Shock absorbers are very much needed to make sure your car performs well, and you get to use it for its full worth.
Buying and fitting the best one can be a bit tricky if you’re not a professional and you don’t know what exactly to look for.
To save you a lot of research, I’ve scratched some of the best shocks for Dodge Dakota 4×4.
The list below will help you dive right into the world of shocks and which one, in particular, works best for you and your car.
If you’re interested, keep on reading!
Table of Contents
6 Top Rated Dodge Dakota 4WD Shocks Comparisons
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | EDITOR'S RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
TOP PICK  | 9.7 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
BEST BUDGET  | 9.5 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 9.1 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.8 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.6 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.2 | CHECK ON AMAZON |
1. Rancho RS5000X Gas Shocks Set
First up, let’s discuss the working of the Rancho RS5000X Gas Shocks Set. This shock absorber fits perfectly for the Dodge Dakota 4×4.
These 4 shock absorbers for the Dakota dodge give the rider full control of the wheels on the road, which is crucial.
These shocks are velocity-sensitive for dodge Dakota 4×4. These shockers aren’t specifically made for the Dakota dodge but perform just as well as any other shock absorber.
It comes in a set of four shocks and fits both 2WD AND 4WD cars or rides.
The hardware tools required to clean and maintain these come with a pair of 4 shocks. This saves time and money.
The washing, bushing, and the needed nuts and bolts to screw these shocks in are included, which is a huge pro, they are also compatible with any other same sized nuts, so if your car requires the already installed ones, these will have no problem adjusting, and the fix-it will be perfect.
The shock absorbers also come with a warranty system but only a limited time, but something is better than nothing.
The shock absorbers provide off-road facilities as well as on-road ones.
The absorbers come with heavy-duty use and can easily take the tricky tasks of off-road adventures and can even last a lot longer than the other absorbers.
It also has a patented progressive rebound disc.
This disc helps control the wheels on the road. The frequency remains low and provides the driver control of the wheels.
In this way, the ups and downs of the road can be easily handled by the Dakota dodge as the car takes tricky turns on uneven surfaces.
Having full control over the velocity of the car is needed, which is exactly what these shocks provide.
These installed valving shim stacks help keep the vehicle steady and provide stability and durability.
That even after rough and tough use, the shock absorbers are still worth using for a 2nd go. The absorbers weigh around 25 pounds and have a dimension of 10×12×5 inches.
The exterior is painted with, the spring parts are painted red while the rest of the exterior is white, and the washing tool is off metal, which also guarantees that it will last a long time.
These are also super affordable, so if you’re looking for a good long-term investment, these would be great.
- Fits perfectly
- All hardware tools are included
- Has great control
- None
Moreover, a great purchase for your Dodge Dakota 4WD provides the driver great control over the vehicle while also tackling the messiness of the road would highly recommend it.
2. TRQ Shock Absorbers Front & Rear Kit
These TRQ Shock Absorbers Front & Rear Kit also have a lot of pros that make them for the price.
First and foremost, these come in a little kit, 4 shock absorbers, and all the necessary hardware tools needed for the better functioning of your vehicle.
The bolts and nuts are very durable and stable. They will fit perfectly in the Dodge Dakota. Being durable, they can easily take the rough and toughs of the road with ease.
Another amazing feature of these shocks is that they are easy to install, with no need for too much professional help. You can easily install these with the provided instruction menu.
The material used for the manufacturing of these is carbon steel which, as we all are aware of, is a very strong and durable material, so the investment will be worth the money.
Moreover, all the Dodge Dakota models from 1998-2004 are compatible with these shock absorbers.
The design of these absorbers is very sleek, matte black exterior finish with steel ends.
- Easily affordable
- Durable
- Compatible with most of the models
- Cheap hardware tools
Moreover, these shocks are a great investment. They also come with a fluid to reduce the friction on the road and off it as much as possible. I would highly recommend it.
3. TRQ Strut & Spring Assembly Front Pair Set
If you’ve been researching for the perfect front-rear shock, then look no further because I have just the one for you.
These TRQ Strut & Spring Assembly Front Pair Set for the Dodge Dakota performs wonder. It is compatible with all the models from 2005-09.
Right of the bat, a key feature is that it comes with all the hardware tools.
This kit contains a mix of strut bearing, coil spring, strut charged with gas, upper stunt mount, and lastly, a bumper and bootkit.
The material used for manufacturing these is carbon steel which is not only highly durable but also really good for uneven roads. One can easily use it for heavy-duty.
This brand very durable and affordable, for anyone looking for a quick front, rear shock, this one is perfect, and it provides great wheel control and lessens friction production.
These shocks come with complete package. Everything is already available in this brand. Your only concern will be to install and drive.
The hassle is worth the price and saves you time and money. The shocks also come with a warranty, limited but still worth all the features that it comes with.
