Fitting your Wrangler with some of the best shocks for jeep JK is highly essential if you want your vehicle to last. After all, shocks are made to absorb impact and energy from the spring.
Apart from that, Wranglers are designed to take on varied terrain and off-road adventures with the utmost ease, so keeping its shock well-maintained will ensure that you can enjoy a very smooth and less bumpy ride.
However, not all Wrangler shocks available on the market have the same quality and durability.
To help you with that, we have compiled our reviews of some of the best Jeep JK shocks we can recommend, prepared a comprehensive buying guide with all the factors you should consider, and some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to shocks.
Contents
Best Shocks For Jeep JK Comparison Table (November 2023)
| Preview | Brand | Detail |
|---|---|---|
  | Bilstein Shocks Set For 2007-2015 Jeep Wrangler JK 5100 Series Monotube | |
  | Rancho 2007-2015 Jeep Wrangler JK RS5000X Gas Shocks | |
  | Bilstein (24-146715) Shocks For Jeep JK | |
  | Bilstein 4600 Series For Jeep Wrangler & Wrangler Unlimited Compatible 2007-2014 | |
  | Daystar Shocks For Jeep JK Fits 2007-2017 2/4WD | |
  | Rough Country PERF678 Fits on 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK | |
  | FOX Racing For Jeep JK 2007-2015 | |
  | Rancho RS7000MT 2007-2016 Jeep JK | |
  | Teraflex 1545200 Shock Kit For Jeep Wrangler JK | |
  | Maxorber 1997-2006 Shocks For Jeep JK |
What shocks are the best for Jeep JK?
Based on our research and experience, the products we have listed above are some of the best shocks for a Jeep JK on the market. We have chosen these products after considering a host of factors we’ve included in the buying guide.
Also, we take a look at their features and determine how they can provide Wranglers with a smoother and less bumpy ride.
Finally, we chose Bilstein as the winner for the best shocks for jeep wrangler jk.
Why are these brands best than others?
Brands such as Rancho, Bilstein, Rough Country, Daystar, and Fox are widely known in the market for producing high-quality components and parts for various types of vehicles.
They’ve been in the industry for several years and have proven their quality of service and products to their customers.
If you read reviews of these brands, you’ll find that many of their customers were satisfied with what they have to offer compared to other lesser-known brands.
10 Best Shocks For Jeep JK Wrangler Reviews & Buyer’s Guide (Top Rated Selection)
01. Bilstein Monotube Gas Shocks – Overall Best Shocks For Jeep JK
Looking for the best shock for your jeep? Worry no more, for the Bilstein Monotube Shocks will be a perfect solution for your needs. These shocks have set the bar up high in terms of quality and innovation.
Bilstein has been known to produce high-quality and trusted products for more than 50 years, and the Bilstein Monotube Gas Shock can attest to that.
This monotube gas shock is designed to deal with the demands of race and luxurious cars and lifted vehicles like Jeeps.
These shocks adjust during difficult terrains, keeping drivers and passengers safe, stable, and comfortable even on bumpy roads.
The high-end monotube high-gas pressure model distributes heat evenly to the outer surface of the shock, thus reducing heat and giving a more cooling effect on the shock.
Furthermore, the dividing piston model allows the oil to build up as the temperature elevates, avoiding foam formation while maintaining its dampening ability.
Highlighted Features
- Four sets of shocks for 1.5-3” lift vehicles
- Right size for Jeep Wrangler Models from 2007-2017
- Repelling and self-regulating disc valve
- high-end monotube high-gas pressure
- Manufactured in the US
Pros
- Easy to install
- Right price
- Smoother ride
- Robust with good compression
- Good fitting
Cons
- Issues with the rubber on the front shocks
02. Rancho Gas Shocks – Best Budget Shocks For Jeep JK
Advance your jeep’s handling with the Rancho Gas Shocks. Rancho has been manufacturing off-road and suspension products for quite some time.
In fact, it launched this Rancho Gas Shock model in 1985, yet it is still considered one of the best shocks for jeeps up to this time.
The valve system of this shock pressures it up to 150 PSI which, in turn, increases the spring rate of the vehicle, thus allowing a safer yet less bumpy ride for the passengers inside.
