7 Best Shocks And Struts For Cars Tested in 2025

When the suspension on my daily driver started feeling like a pogo stick, I knew it was time for an upgrade. That familiar bouncy ride and the dipping when I braked were clear signs of worn components. Finding the absolute best shocks and struts for cars isn’t just about reducing noise; it dramatically improves safety, handling, and overall ride comfort. I’ve put several popular options through their paces, focusing specifically on complete quick strut assemblies that simplify installation. If you’re looking for tested, reliable options that offer maximum value, this is the guide you need.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	AUTOSAVER88 Front Pair Complete Quick Struts Rear shocks…	View on Amazon
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – Struts Shocks for FWD 2008 2009 2010…	View on Amazon
	KUIPERAUTO 4PCS Front and Rear Struts Shocks Absorbers…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – RWD Struts Kit for 2015-2019 Ford F-150,…	View on Amazon
	Vextone – Complete Front Struts Shocks Assembly – Fit for…	View on Amazon
	MOSTPLUS 4PCS Front+Rear Complete Struts Shock Assembly…	View on Amazon

AUTOSAVER88 Front Pair Complete Quick Struts Rear shocks Compatible with 2004-2012 Chevy Malibu, 2007-2009 Saturn Aura, 2005-2009 Pontiac G6

This complete assembly is an excellent solution for owners of popular GM sedans looking for a full suspension refresh without the hassle of dismantling the old strut. AUTOSAVER88 provides everything needed—struts, coil springs, mount, and isolator—all pre-assembled. This means significantly reduced installation time and complexity, making it a great choice for DIY mechanics or those looking to save on labor costs. It’s designed to meet OE performance requirements, ensuring your vehicle regains its original handling stability and ride quality. The seamless, bolt-on design is the key benefit here.

Key features that stand out:
– Complete Package: Includes all necessary components (coil springs, mount, boot, bumper kit)
– Safe & Simple Installation: Features buckle holes that correspond with existing ones, allowing easy replacement without disassembling the previous strut structure
– Broad Compatibility: Fits multiple popular mid-sized GM vehicles across several model years

Pros:
– True quick strut assembly saves significant installation time
– Components are built to meet OE performance standards
– Excellent fitment reported across compatible models

Cons:
– While reliable, they are generally focused on restoring factory ride, not heavy performance tuning.

Best for: Value-conscious owners of compatible GM vehicles seeking factory-level ride restoration and simple installation.

Expert Opinion: This set is highly recommended for tackling common issues like abnormal noises or vehicle dipping. The fact that the entire unit is pre-assembled minimizes the risk of installation errors common with spring compressors.

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs and Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2013-2015 Honda Civic Sedan – Set of 4

When refreshing a popular sedan like the Honda Civic, precision and ride quality are critical. COMPLETESTRUTS offers a full set of four suspension components designed specifically to match OE (Original Equipment) specifications for the 2013-2015 Civic Sedan models. This focus on OE design ensures that the handling characteristics remain predictable and comfortable, just as the manufacturer intended. The kit includes both front quick strut assemblies and rear shock absorbers, providing a complete suspension solution in one purchase.

Key features that stand out:
– Exact Fit: Specifically designed after OE specifications for 2013-2015 Honda Civic Sedan (excluding Coupe and SI models)
– Full Set: Includes two front complete strut assemblies and two rear shock absorbers
– Focus on Ride Quality: Engineered to restore the smooth, intended feel of the vehicle

Pros:
– Guarantees OE-level fit and ride performance
– Comprehensive four-piece kit for a full suspension overhaul
– High durability reported by users

Cons:
– Compatibility is highly specific, excluding coupe and sport models.

Best for: Honda Civic Sedan owners prioritizing precise, factory-matched ride quality and seamless installation.

Expert Opinion: For vehicles like the Civic, which are known for their reliable, smooth ride, sticking closely to OE specifications is key. This COMPLETESTRUTS package delivers that exact balance of quality and fitment.

