A shock can be the difference between a bumpy and comfortable ride. The fact that you landed on this page indicates that you’re having difficulty choosing the right shocks for your Dodge Ram 1500. Well, to be honest, you’re not alone, and we’ve all been there at some point in our lives.
We wrote this dodge ram 1500 shocks review so that you don’t have to spend hours on the internet looking for your perfect match. Leave the brainstorming to us while you sit back and enjoy all the product descriptions before adding it to your cart.
How do I know if my Ram 1500 shocks are bad?
There are several signs that your Ram 1500 shocks may be bad or worn out. Here are some common indicators:
Excessive bouncing: If you notice that your vehicle is bouncing excessively, especially after going over bumps or rough terrain, it could be a sign that your shocks are no longer absorbing the impact properly.
Poor handling: Worn-out shocks cause your vehicle to feel unstable and unresponsive, especially when making turns or driving at high speeds.
Noise: Worn-out shocks produce a knocking or clunking noise, especially over bumps or rough roads.
Best Rated Heavy Duty Shocks for Dodge Ram 1500 4×4: Top Pick
Image | Name | Rating | Compatibility | Price |
 | Bilstein 24-187367 5100 Series Front Shock | 2011 Ram 1500 | ||
 | Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Kit | 2014-2019 Ram 1500 | ||
 | Monroe 58640 Load Adjusting Shock Absorber | 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 Dodge Ram | ||
 | Detroit Axle Front Strut & Rear Shock Kit | 2006, 2007, 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 | ||
 | AutoParts Front Shock Absorber Set | 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 Dodge Ram |
Best Shocks For Dodge Ram 1500 4×4: Reviews & Guide
Here is a compilation of high performing shocks for your Dodge Ram 1500. The reviews have been fragmented into three distinct parts – description for a detailed insight, highlighted features for to-the-point representation, and pros-cons for your scrutiny. Let’s dive in.
1. Bilstein 5100 series front shock for dodge ram 1500 09
Adjustable ride height
Mono-tube internal design
46 mm wide piston diameter
This bad boy needs absolutely no additional hardware for installation, making it one of the most easy-to-setup shocks in the market. Since these shocks are user-friendly, you can forget about the generic install struggles. And this isn’t even the best part!
You are free to enjoy the benefits right from the moment you’re done with the install. Which, by the way, shouldn’t take you more than an hour even if you have zero expertise. Moreover, you do not require complicated tools. Instead, a set of the right wrenches is more than enough for the entire project.
But remember that this thing doesn’t come with a boot cover. So you’ll need the cover that comes with your stock. However, we would all appreciate it if these shocks did come with one. Lastly, do not mistake the product for a pair. If you want two, you’ll have to order two.
The shock is quite reputed in the market as one of the best shocks for dodge ram 1500 4×4 as it levels the truck perfectly. If you have little to no experience in shock setups, then consider purchasing this thing. As far as the build quality is concerned, it’s nothing special. Simply put, it gets the job done nicely.
2. Bilstein 5100 series shock kit for dodge ram 1500 4wd 2009-14
Durable build quality
Direct bolt-on installation
Constructed with top-grade aluminum
This kit consists of two products. The first one is the Bilstein 24-187367 (Product no. 1 from our list), which you’ll be able to use as the front shocks. And for the rear shocks, you get the 24-187374. Since the latter hasn’t been described yet, we’ll only be focusing on that here.
The first thing you need to keep in mind is that they are undoubtedly one of the best shocks for dodge ram 1500 4×4. Not just because they are made up of high-grade aluminum but for their perfect fitment as well. With this thing, you won’t be facing the wobble issue that everyone warns you about.
Its knack for nailing stability makes it a well-reputed kit in the community. From amateurs to professionals, everyone tends to choose this kit over the others for their construction and build quality and commendable reliability.
Are you looking for the best value for money? Grab this without further ado. Say goodbye to nose-diving when braking because the performance is bound to exceed your expectations.
3. Monroe shock absorber and coil spring
Ergonomic design
Reliable for long trips
Strong construction quality
Control’ and ‘Durability’ are the two words you can use to describe this product best. This is a perfect shock for those who don’t like shopping for car parts too often. The durability feature will allow you to stick to this absorber until you opt for an upgrade.
Doubtlessly this is one of the best shocks for the 2004 dodge ram 1500 as it helps you get rid of the rear end stiffness issue. You also have the option not to lift your car if you so wish. In case you feel like keeping height the same as before, it’s doable.
This shock does not require a lot of expertise to install and maintain. But don’t let that fool into underestimating it, as once you have it installed, it’s going to work wonders on your truck. However, remember that you need a little more than just your entry-level skill set to install the absorber properly.
There’s a myriad of possibilities when you go for this Monroe shock absorber. This thing defeats even the best shocks for 2004 dodge ram 1500 4×4 with their fluon-banded piston construction. But, if you don’t like putting so much effort into performance optimization, then consider moving onto the next product on our list.
