10 Top Units Tested: Best Deals On Shocks And Struts 2025

I remember the moment my old SUV started feeling like a boat on rough seas. Finding genuine value when replacing suspension components can be tough, but I’ve spent time testing different kits to narrow down the options. We’re looking for stability, durability, and most importantly, the best deals on shocks and struts that don’t compromise safety or ride quality. This comprehensive guide breaks down ten highly-rated suspension kits to help you restore your vehicle’s handling without emptying your wallet.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Detroit Axle – 8pc Struts Shocks Kit for 2009-2015 Honda…	View on Amazon
	AUTOMUTO Front Pair Complete Struts Spring Assembly Shock…	View on Amazon
	Rancho Quicklift Struts + Rear RS5000X Gas Shocks – Kit…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Shocks Kit for 14-18 Chevy…	View on Amazon
	579104 Front and Rear Complete Struts Shock Absorber Fit…	View on Amazon
	A-Premium Set (4) Front and Rear Complete Shock Absorber…	View on Amazon
	Peforway Front & Rear Complete Strut Assembly Shock…	View on Amazon
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – 8pc Struts Shocks Kit for 2013 2014…	View on Amazon
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil…	View on Amazon

Detroit Axle – 8pc Struts Shocks Kit for 2009-2015 Honda Pilot, 2 Front Struts with Coil Spring Assembly 2 Rear Shock Absorbers 4 Front Rear Sway Bars 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Replacement Suspension

This 8-piece kit from Detroit Axle is designed for the Honda Pilot owner who wants to replace nearly every major suspension component in one go. It offers a full restoration solution, replacing not only the front complete struts and rear shocks but also all four sway bar end links, which are often overlooked but critical for cornering stability. The components come ready to install, eliminating the need for specialized spring compressors.

Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive Kit: Includes 8 essential suspension components.
– Ready for Install: Strut assemblies are pre-loaded with coil springs.
– Rigorous Testing: Undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing.
– Warranty: Backed by an impressive 10-Year Warranty.

Pros:
– Excellent value, providing eight pieces in one package.
– Direct-fit replacement ensures hassle-free installation.
– Long warranty coverage provides peace of mind.

Cons:
– While complete, the ride quality might be slightly firmer than original OE parts.

Best for:
Honda Pilot owners seeking a complete suspension overhaul with maximum warranty coverage.

Expert Opinion: This is one of the best deals on shocks and struts if you prioritize completeness and longevity. Replacing the sway bar links simultaneously is smart preventative maintenance, saving labor costs down the line.

AUTOMUTO Front Pair Complete Struts Spring Assembly Shock Absorber Compatible with 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 for Chrysler Town Country, 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 for Dodge Grand Caravan

Minivan owners know the importance of a smooth ride, especially when hauling passengers. The AUTOMUTO front pair is designed specifically for popular Chrysler and Dodge minivans, offering a direct replacement for worn or leaking front suspension components. These struts are fully assembled, making them a great choice for DIYers looking to quickly resolve issues like excessive bouncing or poor braking performance caused by faulty struts.

Key features that stand out:
– Minivan Specific Fit: Engineered for Town & Country and Grand Caravan models.
– Easy Installation: Fully pre-assembled for a quicker swap.
– Improved Driving Stability: Designed to reduce vibration and enhance comfort.
– Meets OE Specification: High quality ensures reliable performance.

Pros:
– Significantly simplifies the installation process.
– Targets common symptoms of worn struts effectively.
– Provides a stable and comfortable ride.

Cons:
– This package only includes the front pair, meaning rear shocks must be purchased separately.

Best for:
Minivan owners who need to quickly and easily replace their front struts to restore daily driver comfort.

Expert Opinion: For vehicles like minivans that see heavy use, full assemblies are essential. This AUTOMUTO kit offers great ride improvement, but remember to verify you don’t have the Nivomat rear suspension before purchasing.