Detroit Axle – Struts Shocks for FWD 2008 2009 2010 Honda Odyssey Complete 2 Front Quick Install Ready Struts with Coil Spring Assembly 2 Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement Suspension Kit

Detroit Axle is known for providing durable, complete suspension kits, and this set for the Honda Odyssey minivan is no exception. This package delivers immediate improvement in ride stability and handling, which is crucial for minivans often loaded with passengers or cargo. The front quick struts arrive complete and ready for installation, eliminating the need for special tools typically required to compress springs. Their commitment to quality is backed by rigorous impact, wear, and fatigue testing, giving you confidence in the long-term performance of these components.

Key features that stand out:
– No Special Tools Required: Complete quick install ready struts for the front
– Rigorous Testing: Products undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing for reliability
– Long-Term Warranty: Backed by a strong 10-Year Warranty

Pros:
– Quick installation minimizes vehicle downtime
– Excellent warranty coverage provides peace of mind
– Significant improvement in stability for heavily loaded minivans

Cons:
– Only compatible with Front Wheel Drive (FWD) models.

Best for: Honda Odyssey owners who need reliable, high-durability best shocks and struts for cars and want the protection of a long-term warranty.

Expert Opinion: The 10-year warranty offered by Detroit Axle speaks volumes about their confidence in the durability of their materials. For heavy family vehicles like the Odyssey, longevity is just as important as initial ride comfort.

KUIPERAUTO 4PCS Front and Rear Struts Shocks Absorbers Compatible for 2004-2010 Toyota Sienna 172363 172364 344480

This KUIPERAUTO set is an excellent choice for Toyota Sienna owners, providing a significant boost in ride comfort and stability. What sets these components apart is their focus on performance under diverse conditions. They are built with materials resistant to oil, water, and corrosion, ensuring stable operation across various temperature environments. More importantly, the advanced design promises an excellent cushioning effect that quickly reduces body bounce, making the Sienna a safer and more comfortable ride whether you’re on the highway or hitting minor off-road bumps.

Key features that stand out:
– Excellent Cushioning Effect: Quickly reduces body bounce, improving stability and comfort
– All-Weather Adaptability: Resistant to corrosion and stable across various temperature extremes
– Multi-Fitment: Compatible with both 8 Passenger FWD and All-Wheel Drive Sienna models

Pros:
– Highly durable materials resist environmental damage
– Improves overall vehicle stability across different driving scenarios
– Comes pre-assembled and requires no modification

Cons:
– The focus is primarily on performance and durability, not necessarily the softest factory feel.

Best for: Toyota Sienna owners living in harsh climates who require heavy-duty components that maintain stability and cushioning in all conditions.

Expert Opinion: The ability of these shocks to adapt to various temperature environments suggests robust internal components and superior fluid management, vital for maximizing shock absorber lifespan, which is one of the key factors when looking for best shocks and struts for cars.

Detroit Axle – RWD Struts Kit for 2015-2019 Ford F-150, 2 Front Struts with Coil Spring Assembly 2 Rear Shock Absorbers 2016 2017 2018 Replacement Suspension Kit

Truck suspension needs to handle far more stress than sedan components, and this Detroit Axle kit is engineered specifically for the demands of the Ford F-150. This comprehensive suspension kit provides two complete front struts and two rear shock absorbers, ensuring the iconic truck maintains its towing capacity and load stability. Crucially, the struts are a complete, quick-install assembly, meaning you avoid the complexity and danger of compressing heavy-duty truck coil springs. Like their minivan counterpart, this set is backed by an impressive 10-YEAR WARRANTY, confirming its rugged durability for truck owners.

Key features that stand out:
– Heavy-Duty Construction: Built to withstand the demands of a full-size pickup truck
– Quick Installation: Front strut assemblies are complete and ready to install
– Robust Warranty: Supported by a 10-Year Warranty for long-term peace of mind

Pros:
– Dramatically improves load handling and rear stability
– Rigorous fatigue and wear testing ensures longevity
– Excellent value for a complete truck suspension refresh

Cons:
– Specifically designed for RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) models only.