4. Detroit axle rear shock absorbers for 2006-2008 dodge ram 1500 4wd
Appropriate for standard lift height
Well designed to ensure a perfect fit
Trustworthy companion for off-roading
This shock is designed to take a beating. Meaning – this thing is prepared to be your mate while you ride that truck all across the bumpy roads and muddy hills. Not to mention their well-thought design that adds to their efficiency. More often than not, you’ll find most off-road truckers using this shock for their daily hustle.
After your installation is done, you won’t notice any issues in the front shocks right off the bat. But you may find (very rarely) that the rear shock is misaligned. This problem is easily fixable by using an adaptor. Or you may go for the shocks for dodge ram 1500 with leveling kit for best results!
This kit has a very impressive fit. In other words, you won’t be facing the generic fitment issues of most shock absorber kits out there in the market
These shocks will take you quite some time to install, and there’s nothing extraordinary about their build quality. This is also why it won’t cost you much.
If you’re looking forward to finding something budget-friendly, then this is your thing. However, you might want to go for other products if durability is your priority.
5. Bilstein 24-187510 rear shock for dodge ram 1500
No fitment issues
Easy to use and maintain
Pulls heavy loads effortlessly
Anybody who has done his fair share of research can vouch for the fact that Bilstein likes to take challenges. This time the challenge was to deliver something exemplary to the community without having to over-complicate things. And alas, they were successful in doing so with their 24-187510 rear shocks.
If you skim through the internet and make a list of the best shocks for dodge ram 1500 2wd, you’re bound to come across this thing. But before you buy this thing, remember that they are not sold as a pair. So make sure to add two to the cart before checkout; otherwise, you’ll be making a mistake.
With these shocks, you can finally say goodbye to the bumpy rides. The tire-road contact is so constant that the irregularities are smoothened. Unfortunately, the rear shock isn’t adjustable. But don’t let that discourage you as it can give you the upper hand if you’re looking for easy-to-use products.
You’re going to be able to tell the difference in the steering tightness almost immediately after you’re done. We know that it can be a little intimidating for those without a lot of experience. But it has arguably one of the best builds among all the other shocks mentioned in this dodge ram 1500 shocks review.
6. Bilstein 5100 series front shock absorber set for dodge ram 1500
Adjustable valve discs
Factory default zinc plating
Expandable up to 2.75 inches
If you like choosing your shocks dianoetically and not by user ratings alone, then this is the right product for you. This shock is the mere compilation of all features from the best heavy duty shocks for dodge ram 1500.
The absorber is zinc plated, and the installation process is relatively simple. But keep in mind that you will need a spring compressor for the setup. You can buy an inexpensive one from the hardware store or simply rent one from the mechanic.
You may call this thing the jack of all trades and the master of quite a lot. They come with a fascinating adjustable valve feature. And the fact that they adjust themselves automatically is the cherry on top. Are you a big fan of durable and long-lasting options? Then you should get this thing.
Not only do the aluminum shocks offer excellent service, but they are quite user-friendly as well. With this product, you won’t feel its magic right after you have installed it. But as soon as you drive your trucks a couple of miles, the adjustment starts to kick in. And that’s where the real fun begins!
Since Bilstein has tried their best to nail durability and sturdiness with this shock set, naturally, the price is more than average. If you have a substantial budget, then this should undoubtedly be your top pick.
7. DTA rear shocks for 2006-2008 ram 1500 4wd
Perfect for long trips
Black powder-coated tube
Appropriate for rough usage
This shock set offers easy mounting and the best handling for your truck. The set takes care of hours of careful picking through a plethora of options. Looking for a well-balanced set that has no alignment issues whatsoever? Then add this to your cart without further delay.
DriveTech America has a reputation for making shock absorbers that are manifold stable than most OEMs out there. The set consists of two rear shocks and two front struts. Their tendency to release balanced and well-performing shocks genuinely come to light through the 70004.
Moreover, the rear shocks alone can handle adverse weather conditions like a piece of the set. And since they come in a group that complements each other, you will start to enjoy the fruits of your labor right after you’re done installing.
As the entire set of shocks is practically light and easy to work with, it won’t take you long to get used to them. We recommend starting slow and letting the shocks find their sweet spot by themselves. Once you’re past the adjustment phase, you can further fine-tune the feel for an optimal experience.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Shocks on a Dodge Ram?
When you notice a bumpy ride or hear clunking noises in your Dodge Ram 1500, it’s likely time to replace your shocks. But how much does it cost to replace shocks on a Dodge Ram?
We’ll answer that question and provide all the necessary information to replace your shocks. We’ll cover the factors that affect the cost, the average cost of parts and labor.
Factors That Affect the Cost: Several factors can affect the cost of replacing shocks on your Dodge Ram. Some of these factors include:
- The make and model of your truck
- The type of shocks you choose
- The quality of the shocks you choose
- The extent of the damage to your existing shocks
- The cost of labor in your area
Average Cost of Parts and Labor:
The average cost of replacing shocks on a Dodge Ram depends on the abovementioned factors. However, as a rough estimate, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $800 for parts and labor. This price range includes both front and rear shocks.