Moreover, the twin-tube and pressurized shock offer advantages that decrease the likelihood of the mixture of oil and air that may alter its shock-absorbing capabilities.
The 2 ¼ inch width of the body allows the fluid capacity to flow smoothly, thus enhancing vehicle control.
An eccentric disc inside the valve, known as the Progressive Engagement Valving, allows the controlled and stable movement of the vehicle.
Highlighted Features
- Four shock sets with shock boots for 0-2″ lift vehicles
- Right size for 4WD vehicles
- With 2.25 inches width of the body
- Nitrogen powered
- With Progressive Engagement Valving
Pros
- Easy installation
- Fluid can tolerate any change in temperature inside
- Stable in fast-pace
- It offers a smooth ride
- Right for its price
Cons
- The paint used on the shock is of poor quality
- Require installation for the nuts and bushing
- Firmer than other brands
03. Rough Country Lift Kit – Best Quality Lift for Large-Sized Tires
Improve the handling, safety, and overall look of your jeep with the Rough Country Lift Kit. The Rough Country Lift Kit makes your vehicle powerful and well-supported, ensuring the safety and comfort of the passengers inside.
This Rough Country Shock improves the overall performance of your jeep and the design and defense of the vehicle.
The “X Flex” Joints tie rods provide more flexible movements and a better cross-over performance for the rider.
Jeeps with 33-inch tires can operate at a quick pace using the 2.5-inch Coil Spring Suspension. No drilling or clipping is needed, as the lift key comes with 100% bolt-on installation for quicker and easier installation.
Improve the ground clearance of your vehicle with its factory-tuned coil springs derived from the spring rate for JK.
Furthermore, the Rough Country Lift kit also has N3 Shock Absorbers bigger than the usual shocks for a bump-free ride.
Highlighted Features
- With rubber bushings
- Elasticity of 36kN
- Intense nitrogen powered
- factory-tuned coil springs with 2.5-inch Coil Spring Suspension
- Toughened 18mm Piston rod
- With X Flex” Joints tie rods
- N3 Shock Absorbers
- 100% bolt-on installation
Pros
- Easy installation
- Affordable price
- Mounts impeccably
- Works wonders on bumpy roads
- Improved ride height
Cons
- Might need sway bar links
- Tends to jolt because of poor make at the center
04. Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Absorbers – Excellent-Rated Shock Absorbers
The Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Absorbers are thoroughly manufactured to fit SUVs and lifted trucks. They have a monotube design that guarantees steadfast and uncompromising operation.
They use an unparalleled yet speed-sensitive piston that can respond to different road situations, making your ride more comfortable and safe.
The main role of shock absorbers is to uphold and protect the well-being of the people inside the car by minimizing blows and impacts of suspension, limiting movement, and taking in the energy.
Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Absorbers do so by ensuring that the tires are constantly touching the road for slight abrasion, keeping you and your passengers relax even off-road.
Highlighted Features
- Four sets of shocks for 1.5-3” lift vehicles
- Right size for 4WD vehicles
- Contains all needed parts for the installation
- Specially-designed piston for different road conditions
- Zinc-plated surface
- Body width of 46 mm that doesn’t coil-over
Pros
- Offers control in higher speeds
- Comfortable riding experience
- Right for its price
- Easy to install
- Smooth ride
05. Daystar Steering Stabilizer – Top-Grade Jeep Stabilizer
Elevate your Jeep’s performance with the Daystar Steering Stabilizer. Daystar has been developing and producing products for vehicles for over 40 years, with the comfortability and protection of the passengers in its mind.
The company takes pride in its state-of-the-art interior and exterior accessories for trucks, Jeeps, ATVs, UTVs, and other vehicles.
The Scorpion Shock Absorbers of Daystar can be matched up with the Comfort Ride Lift for less hassle and more convenience, leveling up your Jeep to transcend any bumpy road ahead easily.
These absorbers are pitched in for every vehicle function to guarantee unparalleled operation. They have a double-tube framework that improves oil flow while minimizing impacts and blows.
