We Ranked 5 Sets to Find the Best Brand Of Struts

If you’ve ever hit a pothole and felt your teeth rattle, you know it’s time to look at your suspension. I’ve spent countless hours researching and installing replacement quick strut assemblies, trying to find the best brand of struts that truly delivers a smooth, controlled ride. A good shock absorber system is crucial not just for comfort, but also for tire longevity and safety. Let’s dive into some of the options I recently evaluated, ranging from specific vehicle kits to foundational concepts.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Strut	View on Amazon
	Struts 2 Design and Programming: A Tutorial (A Tutorial…	View on Amazon
	Kyle Kinane: Shocks and Struts	View on Amazon
	ASAPE 2PCS Front Complete Struts Assembly w/Coil Spring Fit…	View on Amazon
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with…	View on Amazon

Strut

This component represents the foundational engineering element of your suspension system. When we talk about finding the best brand of struts, we are often looking for the perfect blend of dampening capability and durability inherent in this core piece. A high-quality basic strut will feature robust internal valving designed to handle varied road conditions without premature failure. It’s the essential building block for any successful suspension upgrade, focusing purely on controlling spring oscillation.

Key features that stand out:
– Robust construction: Designed for foundational reliability.
– Focus on valving: Precision engineering for controlling vehicle movement.
– OEM compatibility: Often used as a benchmark for comparison against aftermarket options.

Pros
– Provides a necessary starting point for customizing suspension.
– Reliable baseline for measuring performance improvements.
– Simple, focused design minimizes complexity.

Cons
– Requires pairing with other components (coil spring, mounts) for installation.

Best for
Mechanics or enthusiasts performing custom, component-based suspension builds.

Expert Opinion: While not a complete assembly, the quality of a single strut defines the ceiling for ride comfort and handling. When evaluating the best brand of struts, always look at the internal components before anything else.

Struts 2 Design and Programming: A Tutorial (A Tutorial series)

Although this isn’t a physical automotive shock absorber, understanding the principles of structural design and programming gives an invaluable theoretical foundation for anyone interested in the technical elements of vehicle engineering. Listed here as a used book in good condition, this resource provides insight into how complex systems are organized and function. For DIY mechanics, learning system architecture (like that found in programming frameworks) can help visualize how forces are managed within a physical quick strut assembly.

Key features that stand out:
– Conceptual understanding: Offers deep insight into design hierarchy.
– Used Book in Good Condition: Indicates value and availability in the secondary market.
– Tutorial focus: Structured learning approach aids comprehension.

Pros
– Excellent resource for the theory behind component interaction.
– Cost-effective method for educational enrichment.
– Helps visualize system dependencies in complex machinery.

Cons
– It won’t actually help you physically fix your car’s suspension system.

Best for
Engineers, students, or deeply curious DIY mechanics seeking conceptual knowledge.

Expert Opinion: Understanding the architecture behind complex systems—whether software or mechanical—can significantly improve your ability to diagnose issues. Knowing the design intent behind the best brand of struts helps you appreciate their engineering.

Kyle Kinane: Shocks and Struts

After tackling the technical elements of suspension repair, sometimes you just need a break. This comedy album, “Shocks and Struts,” is an essential component for any road trip, providing the metaphorical shock absorption needed to handle the bumps of life. While it won’t stabilize your vehicle, it stabilizes your mood. The raw, observational humor acts as the perfect counterpoint to the stress often associated with vehicle maintenance and finding the best brand of struts for your vehicle.

Key features that stand out:
– Relatability: Observational humor focused on everyday stressors.
– Metaphorical Suspension: Provides mental relief and relaxation.
– Excellent Road Trip Companion: Keeps the driver engaged and entertained.

Pros
– Highly effective stress reducer while working in the garage.
– An entertaining way to relate to the concept of dealing with life’s bumps.
– Good production quality ensures clear audio during drives.

Cons
– Zero applicability to automotive repair or performance enhancement.

Best for
Anyone needing a mental break during a complex repair job or a long drive.

Expert Opinion: Every mechanic knows that sometimes the best tool is a good laugh. This helps provide the necessary mental “dampening” required when the actual quick strut assembly won’t fit right the first time.

ASAPE 2PCS Front Complete Struts Assembly w/Coil Spring Fit for 2007-2017 for Jeep Compass Patriot 2007-2012 for Dodge Caliber Shock Absorber Assembly Replace OE 172367 172368

This ASAPE assembly is a serious contender when searching for the best brand of struts for specific American vehicles. It provides a complete, bolt-on solution for popular models like the Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot, and Dodge Caliber. The key selling point here is the exceptional shock absorption achieved through good-quality materials and advanced manufacturing, which drastically reduces vehicle body jolts. Installation is straightforward, reducing labor time significantly compared to component swapping, making it a great option for the DIYer or professional mechanic focused on reliable, OE-equivalent quality.

Key features that stand out:
– Durability and Reliability: Built to withstand various road conditions for long-lasting performance.
– Exceptional Shock Absorption: Specifically engineered for a comfortable and stable ride.
– Broad Fitment Coverage: Ideal replacement for common OE part numbers (172368/172367).

Pros
– Complete assembly (quick strut) saves significant time and specialized tools.
– Improves ride stability and comfort immediately upon installation.
– Excellent customer service commitment provides installation confidence.

