If you have a Ford F-150, then you are well aware of the not-so-great shock absorbers that the truck comes equipped with.
You don’t regret the Truck itself; it’s great as far as trucks go; the only problem is the bumpy ride, especially when off-road.
The best thing to do is to simply buy add-on shock absorbs for your Ford F150.
If you don’t have the time or the energy to look for the shock absorbs best suited for your truck, don’t worry; I have you covered.
I have put together a list of the best aftermarket shocks for F150 currently available. Our preferred shocks is the Bilstein 5100 Shock Absorbers.
Table of Contents
- 1 5 Top Rated Ford F-150 Aftermarket Shocks Comparisons
- 2 Frequently Asked Questions
- 2.1 Q1. How Can I Make My Ford F150 Smoother?
- 2.2 Q2. How Long Do Shocks Last On F150?
- 2.3 Q3. Do Aftermarket Shocks Make A difference?
- 2.4 Q4. How Many Miles Do Bilstein Shocks Last?
- 2.5 Q5. Why Are Bilstein Shocks Better?
- 2.6 Q6. Will New Shocks Make The Ride Smoother?
- 2.7 Q7. Which Is Better? Gas Or Oil Shocks?
- 2.8 Q8. How Much Does It Cost To Replace Shocks On A F150?
- 2.9 Q9. When Should I Replace Shocks On F150?
- 2.10 Q10. Does A Ford F150 Have Shocks Or Struts?
- 3 Conclusion
5 Top Rated Ford F-150 Aftermarket Shocks Comparisons
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | EDITOR'S RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
TOP PICK  | 9.7 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 9.5 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 9.1 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
BEST BUDGET  | 8.8 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.6 | CHECK ON AMAZON |
1. Bilstein 5100 Shock Absorbers
The Bilstein 5100 Shock Absorbers dominates almost all the lists that search for the finest shocks available for a vehicle, whether it is a car, an SUV, or a truck.
So, they take first place by providing excellent performance and stability.
This shock’s main attracting feature is the monotube design, which is recommended for every vehicle due to its being superior to every other shock design.
The 46mm monotube helps in making your vehicle drive with the guarantee that it will help maintain a smooth and consistent performance, wherever you take it.
The heat dissipation factor has also been considered and addressed by the manufacturer.
The design allows for the rapid transfer of heat from the oil to the surface for more efficient heat dispersion.
High temperature is a significant factor in shocks that malfunction very easily, despite how they are used.
Even if they are used with the utmost care, if the manufacturer has not addressed the heat issue, they can fail if used in rough conditions for lengthy periods.
Another feature of these shocks is the patented digressive valving that has the piston in a concave shape, and the shims are bent ever so slightly.
This dramatically improves the shocks’ dampening response, which enables rapid changing according to the road conditions.
These shocks are covered by a limited lifetime warranty, which means that it can be availed for as long as the shocks and the vehicles are owned by the person that purchased them.
- Excellent performance
- Quick adaptation
- Lifetime warranty
- Vibration-free ride
- Heating issues
All in all, the Bilstein shocks have top of the line performance and are covered in a limited lifetime warranty, all while still being reasonably priced.
There are heating issues in some units, but that can be replaced free of cost.
2. Bilstein B8 33256764 Shock Absorber
When writing reviews for products, it is quite common for a manufacturer to get two products in the same review.
What is extremely rare is the manufacturer winning two consecutive spots, and in this case, the top two spots.
That tells you how much of a quality manufacturer Bilstein is. The 33256764 Shocks Absorber provides a very comparable performance with the 5100s but with a few differences.
Like the first ones, the B8 features a monotube design with better heat dissipation, quicker dampening, and better control than other shocks, such as twin-tube shocks manufactured by other manufacturers.
The B8 series is more oriented towards sports and racing applications. It lowers the height of the car, which drastically improves the performance and stability of the vehicle.
When it comes to the Ford F150 4×4, they need more handling capability and a lower height if used for racing.
So, there is no better option than the B8 by Bilstein because they have been engineered for this purpose. Unlike the 5100s that use a gas-oil separation design, these use an all-gas design.
Because no oil is being used, foaming is a common problem that causes fading shocks and less dampening power, making those shocks completely useless.
The shock is tested to its extreme limit and is guaranteed to survive high temperatures and provide you with the awesome experience that your vehicle can provide you.
This brand does the same thing with every single one of their shocks to guarantee an unforgettable experience.
I found that these shocks come with a limited lifetime warranty, making it convenient for the person to claim a warranty at any point in time, just as long as the vehicle and the shocks are owned by him and not sold.