Furthermore, within these shocks are a secure piston seal and a valving stack sensitive to speed. These shock absorbers are bolstered with premium Polyurethane shock bushings and finished with shock boots for longer use.
Highlighted Features
- Utilizes factory mounting
- Twin-tube model that increases oil storage
- Speed-sensitive valving system
- It fits all leveling kits
- With premium Polyurethane shock bushings
Pros
- Easy to install
- Affordable price
- Stabilizes steering wheel
- Speed-sensitive valving stack
- Good fit for Jeeps
06. Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers – Optimum Stabilizing Shock Absorbers
To get your Jeep to reach its top riding experience, try out the Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers.
Driving on uneven roads will not be a problem since these shock absorbers ensure a stable and safe ride for you and your family and friends. Equipped with four shock absorbers that perfectly mount in your Jeep Wrangler.
The Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers have Mono-tube Gas Pressure technology that offers a steady and bump-free ride no matter what road situation you are in.
Furthermore, they have a direct bolt-on design that allows hassle-free and easy installation within just a few minutes.
Highlighted Features
- With Front and Rear Shock Absorbers
- Perfect fit for Jeep Wrangler 2007-2014
- with mono-tube gas pressure technology
- Direct bolt-on feature
Pros
- It keeps your vehicle from bouncing
- Easy to install
- It offers a firm but smooth ride
- Easy handling and control
- With direct bolt-on design that doesn’t need alteration
Cons
- Difficult to screw the nut on the top of the shock
- Bushings included in the kit are quite ordinary and doesn’t fit well
07. Fox Series IFP Shocks – Greatest Shock for Off-Roading
No need to fret about driving or riding on uneven or bumpy roads ahead because it is made safer and more comfortable, thanks to Fox Series IFP Shocks. It is now equipped with highly innovative IFP to enhance your Jeep’s performance.
The Aluminum metal body intensifies the cooling capability and prevents the product from rusting.
The mono-tube Internal Floating Piston divides the oil from the gas chamber to prevent aeration of the oil to ensure superb operation from the valving stack.
The high-flow piston and the precise valving stack give off the improvised Performance Series IFP that can handle the toughest road situation.
This damping control makes these Fox Series IFP Shocks suitable for racing vehicles to keep the rider safe and comfortable at the same time.
Highlighted Features
- Four sets of shocks
- Right size for 2WD and 4WD vehicles
- Aluminum metal body
- precise valving stack
- mono-tube Internal Floating Piston
- Great for Off-road rides
- IFP monotube model which doesn’t allow oil aeration
Pros
- Offers a smooth ride
- Easy to install
- Looks professional externally
- Perfect for your Jeep
- Works on or off-road
- Gives value to your money
08. Teraflex Shock Absorber – Fit for All-Time JK Wranglers
Teraflex has been trusted to constantly give high-quality and innovative products for heavy-duty off-road suspension parts and equipment.
Knowledge and years of experience have allowed them to make up a high-quality shock absorber that could stand the test of time.
The Teraflex 9550 VSS Shock Absorber is carefully designed to be used for lifted Jeep Wranglers, meaning you get to enjoy riding off the road without needing to worry about the potholed or rough roads ahead.
This shock absorber has a built-in velocity valving modified to respond with the suspension systems from TeraFlex. Furthermore, it has a triple-chromed rod that allows simple and smooth operation and an oil block.
Wipe clean the shock rod upon operation to prevent internal fluids from leaking to ensure longer performance.
Moreover, an in-house travel stop limiter lessens the force of over-compression. The double-tube construction of the Teraflex gas shock ensures security while the e-dipped finish withstands corrosives even in the most intense situation.
Highlighted Features
- 4 sets of a shock for JK Wrangler that has a 3-4″ lift
- Durable e-dipped surface (black)
- Top-quality rubber bushings
- It fits all JK Wranglers
- Built-in velocity valving
- Triple-chromed rod
- In-house travel stop limiter
- Double-tube construction
Pros
- Perfect fit for all JK Wranglers
- Price is Right
- Good-looking exterior
- Easy to install
- It offers a smooth ride
Cons
- It doesn’t come with all the hardware needed
09. Rancho Shock Set – Basic Shock Set
To get a more accurate reaction from your full-size Jeep, do consider this Rancho Shock Set. Rancho has developed the first-ever shock absorber with a five-way flexible setting.