Rancho Quicklift Struts + Rear RS5000X Gas Shocks – Kit compatible with 07-16 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The Rancho Quicklift kit is a fantastic option for truck owners who use their Silverado or Sierra for more than just commuting. This setup includes the adjustable RS9000XL front struts and the rugged RS5000X rear shocks. The RS9000XL struts offer nine levels of damping adjustment, allowing you to fine-tune your ride quality based on whether you are towing heavy loads, running empty, or hitting some light trails.

Key features that stand out:
– Adjustable Damping: RS9000XL struts allow for nine settings.
– Enhanced Durability: Features a large 18mm nitro-carburized piston rod.
– Corrosion Resistance: Premium finish and protective boot ensure long life.
– Limited Lifetime Warranty: Backs the quality of both the struts and shocks.

Pros:
– Offers superior performance and versatility for towing and off-roading.
– Allows the driver to customize the ride feel easily.
– Highly durable construction built to resist corrosion.

Cons:
– This is a premium performance upgrade, making it a higher initial investment than basic OE replacements.

Best for:
Truck enthusiasts and those who regularly tow or haul heavy loads, requiring tunable suspension performance.

Expert Opinion: When looking for the best deals on shocks and struts for trucks, you must consider the use case. The adjustability of the Rancho system justifies the price point by giving owners true control over their vehicle’s handling under various conditions.

Detroit Axle – 6pc Struts Shocks Kit for 14-18 Chevy GMC Silverado Sierra 1500 Complete 2 Front Struts w/Coil Springs 2 Sway Bars 2 Rear Shock Absorbers 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Replacement Suspension

This Detroit Axle 6-piece kit is tailored specifically for newer model Silverado and Sierra 1500 trucks (4WD models). It’s designed to provide a comprehensive refresh of the suspension system, including complete front struts, rear shocks, and front sway bar links. The primary advantage here is the “ready-to-install” nature—you get the spring, strut, and mount all pre-assembled, saving significant time and specialized tools.

Key features that stand out:
– Truck Specific: Designed for 2014-2018 Chevy/GMC 1500 4WD.
– Exclusion Note: Does not fit models with Magnetic Ride Control or Electronic Suspension.
– Kit Components: Includes 2 front assemblies, 2 rear shocks, and 2 sway links.
– Tested Quality: Products undergo rigorous durability testing.

Pros:
– Excellent OE fitment for targeted truck models.
– All major components for a suspension refresh are included.
– Simplifies installation significantly.

Cons:
– Buyers must verify their vehicle does not have electronic suspension components, limiting compatibility.

Best for:
Owners of mid-generation 4WD Silverado/Sierra 1500 trucks seeking a reliable, non-electronic suspension replacement.

Expert Opinion: For heavy-duty vehicles, having the complete strut assembly is crucial. This kit ensures consistency across the suspension, which is necessary for maintaining factory ride height and stability when carrying loads.

579104 Front and Rear Complete Struts Shock Absorber Fit for for Chevy Avalanche 2007-2013, Suburban 2015-2018, Suburban 1500 & Tahoe 4WD 2007-2014, for GMC Yukon 2007-2019, Exc. Electronic Suspension

This versatile set covers a massive range of popular GM SUVs and Trucks, including the Tahoe, Yukon, and Suburban, making it an excellent inventory option for fleet managers or owners of multiple compatible vehicles. It provides four complete units (front struts and rear shocks), built with high-quality materials designed to withstand tough driving conditions. Like other premium options, it excludes electronic or specialized suspension types.

Key features that stand out:
– Broad Compatibility: Fits numerous full-size GM SUVs over several model years.
– Durable Construction: Built with strong materials for long-lasting reliability.
– 4-Piece Set: Provides full front and rear replacement units.
– Simple Install: Designed for straightforward installation without special skills.

Pros:
– Covers many popular, heavy-use vehicles.
– Ensures structural integrity and long mileage.
– Complete plug-and-play assembly.

Cons:
– The extensive compatibility list requires careful cross-referencing of exclusions like 22-inch wheels or RPO codes.

