. The brand offers a wide range of shocks to fit any and all driving needs.
The brand has come up with versions that have foam-cell and multi-stage valving features that ensure steady performance. The features excel in quality and you’ll see a clear difference while driving. If you start using these shocks, you can wave goodbye to bumpy or jumpy rides. These shocks easily maneuver bumps, dips, and potholes, in the road. Plus, the brand comes with a warranty period.
The expert team behind Rancho aims to improve your car’s overall drivability. Their top variant is the RS5000 shock absorber which offers an even driving experience both on and off-road.
Also, the RS7MT shocks have piston rods, which prevent corrosion. Most mechanics opt for the internal rebound bumper as it allows a safe and smooth ride on and off-road. With Rancho, you get a fully-engineered, custom-made part that fits your driving conditions. Rancho shocks are ideal if you live in a place with rough road conditions. The shocks handle potholes with exceptional ease.
Drive Tech America (DTA) excels in its impeccable product quality of struts and shocks. Their shocks and struts work well with almost all kinds of vehicles. Their entire product line is engineered and manufactured as per industry standards and is ISO-9002 certified. DTA is justly priced and if you plan to change your shocks anytime soon, you can rely on DTA.
DTA has a limited product range in comparison to other popular brands but the quality is just as good as any. It is a great lower-cost alternative to many other high-end shocks like Bilstein. Also, it is super safe and easy to install all by yourself.
In 1983, this brand started with the idea of reducing the suspension on a pickup truck to boost its performance. The brand has come up with the Nitro Drop 2 shock line for SUVs and trucks with a unique fusion of shock tuning. This blend boosts the performance of your suspension system and provides a better grip and road feel. These shocks also provide:
- A full cover of strong metal dust boot allows clean operations
- OEM ride quality with high control, grip as well as comfort
The shocks of this brand are ideal for pickups.
Common Questions
What type of shock absorber is the most common?
Most modern suspensions have Twin tubes, and gas-charged shocks installed in the vehicles.
These shocks are by far the most common of all types and are very affordable. Most cars and trucks use this type for their suspension system.
Why do shocks leak?
The internal part of a shock has a hydraulic fluid and a piston. As you drive, the vehicle passes over potholes, bumps, and harsh road conditions. This forces the piston against the fluid which makes the fluid leak out of the shock.
Also Read:- Major Suspension Problems One Should Never Ignore
What oil is used in shock absorbers?
Many kinds of oils can be used as shock oils. But the main thing you must look for is their viscosity. If they deliver good performance then you can go for it. You can use options like auto transmission oil, power steering oil, motor oil, cooking oil, etc.
Which is better gas or oil shocks?
Experts suggest that it is better to use gas-filled shocks. This is because the gas shocks are far more advanced than oil-filled- shocks, they allow better control, safety, and driving comfort.
How do you know if shock absorbers are good?
You can test a shock absorber by pushing down on any edge or corner of the vehicle a few times. Get it to bounce and stop the pushing, after this see if and how many times it continues to bounce before stopping. If the shock is good, the bounce will stop at once.
How often do shocks need to be replaced?
Like all vehicle parts, shocks too, have a definite need for timely maintenance. Car experts suggest replacing them after every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, based on how much they have worn off. If you drive mostly off-road then you’ll need to change them more often.
To sum it up…
Shock absorbers are one of the most important parts that ensure that your drive is a safe and smooth one. And like all other parts, they tend to wear and tear over time. So when it’s time to change them, you must do so with good quality shocks. In matters like these, it is best to know a thing or two so that your ride stays comfortable. We hope that this article helps make the choice of shock brand easier for you.