These shocks have a singular tube design that disperses heat effectively for all-out damping efficacy.
A 1.97 diameter body with 46mm Bore construction gives off a steady ride even on the roughest road. Furthermore, the Fluon-banded piston keeps the monotube and piston together while the free-floating piston prevents oil aeration.
The monotube shock is nitrogen-charged, which allows an unswerving performance and quick response to any road conditions. Plus, it also has a Hydraulic lockout that suppresses impacts.
The zinc-plated finish improves the aesthetic appearance of the shock that can stand for quite some time. The Rancho RS7000MT shock is specifically made for the 2007-2016 3-4” lifted Jeep Wrangler.
Highlighted Feature
- Fits 2007-2016 Jeep Wrangler JK
- singular tube design
- 97 diameter body that can be attached upwards or downwards
- with built-in disc valving
- 46mm Bore construction
- With a Fluon-banded piston and a free-floating piston
- High-pressure nitrogen-charged
- Hydraulic lockout
- zinc-plated finish
- 14 mm toughened Chrome rod
- Double-welded end loops
- With black shock boot
Pros
- Works even with a 2.5 “ lift JKU
- Effective Shock Set
- Good handling
- It offers a smooth ride
10. Maxorber Rear Set Shock Absorber
If you need a tough and high-quality shock absorber for your robust Jeep Wrangler, then look no further than the superior quality Maxorber Rear Set Shock Absorber.
Although, you can only avail the parts of the Maxorber Rear Set Shock Absorber through its factory to ensure the customers of authentic, high-quality parts for your high-end shock absorber.
The superior quality shock absorber oil seals are made from Japan used to lessen the friction between the seal and the hardened piston rod; plus, they also have anti-shearing and anti-foaming features that prevent your insides shock absorber from wearing and tearing easily.
Furthermore, the Maxorber Rear Set Shock Absorber is nitrogen-charged to allow your Jeep to perform at its maximum capacity.
It also has a smooth cylinder and sleeves that secure the pipe and piston, reduces splitting risk, and prevent leaks from getting hold of a steady force of damping.
The smooth yet firm bolt bushings and eye rings do not disconnect easily and produce too much noise, and the insulator that attaches the bolt bushings is attached so that they will not slide out.
Moreover, the Teflon-coated piston offers a good seal for the pipe and decreases friction. It is also equipped with a specifically made hydraulic fluid with a varied thickness that can be utilized for any weather condition.
This Maxorber Rear Set Shock Absorber fits 4WD Jeep Wrangler from 1997 to 2006.
Highlighted Features
- Fits 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler
- Rust protection Feature
- Nitrogen- charged
- Superior quality Oil seals with anti-shearing and anti-foaming features
- Chromed Piston Rod
- Smooth cylinder and sleeves
- Teflon-coated piston
- With smooth and firm bolt bushings and eye rings
- specifically made hydraulic fluid
Pros
- Perfect Fit for Jeep Wrangler
- Right for its price
- Keep good handling and alignment of the wheels
- Controls movement
- It offers a smooth ride
Cons
- can only be ordered from the factory
Buying Considerations of The Best Shocks For Jeep JK
Not all shock absorbers are created the same. Due to that, you need to consider several important factors before you even purchase a shock for your Wrangler.
Without further ado, here are the most important factors you have to consider when buying shocks for Jeeps:
01. Tube Type
There are basically two major categories that Jeep shock absorbers fall under. They’re as follows:
-
Monotube
A monotube shock absorber consists of a single pressure tube with a couple of pistons, namely the dividing pistons and the working pistons.
Due to its design, you can mount it upside down or perhaps right-side up without any issues since it will still work regardless of the positioning.
This type of shock absorber is the perfect choice if you prefer riding your Wrangler off-roads due to its better heat distribution keeps them cool even under varied terrains.
-
Twin-tube
As the name implies, a twin-tube shock absorber consists of two different parts. The first one is the external tube which serves as a hydraulic fluid reservoir. Meanwhile, the other part is the inner working tube.