Best for:
Owners of classic/modern GM large SUVs who need a robust, non-electronic full suspension replacement.

Expert Opinion: The value of this kit lies in its wide application and robust build quality, crucial for large SUVs. The fact that it comes as a complete assembly for both front and rear greatly speeds up the overhaul process.

A-Premium Set (4) Front and Rear Complete Shock Absorber Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Compatible with Honda Civic 2006-2011 & Acura CSX 2006-2011 Sedan

The A-Premium set is specifically tailored for the sedan platforms of the 8th generation Honda Civic and the related Acura CSX. This is a four-piece, full assembly kit (front struts and rear shocks), ensuring your compact sedan gets a total suspension refresh. A standout feature is the inclusion of detailed specifications, including compressed and extended lengths, which aids in installation confidence and verifies fitment precisely.

Key features that stand out:
– Sedan Fitment: Specific design for Honda Civic/Acura CSX Sedan models.
– Detailed Specs: Provides exact measurements for length and stroke.
– Complete Kit: Includes struts, coils, mounts, and dust shields.
– 1-Year Guarantee: Backed by an unlimited-mileage warranty.

Pros:
– Excellent, precise fit for the specific sedan platforms.
– Detailed technical specifications help mechanics and DIYers.
– Restores the intended OE handling characteristics of the compact car.

Cons:
– The focus solely on sedan models means those with coupe or hatchback Civics must look elsewhere.

Best for:
Owners of 2006-2011 Honda Civic Sedans prioritizing an exact fit and OE-style ride quality.

Expert Opinion: For smaller cars, maintaining the correct ride height and damping ratio is crucial for handling. This A-Premium kit provides the precise components needed to restore the nimble, comfortable feel these Civics are known for.

Peforway Front & Rear Complete Strut Assembly Shock Absorber Compatible with 2008-2012 for Buick Enclave, 2009-2012 for Chevy Traverse, 2007-2012 for GMC Acadia (Set of 4) 172518 37315

Peforway provides a reliable, direct-fit solution for the popular GM Lambda platform crossovers (Enclave, Traverse, Acadia). This four-piece kit focuses on delivering premium performance through quality control and material science. They highlight that their design helps reduce tire wear and even slightly improves aerodynamic characteristics, potentially reducing fuel consumption over time—a great added benefit when seeking the best deals on shocks and struts.

Key features that stand out:
– Crossover Focus: Perfect fitment for the Buick/Chevy/GMC crossover trio.
– Performance Benefits: Aims to reduce fuel consumption and extend component life.
– Quality Control: Units pass indicator, friction, and temperature characteristic tests.
– Steel Construction: Manufactured from high-quality steel for structural integrity.

Pros:
– Excellent investment for long-term vehicle maintenance and efficiency.
– Rigorous internal testing ensures a safe and smooth ride.
– Direct replacement makes installation straightforward.

Cons:
– The performance claims, while positive, might not translate into a noticeable difference for all drivers compared to standard OE replacements.

Best for:
Crossover SUV owners focused on long-term vehicle health, durability, and maintaining family comfort.

Expert Opinion: These large crossovers put immense stress on suspension components. The focus on reducing wear and tear, coupled with thorough performance testing, makes the Peforway units a smart, budget-conscious investment for these platforms.

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs and Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2007-2018 Chevrolet Tahoe – Set of 4

This COMPLETESTRUTS set provides a massive 12-year range compatibility for the Chevy Tahoe, simplifying the replacement choice for owners of this long-running SUV body style. It’s a clean, four-piece kit (two front assemblies, two rear shocks) designed to restore OE ride quality without the complexity of electronic systems. The brand emphasizes a straightforward installation process for this high-volume vehicle.

Key features that stand out:
– Wide Model Year Range: Fits 2007 through 2018 Tahoe models.
– Kit Simplicity: Four primary components for a full suspension replacement.
– Exclusion Clarity: Clearly states incompatibility with magnetic/electronic suspension and large wheels.
– Manufacturer’s Warranty: Supported by a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Pros:
– Extremely convenient for owners of various model year Tahoes.
– Simple gas shock design ensures reliability and low maintenance.
– Restores ride height and stability quickly.