Here’s a breakdown of the average cost of parts and labor:
- Parts: $80 to $500 per shock
- Labor: $120 to $300 per shock
How long do shocks last on a Dodge Ram?: The lifespan of shocks on a Dodge Ram depends on driving conditions and other factors. However, you can expect shocks to last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles on average.
Can I replace shocks myself?: Yes! While it is possible to replace shocks yourself, it is a complex job requiring specialized tools and knowledge. We recommend taking your truck to a certified mechanic to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
Can I drive with bad shocks?: It is not recommended to drive with bad shocks as they can affect the handling and stability of your truck, making it more difficult to control.
Additionally, driving with bad shocks causes further damage to your suspension system, leading to more expensive repairs down the road.
Watch The Video: How to Replace Front Shocks Dodge RAM 1500
Buying Guide: Things to Consider Before Buying Shocks for Dodge Ram 1500
It’s not wise to walk into a store looking for a shock without any prior knowledge/research. But to save you from that hassle, we have enlisted six factors that you must look at. The following things will help you evaluate whether a shock is worth spending on or not.
Compatibility
Check whether or not the shock is compatible with your version of the vehicle. To verify the compatibility, check our dodge ram 1500 shocks comparison table, mentioned at the beginning of this article.
After all, there’s no point looking into a shock that won’t fit your truck in the first place. Once you find the right product that matches the version of your Ram 1500, you can move on to considering other factors.
Shock Type
There are various sorts of shocks available in the current market. For the sake of effortless delivery, we’ll not be diving too deep today.
Commonly, shocks are of two types – Mono-tube and Twin-tube. The response and installation-ease of mono-tube shocks are better than twin-tubes. So, they also cost significantly more. At the same time, twin-tubes are inexpensive options for those with low budgets but require quite a lot of maintenance.
Truck Type
Is your truck lifted? Or have you decided to keep it in the stock configuration that it came in? All these answers play a crucial role in determining whether your preferred shock is suitable for you or not.
So take a look under the carriage and behind the wheels. Take note of what you see and then head to the store with that information for the best results.
Dimensions (Shock Diameter)
Check out the dimensions of the shock before making the purchase. To be precise, we want you to be aware of the shock diameter you are going for. Generally, wider diameters mean better performance. But if you’re going to go light on your wallet, then consider selecting the narrower options.
Let’s say you want to go for the broader options but do not have enough budget. Under such circumstances, you can seek help from our list where we’ve listed the best shocks for dodge ram 1500 that are both wide and inexpensive.
Build Quality
Naturally, your shocks have to go through a lot of pressure before they can satisfy you. Not only does it have to stand up for your weight but that of the car as well. To make rides even more enjoyable for both you and your family, you must go for durable options.
Of course, a shock with a sturdy build quality will last longer. This also means that you won’t have to revisit the store for aftermarket parts over and over again—a great way to save both time and money.
Installation
Let’s assume you managed to get your hands on the best shocks for dodge ram 1500 4×4. But if you don’t have a certain level of expertise, you will struggle a lot while installing the shocks. So, it’s important that you scout for a shock that suits your skill.
In other words, a difficult-to-install shock may be suitable for your car, but the struggle is honestly not worth it. You can either resort to a mechanic’s aid or simply choose a shock that doesn’t have a complicated installation process.
Specific Needs
Last but not least, the prime prerequisite should always be your personal needs. What are you going to do with your Dodge Ram 1500? Will you be going on a lot of off-road trips?
Or are you planning on a few trips to the outskirts only? These should be critical to determine whether you should make that purchase or not.
Important FAQs’ of Dodge Ram 1500 Shocks
Which shocks give the smoothest ride?
AutoParts Front Shock Absorber Set employs an adjustable tuning system to offer its users the smoothest rides. With this installed, you start to forget that bumps and potholes exist on the road you ride to and work.
Does my Ram 1500 have shocks or struts?
Open your vehicle manual and turn to the ‘suspension system.’ You can also check beneath the carriage. Shocks are vertical and look like compressors. In comparison, struts are horizontal and appear as if they are just an extension of the wheel.
How long do Ram 1500 shocks last?
The stock shocks on the Ram 1500 last somewhere until you have accumulated 30 to 50 thousand miles on it (with a little off-roading). The depletion starts after it hits the 40 thousand mile margin. From there, it’s nothing but downhill.
Which brand of shocks is the best?
Bilstein is the current industry leader for its impressive shock design and performance. Lately, they have also been offering tremendous value for the money, making their product accessible to many customers.
Can you repair shock absorbers?
Yes, you can always repair or recondition the shock absorber. But if your shocks don’t work as they used to before, we recommend replacement over repair.
Final Words
AutoParts Dodge Ram 1500 Front Shock Absorber Set leads our dodge ram 1500 shocks review with their unique approach to ensuring comfort for the users. But if you find them to be slightly expensive, then you can always resort to the Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Kit for Dodge Ram 1500 4WD for a luxury experience.
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