Compared to a monotube, a twin-tube is ideal for highway driving than off-road. It’s also very affordable, though it tends to heat up pretty quickly when driving your jeep at high speeds.
02. Styles
Apart from the two major categories that shock absorbers fall under, they can be classified based on their styles. Your choice of a shock absorber will depend on the riding condition you’ll be taking your Jeep to. That said, here are the most common styles of Wrangler shock absorbers you can find:
-
Gas shocks
One of the most common styles of shock absorbers, a gas shock absorber, is filled with oil and inert nitrogen, which are sealed inside, thereby providing you with a cushion while riding. Since it’s capable of handling frequent bounces more effectively, it’s often the best choice for small vehicles.
-
Oil shocks
Compared to gas shocks, an oil shock absorber uses oil for cushioning your ride. It’s also the most economical option. The problem is that it can lose resistance fairly quickly, causing it to wear out quickly.
-
Overload shocks
Likewise known as coil-over shocks, an overload shock comes with a spring coil located around the cylinder. It’s designed to help stiffen the reflex action of the shock, making it an excellent choice for off-road vehicles like Wranglers and the like.
-
Standard shocks
As the name implies, these are shocks that come pre-installed in your Jeep upon purchase. Compared to the other styles of shock absorbers, standard shocks don’t have any special features. In fact, they won’t even last more than 100,000 miles.
03. Preferred Driving Condition
Another important factor you should consider when choosing a shock absorber for your Jeep is the driving condition you want to drive on.
It is an important consideration since it will help you decide on the strength of the shock absorber you must mount in your jeep.
For example, if you only want to drive on the highway, going for gas or standard shock will be good enough.
However, if you plan to take your Jeep on an off-road adventure, you will need a tougher shock capable of withstanding more bounce, such as the overload shock.
04. Compatibility with Your Jeep
You don’t want to buy a shock absorber that won’t even properly fit your Jeep.
To prevent this from happening, we highly recommend checking your preferred absorber and check whether it’s compatible with your JK’s make and model or not.
Just keep in mind that many aftermarket components are usually produced with a specific vehicle in mind.
To give you an idea, here are the following types of vehicles as well as their compatible shock absorber type (Wranglers belong to the off-road category):
- Off-road – monotube gas shock
- SUV – twin tube shock
- SUV (heavy-duty) – monotube gas shock
- Pickup – OEM replacement shock
05. Material Used for the Construction
Even if the shock absorber you picked for your Wrangler provides you with the best ride and control, it will still fall behind when you are required to change it after a few thousand miles of driving.
As a result, you’ll end up spending even more on shock absorbers – and this can seriously put a strain on your budget in the long run.
Therefore, even before deciding on a shock absorber that’s designed for JKs, you need to check its material first. There are several materials used for manufacturing a shock absorber, most of which are made of steel.
Most of the time, you’ll find steel shock absorbers to be the cheapest option on the market. The problem is that they’re somehow a hassle to install.
Some shocks are made of aluminum, making them quite light and adjustable. However, while they are quite convenient, they tend to be a lot more expensive.
Apart from the material, you should also check a shock absorber’s overall construction quality to ensure that it can provide you with the durability you’re looking for.
06. Ease of Installation
If you don’t mind installing the shock absorber on your Jeep by yourself, you should consider installation ease while purchasing.
You have to keep in mind that some shocks need further modifications for proper installation. And if you don’t know that, you’ll end up paying for a professional installation service.
However, if you still want to do the installation by yourself, make sure that the product includes a mounting kit as well as an instruction manual so you can proceed with the entire installation process on your own.
If your chosen shock absorber doesn’t require any modification, it should be relatively easy to install by following the specific instructions with the package.
07. Price
Lastly, you want to consider how much a shock absorber will cost you. You want to set a specific budget for a shock absorber or decide on how much you want to spend on that.
Afterward, try to look for the best Wrangler shock that falls within your budget.
In some cases, your vehicle will be a factor in whether you should spend less or more on a shock absorber. For example, if you have a lifted Jeep Wrangler, you should expect to spend more on a shock absorber than a normal JK.