Cons:
– The one-year warranty is notably shorter compared to competitors like Detroit Axle.

Best for:
Chevrolet Tahoe owners needing a simple, reliable, and non-fancy replacement kit that covers a broad spectrum of years.

Expert Opinion: Simplicity often equates to reliability, especially with suspension components. This COMPLETESTRUTS kit cuts out the complexity, focusing only on providing solid, functional components necessary to get the Tahoe back to its factory feel.

Detroit Axle – 8pc Struts Shocks Kit for 2013 2014 2015 Chevy Malibu 2016 Malibu Limited, 2 Front Struts with Coil Spring 2 Rear Shock Absorbers 4 Front Rear Sway Bars Replacement Suspension

Detroit Axle delivers another comprehensive 8-piece bundle, this time targeting the popular Chevy Malibu sedan. By including four sway bar end links along with the complete struts and rear shocks, this kit addresses nearly every wear item in the suspension system. This is highly beneficial for sedans, which often see wear on end links due to sharp steering maneuvers in urban environments. The 10-year warranty is a major differentiator in this category.

Key features that stand out:
– Full Sedan Overhaul: 8 pieces ensure total suspension refresh.
– Sway Bar Links Included: Essential for maintaining tight handling.
– Robust Durability: Tested for impact, wear, and fatigue.
– Industry-Leading Warranty: Backed by a 10-Year Warranty.

Pros:
– Exceptional value proposition by bundling key components.
– Guarantees the stability and cornering capability are restored.
– The 10-year warranty is hard to beat for sedan components.

Cons:
– Installing the entire 8-piece kit requires significantly more labor time than just swapping the four major units.

Best for:
Chevy Malibu owners seeking maximum component replacement and security through a long-term warranty.

Expert Opinion: For a sedan replacement, finding best deals on shocks and struts usually means balancing cost and completeness. This Detroit Axle kit achieves that balance perfectly, ensuring the car handles ‘like new’ due to the inclusion of all related links.

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs and Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2013-2019 Ford Escape – Set of 4

The COMPLETESTRUTS kit for the modern Ford Escape is a straightforward, four-piece solution focusing on OE specifications. The primary benefit of this kit is its guarantee of an exact fit and the restoration of the original ride quality. The Escape is a popular compact SUV, and maintaining its comfortable and responsive handling is key for daily drivers. The assemblies arrive ready to bolt in, minimizing downtime.

Key features that stand out:
– Exact OE Specifications: Designed to match the factory fit and ride quality.
– Comprehensive 4-Piece Set: Front strut assemblies and rear shock absorbers.
– Direct Fit: Engineered for the 2013-2019 Ford Escape model years.
– Simplified Installation: No need for specialty spring compression tools.

Pros:
– Ensures the vehicle maintains its original feel and handling dynamics.
– High compatibility with a long model run of the Escape.
– Excellent entry-level price point for a full replacement.

Cons:
– Offers basic OE replacement quality, lacking performance features like adjustment or heavy-duty construction.

Best for:
Ford Escape owners who simply want to restore the vehicle to its factory comfort and stability with minimum fuss.

Expert Opinion: When searching for best deals on shocks and struts, simplicity for popular models is a huge factor. This COMPLETESTRUTS kit removes the guesswork for Escape owners, providing a reliable and inexpensive way to renew their vehicle’s suspension performance.

Practical Comparison and Buying Insights

When looking for the best deals on shocks and struts, context matters. It’s not just about the price tag, but the value derived from durability, complexity, and installation time.

Focus on Completeness vs. Performance:
Kits like the Detroit Axle 8pc sets offer the maximum value in terms of component count, including sway bar links, making them ideal for a total suspension restoration where budget is key and you want a long warranty. On the other hand, the Rancho Quicklift Struts sacrifice quantity (no sway bar links) for superior, adjustable performance and heavy-duty use, perfect for truck owners who tow regularly.