- Durable and sturdy
- Used for heavy-duty off-road use as well
- All tools are already available in this one
- Hard to find and adjust
I would highly recommend these!
Their coil-shaped manufacturing techniques and a shiny black carbon steel finish attract the eye and produce a good support system for the Dodge Dakota.
4. Monroe 58650 Monroe Load Adjust Shock Absorber
Another great shock absorber for the Dodge Dakota, these Monroe 58650 Monroe Load Adjust Shock Absorbers have friction-reducing modifiers.
These modifiers ensure that the wheels are steady on-road and that the driver has full control over them.
During off-road, uneven patches occur in such a case the wheels tend to be bumpy and not in full control if a proper shock absorber isn’t attached.
This shock absorber also has a valving, another great feature to have for the wheels to adjust to the rockiness of the roads.
The piston used is fluidly banded. This provides durability and puts enough pressure on the tube to increase the heavy-duty working factor of the shock absorber.
The shock absorber weighs around 18 pounds in total, the installation process is also very easy, the design of the shock absorbers is very sleek two corral coils, and black with tiny little balls at each end for a perfect fit, the dimension of the shocks is 29.4 × 7.1 × 3.7 inches in total.
Finally, this brand is compatible with all Dakota dodge models from the 2000s. All the needed nuts and bolts are included.
Moreover, this provides a great on-road and off-road experience to the drivers and gives those full control of the wheels.
Other than that, the shocks work and perform perfectly.
- Perfect for off-road driving
- You will notice a difference right away
- No need for heavy modifications
- Cables might need to be relocated if the shocks don’t fit in the right
A great pick and even better investment, the price is also affordable, but for all that the shock provides, the price count is perfect. I would say I would highly recommend it to everyone.
5. Bilstein Set Of 4 Front/Rear Monotube Shock Absorbers
The Bilstein Set Of 4 Front/Rear Monotube Shock Absorbers are compatible with all the Dodge Dakota models from 1998-03.
As the name already gives away, this is a monotube shock absorber, which means it’s designed in a monotube form.
What causes the wheel to dramatically change while using these is the piston which is velocity-sensitive and gives a quick tune to the wheels, making them stiff and in full control of the driver.
No matter the road condition, these shock absorbers can adjust easily. For on-road driving, these shocks are also very durable and sturdy.
They give the wheels a quick tune to make them stiffer. The installation process is also nothing hard. Quick plug-in action will get the job done.
While using these shock absorbers, you will notice a huge difference in quality and comfort. The shock absorbers are stiff but enough to let the driver handle the wheel completely.
The ride will be comfortable and easy with these shock absorbers. The dampers used in these shock absorbers can easily move and glide over the thickness of the road or its rocky texture.
This product weighs 30 pounds exactly and has a dimension of 8×8×28 inches in total.
Otherwise these are affordable, easy to install, has great performance, and is all over a great purchase.
- Gives the driver full control over the wheels
- Inexpensive
- Great Performance
- Low number of buyers and ratings
I would highly recommend this to all Dodge Dakota holders a good long-term investment with no real con in any shape or form, a great pick overall.
6. Cciyu 4 x Front Rear Struts Shock Absorbers
Lastly, I have the Cciyu 4 x Front Rear Struts Shock Absorbers, its adjustable to all Dodge Dakota models from 1997-04, the manufacturing of these shock absorbers is a lot more advanced than the other shocks.
The three-inch-long elevation along with the diameter expanding to 0.63 inches provides expansion for the wheels to become stiff and in control of the driver.
The shock absorbers are made of polyurethane which as we all are aware of is a very durable material with a high-quality outcome.
Another great spec of this shock absorber is its great performance. The stability is very firm.
The greasing process does not vaporize to cease due to the hotness of the system, thus preventing rusting and residue from being left behind, keeping the shocks in good use for a very long time.
A feature that is quite common in all shocks mentioned is their ability to perform off-road on-road all these perform amazing, but their off-road performance tells the user what the shock is worth.
It can deal with all sorts of uneven harsh roads with rocky paths, such as during heavy snow, slippery rain in the sand, etc.
These shocks are extremely durable and a great pick overall. These are silent workers and have no leakage issue, which makes them great for everyday use.
It also comes with a warranty system limited to a year. These weigh 15.58 pounds, to be exact, with a dimension of 46×11×11 inches.
- Grease does not vaporize
- Silent and heavy-duty
- Great for off-road
- None
If you’re looking for a longer-term investment with short-term work, this shock is perfect for your Dodge Dakota.
I would highly recommend it, don’t waste your time on useless research, and get this one right now. It also has no potential drawback or cons, which makes it that much more trusting.
With that, it’s also inexpensive and easy to install, and perfect for everyone.
What To Look For When Buying Shocks For Your Dodge Dakota
Dodge Dakota is one of the most popular discontinued series still in use.