Best for: Ford F-150 RWD owners who use their truck for towing or hauling and demand maximum durability and reliable suspension performance.

Expert Opinion: When dealing with heavy trucks, the quality of the coil spring assembly is paramount. Detroit Axle’s testing protocols ensure these units can handle heavy payloads, making them some of the best shocks and struts for cars (or trucks, in this case) needing rugged performance.

Vextone – Complete Front Struts Shocks Assembly – Fit for 2006-2013 Chevy Impala, 2014-2016 Impala Limited – Replace OE#172903 Ready Strut (Set of 2)

The Vextone complete front strut assembly offers a straightforward and dependable solution for improving the ride of the Chevy Impala. Designed using superior tubing and welded steel, these struts emphasize structural integrity and durability. Vextone highlights the improved traveling stability provided by their advanced shock-absorbing technology, making the ride safer and notably more comfortable, especially for passengers. Because these are complete, ready struts, installation is straightforward, restoring the vehicle’s smooth ride quickly and effectively.

Key features that stand out:
– Enhanced Traveling Stability: Advanced shock absorbing technology fully enhances stability
– High Durability Materials: Made of high-quality steel with superior tubing design
– Easy Installation: Complete assembly minimizes the need for special installation tools

Pros:
– Focuses heavily on improving passenger comfort
– Simple, direct replacement for OE part number
– Good structural integrity for long-term use

Cons:
– This set only includes the front struts, requiring separate rear shock purchases.

Best for: Chevy Impala owners looking for an easy, efficient front suspension upgrade focused on ride comfort and stability.

Expert Opinion: The Vextone struts target the daily driver comfort zone. If your primary concern is reducing road vibration and ensuring a smooth journey, particularly with children or elderly passengers, these are a reliable choice.

MOSTPLUS 4PCS Front+Rear Complete Struts Shock Assembly W/Coil Spring Compatible for 2008-17 Mitsubishi Lancer ES

The MOSTPLUS suspension kit for the Mitsubishi Lancer offers a robust upgrade focused on anti-corrosion and high performance. This full four-piece set features components treated with electrophoretic coating to increase resistance to oxidation and corrosion, extending the product lifespan significantly. Designed with seamless sleeves and chrome piston rods, these units promise reduced vibration and zero squeaking noise, maintaining a quiet cabin experience. For Lancer owners looking for a direct, high-quality replacement, this complete assembly offers excellent value and longevity.

Key features that stand out:
– Anti-Corrosion Features: Electrophoretic-coated components resist oxidation and rust
– High Performance Design: Chrome piston rods and seamless sleeves prevent leaking issues
– Quiet Operation: Engineered for low vibration and guaranteed no squeaking noise

Pros:
– Superior rust and corrosion resistance
– Complete front and rear set provides uniform suspension feel
– Direct fit ensures quick, hassle-free installation

Cons:
– Primarily built for the ES model, limiting compatibility with Ralliart or EVO variants.

Best for: Mitsubishi Lancer owners in wet or salty environments who need dependable, corrosion-resistant best shocks and struts for cars that prioritize performance and quiet operation.

Expert Opinion: When considering the overall shock absorber lifespan, corrosion is often the greatest enemy. The electrophoretic coating on the MOSTPLUS system is a significant durability factor that makes this kit particularly appealing for drivers in regions where road salt is common.

Comparison and Buying Insights

Choosing the best shocks and struts for cars often comes down to balancing vehicle type, installation ease, and budget. Here are a few practical insights based on the reviewed products:

Easiest Installation for Sedans: For the simplest DIY install, the quick strut assemblies from AUTOSAVER88 and COMPLETESTRUTS are standouts. Because the coil spring assembly is already completed, you avoid dangerous spring compression work entirely.