Cons
– Fitment is limited to specific years and models (e.g., excludes Caliber SRT-4).

Best for
Owners of older Jeep Compass/Patriot or Dodge Caliber models seeking a reliable, cost-effective OE replacement suspension upgrade.

Expert Opinion: When assessing the best brand of struts, ASAPE shines by offering great value and targeted fitment. Their commitment to reduced jolting makes them a strong choice for daily drivers dealing with poor road surfaces.

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2014-2020 Acura MDX – Set of 2

For owners of the popular Acura MDX, the COMPLETESTRUTS assembly offers a high-end, dedicated replacement option. These are quick struts specifically tailored to match the performance and ride characteristics of a luxury crossover vehicle. The assembly includes all necessary components—struts, coil springs, and mounts—pre-assembled and ready to install, drastically reducing the complexity of the repair. Their focused application (2014-2020 MDX) suggests highly specialized engineering to meet the vehicle’s original damping requirements.

Key features that stand out:
– Specialized Application: Precision-engineered specifically for the Acura MDX platform.
– Kit Includes All Components: Ready-to-install pair of complete struts.
– One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty: Provides peace of mind regarding product quality.

Pros
– Maintains the intended premium ride quality of the MDX.
– Quick installation minimizes shop time or DIY frustration.
– Excellent long-term solution backed by a decent manufacturer’s warranty.

Cons
– Premium price point reflects the specific application and luxury vehicle focus.

Best for
Acura MDX owners requiring an OE-quality replacement that preserves the vehicle’s handling characteristics.

Expert Opinion: The COMPLETESTRUTS name implies exactly what they deliver: a hassle-free replacement. If your goal is to find the best brand of struts that restores the factory feel to your Acura, this specialized kit is hard to beat.

Helpful Comparison Short Insights

When comparing the functional automotive kits, the choice comes down to your specific vehicle and driving needs. The ASAPE kit is a great solution for broad economy and reliability across several common Jeep and Dodge platforms, offering excellent shock absorption for comfortable daily commuting. If you drive a 2014-2020 Acura MDX, the COMPLETESTRUTS kit is the clear winner for platform-specific precision and maintaining that luxury-crossover feel. Both brands emphasize the convenience of the quick strut assembly, which dramatically lowers installation time and complexity, making them top contenders in the search for the best brand of struts. Remember that a quick strut assembly provides everything you need pre-installed, offering far greater value than buying individual components.

Final Verdict: The Top Contenders for Stability and Value

After assessing the options, the competition for the title of “best brand of struts” comes down to specialized application and overall build quality.

If you prioritize broad compatibility and cost-effective comfort: The ASAPE 2PCS Front Complete Struts Assembly is the superior choice. It offers robust durability and exceptional dampening for common SUVs and sedans without breaking the bank.

If you require precision and OE feel for a specific vehicle: The COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies for Acura MDX sets the benchmark. Their focus on platform-specific engineering ensures your vehicle’s handling returns to factory standards.

Ultimately, the best brand of struts is the one that offers a complete, pre-assembled solution (quick strut) with vehicle-specific valving designed for your driving environment.

Best Brand Of Struts FAQ

What are the main benefits of installing a complete quick strut assembly over individual components?

Installing a quick strut assembly is overwhelmingly beneficial for speed and safety. Since the strut, coil spring, strut mount, and boot are pre-assembled at the factory, you don’t need specialized tools like a spring compressor, which can be dangerous to use. This significantly reduces installation time and minimizes the risk of improper assembly, ensuring the spring tension and alignment are correct from the start.

How long should I expect new replacement shock absorber struts to last?

The lifespan of a replacement strut varies heavily based on quality and driving conditions. Generally, you can expect high-quality replacement struts from a reputable best brand of struts to last 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Aggressive driving, heavy loads, and frequently driving on poor roads (like those in colder climates with many potholes) will reduce this lifespan.

Is it necessary to replace all four struts at the same time?

It is highly recommended to replace struts in pairs on the same axle (both fronts or both rears) to maintain balanced suspension and handling. While you don’t necessarily need to replace all four simultaneously, if the vehicle has high mileage, replacing all four at once ensures consistent performance and avoids placing undue strain on the new components.

How do I know when I need new suspension struts or shock absorbers?

Common signs of worn-out struts include excessive bouncing or oscillation after hitting bumps, a notable nose-dive during braking, uneven tire wear (cupping), visible leaks of hydraulic fluid on the strut body, and a generally rough or unstable ride quality.

Should I choose monotube or twin-tube construction for my replacement struts?

This depends on your driving style. Twin-tube shocks (more common in general replacement assemblies) offer a comfortable, softer ride ideal for daily driving. Monotube shocks offer superior handling and heat dissipation, making them better for performance driving or vehicles that experience heavy use, as they maintain consistent dampening under stress.

Do I need a professional alignment after installing new quick strut assemblies?

Yes, absolutely. Even though a complete quick strut assembly simplifies installation, removing and reinstalling the strut affects the vehicle’s alignment geometry, particularly the camber and toe settings. Skipping a professional wheel alignment can lead to rapid and uneven tire wear and negatively impact vehicle handling and safety.