- All-gas design
- Perfect for sports applications
- Solid build
- One option for height adjustment
All in all, the shocks have great performance, and for those who don’t like to risk it with oil shocks, these are the finest option available out there.
They have a great price and even have a limited lifetime warranty.
3. Monroe 58643 Shock Absorber
Monroe is a regarded manufacturer worldwide.
They make superb quality shocks, and the Monroe 58643 Shock Absorber is no different. They are built to adapt to any road condition that a vehicle can be driven onto.
They provide unmatched control, stability, and endurance, which you just cannot find in the OEM shocks. They include vehicle specific springs that provide extra comfort.
Unlike other shocks that cannot handle too much load, the Monroe shocks can handle a weight of up to 1100 pounds, which, realistically, can never be loaded onto a vehicle.
It shows you how much weight they can handle and still gives you better than stock performance and handling.
These shocks are built with Monroe’s Positive Sensitive Damping (PSD) technology, which offers a mind-blowing comfort level.
They are also using a monotube design for better performance.
The all-weather fluid makes it possible for the shocks to perform optimally in all weather conditions, whether sunny or snowy.
The fluon banded piston also helps create a fully closed seal that helps increase the vehicle’s control.
The shocks also come with a limited lifetime warranty, which can be availed as long as the buyer still owns the vehicle.
So, this is a risk-free buy because the dampeners are covered in a lifetime warranty.
If any manufacturing defect arises during your usage, they will be replaced without any additional cost.
It must be noted that these shocks come in pairs of two, unlike other shocks that come in two pairs in a single set.
If you want to change the rear and the front shocks, you have to buy them separately.
They are also more expensive than other shocks.
- All-weather fluid
- Lifetime warranty
- Less friction
- Monotube design
- Expensive
- Raises truck’s height
Summing everything up, these shocks perform adequately and will give you a satisfactory performance.
But all of that comes with a higher price tag, which is more than most people are willing to spend.
4. KYB 349108 Gas Shock
KYB is one of the reliable brands for shocks absorbers available today. Their products work flawlessly and are very competitively priced.
They initially manufactured suspension systems that are used throughout the world.
So, when they decided to enter the shock manufacturing business, it was clear that they would dominate the space. And, they did.
Coming in fourth place is the 349108 Gas Shock by KYB. They belong to the Excel-G series of KYB’s high-performance shocks.
They are designed mainly to make your F150 feel and drive as it did when it was driven for the very first time.
I found that KYB is the only company here that manufactures OEM certified shocks, recommended even by the car manufacturers themselves.
So, these shocks do not alter the car’s performance or feel in any way but restore them.
You don’t have to worry about leaking fluid anymore because these gas shocks use a triple chrome-plated piston that prevents the seal from tearing due to wear.
The tubing is also made of steel, and it also includes a Teflon band that helps ensure the seal does not break. So, the fluid cannot cross the valves, and the shock functions normally.
The seal itself is specially made to handle rough conditions. It even has a filter to separate contaminants that may compromise the seal’s integrity and the shock.
A thick rod is also used to guide you if there is any need for wheel alignment after installing them.
The KYB shocks also come with a limited lifetime warranty, which is impressive because their shocks are the most durable and free from manufacturing defects.
The warranty can be claimed for as long as the vehicle in which the shocks were installed is still owned by the person who bought them.
So, you can use them without any tension for as long as you want because if a manufacturing defect rises, they will be replaced free of cost.
- Improved control
- Easy to install
- All-weather fluid
- Steel tubing
- Supports a few models
So, if you are in the market for new shocks for your 2009-2011 F150, then these are good to go.
They increase your vehicle’s responsiveness, handling, and stability to give you the best experience possible.
5. Detroit Axle 171361 Shock Absorbers
If you want the most value out of your money, then the Detroit Axle 171361 Shock Absorbers is for you.
They provide a superb driving experience far better than what the stock ones have to offer.
You have the option to get a full set of a full strut and spring assembly, which also has a suspension coil that will completely revamp the suspension system.
Although the whole set will change your Ford’s driving, we are here to focus on the shocks and how they perform.
They have been specifically made for the 2004-2008 Ford F150, which means if you have one in the same age range, they will suit you.
The installation is also relatively easy because they are a direct fit.
They are designed to be thinner, lighter, and still have more coils than the stock ones, which increases the response time and handling of the vehicle.
The manufacturer also provides a 10-year warranty, which means you are covered from any manufacturing defects that may compromise the shocks’ integrity.
The shocks are compatible with only a few models of the For F150, ranging from 2004-2008.