After driving the truck, you will need to replace the truck’s shock absorbers or shocks for ideal performance.
Unless you are a car expert, you can feel lost when in the market for shocks. Or maybe you buy bad-quality shocks.
To help with that, in this guide, I’ll show you what attributes in a shock you need to look for when in the shop for one:
- Self-Lubricating Fluid Seal
- Lift Height
- Adjustable Valves
- Hydraulic Or Gas Charged
Self-Lubricating Fluid Seal
Self-lubricating fluid seal retains gas and helps in reducing the extra friction against the piston to lower the premature wear.
This fluid gives the shocks a longer service life and a finer frictional property. These fluids are also made to be resistant to all types of weather.
This gives it an additional property to resist high and low temperatures. Seals that are reliable and tight are made of synthetic rubber or polyurethane.
Lift Height
Getting too short shocks when they are expanded will not fit your Dodge Dakota. Ensure you get the perfect lift height of a shock absorber.
You need to use a lift kit to measure your truck’s OE factory ride height against its current ride height.
You should always make sure your desired set of shocks is going to work with your specific model of the Dodge Dakota.
Adjustable Valves
The orientation of the valves in a shock absorber determines how easily the piston can pass through the hydraulic fluid. This directly impacts overall performance.
Manufacturers usually set the shocks in a combination to suit most driving styles. Instead, you should go for shocks with adjustable valves for your Dodge Dakota.
With this, you can dial in the suspension and adjust the shocks for your application. This can help a lot when it comes to tuning and adjusting the vehicle.
Hydraulic Or Gas Charged
Hydraulic shocks are filled with hydraulic fluid. It works with the internal valves to slow the shock absorbers motion.
Gas-charged shocks are more stable but are usually associated with performance vehicles since they stiffen up the ride. Both these factors determine a hydraulic shock’s quality.
The Dodge Dakota will benefit more from the gas-charged shocks. The gas-charged shocks are better because of their resistance to diminishing ride quality.
Despite hydraulic shocks providing a very smooth driving experience, the Dodge Dakota is a heavy-duty truck that tends to heat up.
That is where the hydraulic shock absorbers’ ride quality starts to deteriorate as it gets warmer.
If the set of shocks in question is suspiciously cheap and its description contains all the flashy keywords, this should be a huge red flag.
Always take your time to read consumer reviews and other information about whichever product you are about to buy for your Dodge Dakota.
This will ensure the shocks won’t have springing leaks or break completely after a few weeks of use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Will Better Shocks Improve Ride Quality?
Yes, shocks are used to give the driver full control of the wheel during on-road or off-road adventures.
Moreover, you need good shock absorbers to ensure that your vehicle is stiff and in control.
A better, simpler way to explain this is that the shocks are needed for the driver to have control over the wheel so that in case of emergency brake pulling, the car does not get out of control.
For the car wheels to glide easily on-road and off-road, these shocks are needed to improve the ride quality.
Q2. How Do I Check For Bad Shocks?
Study your shock carefully and look for any known flaw. If you see leakage, then that’s the biggest red flag that means your shocks have gone bad and can no longer be used.
All shocks are sealed with a proper seal during rough driving or using the car with too much force. Friction is produced, and hence the seal break.
This seal breakage results in leakage, and your shocks aren’t effective anymore. This is how you check if the shocks are bad and can no longer be used.
Q3. How Do I Change The Shocks On A Dodge Dakota?
The shocks used on the front wheel of the Dodge Dakota are a bit bigger than the ones used on the rear wheels.
You can start by replacing them all at once. The hardware tools for installation do come with the shock absorber first hand, which saves a lot of time and money.
You can start by first removing the upper and lower bolt that’s screwed on with a nut. Once that is done, simply pull out the shock and replace it with a new one, easy as that.
Q4. How Much Does It Cost To Replace All Shocks On A Dodge Dakota?
Not a lot!
If you do them yourself its cost-free, of course, but if you think you don’t have enough muscle power or knowledge to do so, taking it down to the auto shop could cost a little bit but nothing too crazy.
It will cost you around $100-150 to get the job done. The rate is different in every state, but overall it’s pretty cheap to change or replaces shocks on a Dodge Dakota.
It can be done yourself and will save you time and money a quick removal of two bolts, and you can screw the new one in easily.
Conclusion
You can read the list above thoroughly and choose your choice of shocks for the Dodge Dakota depending on your car’s model, great specs, and long-lasting effect is provided by all.
Moreover, it’s safer to check your shocks and change them often in case of any leakage.
I hope I was able to make this process easier for you as I listed out some of the best shocks for Dodge Dakota 4×4.
I would highly recommend the Rancho RS5000X Gas Shocks Set. They have great specs and material used for manufacturing.
Moreover, they stiffen the wheel, providing the full driver control over them and a safe trip off or on the road.
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.