Installation Time and Complexity:
For most popular vehicles, selecting a complete strut assembly (like those offered by AUTOMUTO, A-Premium, or COMPLETESTRUTS) will drastically cut down on installation labor. You eliminate the dangerous step of compressing the coil spring. If you are a DIYer, look for the term “complete assembly.”

Heavy Duty Vehicle Considerations:
If you own a large SUV or truck (Tahoe, Yukon, Silverado), always confirm the exclusions. Products like the 579104 GM SUV kit and the Detroit Axle truck kits explicitly exclude magnetic or electronic suspension systems, which require vastly more expensive components. Choosing a standard gas shock replacement guarantees you are accessing the best deals on shocks and struts without accidentally buying incompatible premium parts.

Final Verdict: Our Top Picks for Value

Choosing the right kit depends entirely on your vehicle type and maintenance goals. Here is our breakdown of the best value kits across different categories:

Best Comprehensive Value (Warranty & Components):
The Detroit Axle 8pc Struts Shocks Kits (for both Honda Pilot and Chevy Malibu) stand out due to their inclusion of sway bar links and an unmatched 10-Year Warranty. For a full suspension refresh on a budget, these are unbeatable.

Best for Truck Performance and Adjustability:
If you require more than just a factory ride, the Rancho Quicklift Struts + Rear RS5000X provides genuine performance upgrades and the ability to tune the suspension for towing or off-road conditions—an excellent long-term investment.

Best for Simple, Reliable SUV/Crossover Replacement:
For general family vehicles like the Ford Escape or the GM Lambda crossovers (Enclave/Traverse/Acadia), the COMPLETESTRUTS and Peforway kits offer direct-fit, high-quality complete assemblies that restore factory handling efficiently and cost-effectively.

Best Deals On Shocks And Struts FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between a shock and a strut assembly, and which one offers the best deals on shocks and struts?

A shock absorber is a standalone component that only dampens suspension movement. A strut is a structural component that incorporates a shock absorber within its assembly, supporting the vehicle’s weight, steering, and alignment. Complete strut assemblies (which include the strut, coil spring, and mount pre-assembled) generally offer the best deal because they significantly reduce installation labor costs and time compared to swapping individual components.

Q2: How do I know if I need to replace my shocks and struts?

Common signs include excessive bouncing or “floating” after hitting bumps, the vehicle nose-diving when braking heavily, uneven tire wear, fluid leaking from the component body, or a noticeable decrease in stability when cornering. If you’re experiencing these issues, it’s definitely time to start looking for suspension kit replacements.

Q3: Are “complete strut assemblies” reliable, or are piecing together parts better?

Complete strut assemblies are highly reliable and are the preferred choice for most standard applications, especially when seeking the best deals on shocks and struts. They are factory-assembled, ensuring the coil spring is correctly matched and seated, guaranteeing proper ride height and performance without requiring a dangerous spring compressor tool.

Q4: How often should I look for best deals on shocks and struts?

The lifespan varies greatly depending on driving habits and road conditions, but generally, shocks and struts should be inspected every 50,000 miles and often need replacement between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. If you drive often on rough roads or frequently tow heavy loads, this interval may be shorter.

Q5: Why do some complete kits exclude vehicles with “Electronic Suspension”?

Electronic (or magnetic) suspension systems use sensors and specialized fluids to dynamically adjust damping in real-time. These components are highly complex and proprietary. The budget-friendly complete strut assemblies reviewed here are passive (non-adjustable) gas or hydraulic units and cannot communicate with the electronic control unit (ECU), hence the exclusion.

Q6: If I only replace the front struts, will it negatively affect my car’s handling?

It is strongly recommended to replace suspension components (shocks and struts) in pairs (both front or both rear) to maintain balanced damping and handling. While replacing only the front may solve immediate stability issues, having brand-new components up front and worn components in the rear (or vice versa) can lead to uneven wear and unpredictable handling characteristics.