- Inexpensive
- Easy installation
- Lighter
- More coils
- 10-year warranty
- Few models support
All in all, these relatively cheap but good performing shocks cannot be matched at this price point. They do come with a 10-year warranty, which is impressive considering the price point.
But the shocks can be installed in only a handful of models of the Ford F150.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How Can I Make My Ford F150 Smoother?
Many factors account for making your Ford F150 smoother.
New tires provide better traction, and changing the brake oil makes the brakes a lot more sensitive, which improves braking distance.
New shocks make a huge impact on the vehicle’s control and handling. They improve the ground contact time by instantly changing according to the road conditions.
It is recommended to get shocks from reputable manufacturers for the excellent performance.
Q2. How Long Do Shocks Last On F150?
Pre-installed shocks on a Ford F150 generally last around 50000 miles. This number may vary depending on individual usage.
When it comes to aftermarket shocks, they can last for up to or more than 100000 miles, again depending on how they are used and which terrain they are used in.
The shocks listed above are guaranteed to last considerably longer than the stock ones.
Q3. Do Aftermarket Shocks Make A difference?
Pre-installed shocks have the purpose of just getting the job done.
They do perform in a satisfactory manner for most people, but many manufacturers design them to perform averagely, leaving your vehicle not performing to its full extent.
Aftermarket shocks aim to fill in that gap. They give you a true sense of control and handling, which is extremely rare to be found in stock shock absorbers.
Q4. How Many Miles Do Bilstein Shocks Last?
All shocks listed above last considerably longer than pre-installed shocks. The Bilstein ones, however, have one of the best lifespans out of all of them.
The 5100s can last around 80000 miles, but some users have crossed the 100000-mile limit and are still getting a satisfactory performance.
The B8s have a shorter lifespan because they are built for racing and sporty purposes. They last around 70000 miles when used to their full extent.
Q5. Why Are Bilstein Shocks Better?
Many factors make Bilstein the best shock absorber manufacturer out there. First of all, they use a monotube design in most of their shocks, including the B8s and the 5100s listed above.
The monotube design is superior to other ones because it has better heat dissipation. Bilstein also uses their patented digressive valving, which improves control, handling, and durability.
Q6. Will New Shocks Make The Ride Smoother?
High quality shocks completely change how a car performs.
They provide a much more stable drive and even improve fuel consumption and off-roading capabilities because they are built to withstand such use.
Always use shocks from renowned manufacturers so you can get the best out of your F150.
If you have to use the truck for off-roading, then it is recommended to swap the shocks for better ones.
Q7. Which Is Better? Gas Or Oil Shocks?
While buying new shocks, everyone comes across gas shocks and oil shocks. Each has its benefits.
Gas-charged shocks are used more for sportier purposes because of the quick response time. The gas responds much quicker to changes and helps in removing the oil from the valve.
Oil shocks provide a much more comfortable ride with delayed response times, which gives a smoother feel.
So, the type of shocks you buy should be influenced directly by how you use your vehicle.
Q8. How Much Does It Cost To Replace Shocks On A F150?
Depending on whether you replace the shock absorbers yourself or have it done professionally, the cost can vary.
The cost of the parts is $450, while labor costs are $175 to $221. Overall costs, therefore, vary from $628 to $674.
Q9. When Should I Replace Shocks On F150?
The standard replacement range can be anywhere between 50K and 100K miles but should be replaced immediately in the event of damage or leakage.
Depending on the usage and terrain of the truck, these values can differ from truck to truck.
Q10. Does A Ford F150 Have Shocks Or Struts?
It actually has both shock absorbers and struts in the newer models of the Ford F150.
Conclusion
The article ends here, detailing the best aftermarket shocks for F150.
I hope that it may have helped you finalize your decision to choose the best one for you.
I would personally recommend the Bilstein 5100 Shock Absorbers, which takes the first spot. Easy to install and replace and have a very reasonable price tag.
They perform a lot better than the original ones thanks to the all-weather fluid and the steel tubing, which helps in quick heat dissipation and prevents leaking, hence extending the shocks’ lifespan.
I am Tahir Azam, and I have been writing amazing articles for TaxiHack for as long as I can remember. I know everything that is to know when it comes to automobiles and is always on top of industry news and developments. While I am not an expert by any means, I pride myself on knowing the ins and outs of many different problems and, of course, their solutions. The articles on our website are some of the best and well-researched content that you will find, and I spend countless hours making sure this remains to be true. This is why I ask you to take your time out and read some of my articles, especially if you find a topic that resonates with you or is something you are looking into. This way, you will find the perfect mix of information and tips on your desired topic. Learn more about Tahir.