FAQs Regarding The Best Shocks For Jeep JK
Q: Which is better: twin-tube or monotube shocks?
A: Monotubes and twin tubes are two different shock absorbers with very different functions and designs.
As explained earlier in the buying guide section, a monotube shock comes with a single tube in which all the components are found.
Inside a monotube system, you can find a shell case that acts as a cylinder. The other components are found within the cylinder, namely the oil, piston valve, and gas.
On the other hand, a twin-tube shock absorber consists of 2 cylinders: one inside the case and the other containing the piston valve that moves up and down inside it.
While each of them has its own function and features, the answer to which is the better overall choice goes to the monotube shock.
Because monotube shock absorbers are relatively easy to install, have a better response, and feature good damping ability. As a result, you can expect a smoother and less bumpy ride.
They’re also more durable and can tackle off-road driving conditions with ease. However, they do cost a lot more than their twin tube counterparts, but the benefits and advantages they offer can easily outweigh the initial cost.
Q: Do Jeeps have shocks or struts?
A: Like every other vehicle, Jeeps come with their own sets of shocks or struts. Apart from giving you a less bumpy ride, shocks or struts deal with the side-to-side motion to ensure that you remain safe while driving on the roads using your JK.
You will be able to tell whether your Jeep has a shock or a strut by knowing which specific area to look at. Shocks are fairly easy to spot since they resemble that what we normally see on bikes.
Meanwhile, struts can be a bit harder to find, but you can easily check them right inside the wheels of your Jeep, featuring a horizontal design.
Q: What do shock absorbers do?
A: As the name implies, shock absorbers “absorb” or neutralize the bouncy and vibrating effects that you experience when riding on varied terrain. Shock absorbers allow you to enjoy a really comfortable and smoother ride.
Aside from that, shock absorbers also help control your Jeep Wrangler’s movement, allowing you to optimize your vehicle’s braking performance while improving overall steering responsiveness.
Q: Why do shocks get worn out, and can they affect my driving?
A: Shock absorbers generally get worn out when you use your Jeep regularly. Other factors include the usual capacity you load into your jeep, the total distance traveled, as well as weather factors like cold and heat.
Interestingly, jeeps driven on city roads tend to have their shock absorbers worn out more quickly than jeeps used in off-road adventures.
Because of speed-reducing bands, the type of asphalt, high pedestrian crossings, and more.
Also, worn-out shock absorbers can drastically affect your driving performance. One of the most common pieces of evidence showing that worn-out shocks can affect driving can be found in quick-stopping gaps while driving.
As shock absorbers wear out, you will notice an increase in vibration while driving your Jeep.
Simply because your shock can no longer absorb the impact coming from the ground, it can eventually affect your comfort. It can even compromise your safety if left unattended.
Q: When should I replace my Jeep’s shocks?
A: As a Jeep owner, the need to replace its shock absorbers will depend on two conditions:
- If the shocks are worn out – you can confirm this when you notice constant bouncing when driving, even on a smooth road.
- If you consider lifting in Jeep, in which case you have to go for a longer shock.
Q: Should I go for OEM shocks or settle with aftermarket products instead?
A: For some Jeep owners, OEM shock absorbers could be considered the best and only appropriate replacement option for their vehicle. Moreover, it can install OEM shocks quickly in most specialized shops.
Unfortunately, OEM shocks are quite expensive. Due to that, a lot of Jeep owners go for aftermarket shock absorbers to save cash.
Compared to OEM shocks, aftermarket shocks are manufactured by various companies instead of the same company that manufactured your Wrangler.
Therefore, if you don’t do proper research, you might end up with a poor-quality aftermarket shock.
Fortunately, the products we’ve reviewed are all manufactured by well-known companies in the market, so you are assured of only quality shock absorbers.
Conclusion
Your choice of the best shocks for Jeep JK will boil down to personal preference as well as a few other factors.
If you plan to go off-road and enjoy a comfortable, smooth, and less bumpy ride despite the rocky terrain, then a monotube shock is best for you.
However, if you just want to ride your Wrangler in the city, then a twin-tube shock will do just fine.