Best for Durability and Warranty: If you drive a heavy vehicle (like a truck or minivan) and need protection against premature failure, Detroit Axle’s 10-Year Warranty on their Odyssey and F-150 kits is unmatched in this lineup. Their commitment to impact and wear testing provides crucial peace of mind.

Climate Resilience: For drivers in regions with heavy road salt or constant moisture, the KUIPERAUTO and MOSTPLUS kits offer superior protection. The electrophoretic coating and corrosion-resistant materials on the MOSTPLUS Lancer kit are highly effective at extending the shock absorber lifespan.

Focus on Ride Comfort: While all units restore stability, the Vextone Impala struts specifically advertise enhanced passenger comfort and reduced vibration, making them ideal if your primary goal is a smooth, quiet ride.

Final Verdict: Our Top Picks

While all these quick strut assemblies offer significant improvements over worn OEM components, a few stood out for specific use cases.

Best Overall Value and Ease of Install: The AUTOSAVER88 Front Pair Complete Quick Struts Rear shocks for GM vehicles provides a comprehensive, high-quality package that restores ride comfort for a wide range of common sedans at an excellent price point.

Best for Trucks and Heavy Loads: The Detroit Axle RWD Struts Kit for 2015-2019 Ford F-150 takes the top spot here. Its heavy-duty construction and industry-leading 10-Year Warranty make it the most reliable long-term investment for truck owners.

Best for High-Mileage Commuters: The KUIPERAUTO 4PCS Front and Rear Struts Shocks Absorbers for Toyota Sienna impressed us with its all-weather durability and focus on premium cushioning, ensuring stability and comfort over long drives in varied conditions.

Best Shocks And Struts For Cars FAQ

Q1: What are the main signs that I need new shocks and struts?

A: The most common signs include excessive bouncing after hitting a bump, the vehicle swaying or leaning heavily during turns, “nose diving” when braking, uneven tire wear, fluid leaking from the shocks/struts, and unusual knocking or rattling noises coming from the suspension. If your vehicle handling feels loose or unstable, it’s time for an inspection.

Q2: What is the difference between a shock absorber and a strut?

A: A shock absorber is a separate component designed solely to dampen spring oscillation and control the vehicle’s movement. A strut is a structural component of the suspension system. It includes a shock absorber built into the central unit and supports the vehicle’s weight, often containing the coil spring assembly. Struts are generally more complex and crucial for maintaining wheel alignment.

Q3: How long do the best shocks and struts for cars typically last?

A: While manufacturer recommendations vary, most quality best shocks and struts for cars are designed to last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, this lifespan depends heavily on driving conditions (rough roads, heavy loads, salty environments can decrease life) and the quality of the replacement part. Inspecting them every year after 50k miles is highly recommended.

Q4: Should I replace just the shocks or the struts, or buy a full set?

A: It is generally recommended to replace shocks and struts in pairs (both fronts, or both rears) to maintain balanced vehicle handling and ride comfort. If you are replacing struts, opting for a quick strut assembly (which includes the new strut, coil spring, and mount) is often faster, safer, and ensures all components are new and working together perfectly.

Q5: What is a “quick strut assembly,” and why is it easier to install?

A: A quick strut assembly, or complete strut, is a pre-assembled unit that includes the strut, shock absorber, coil spring, strut mount, and necessary hardware, all ready to install right out of the box. It simplifies installation because mechanics or DIYers do not need specialized (and potentially dangerous) tools like a spring compressor to transfer the old coil spring to the new shock.

Q6: Does upgrading my shocks and struts affect my vehicle handling?

A: Absolutely. Worn components severely degrade vehicle handling, steering response, and stability. Replacing them, especially with quality units like the best shocks and struts for cars listed in this guide, will restore the intended ride comfort and often improve handling beyond the vehicle’s current, worn-out state.

Q7: Are aftermarket shocks and struts better than OEM parts?

A: Aftermarket parts often offer excellent value and sometimes superior performance compared to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). Companies like Detroit Axle and MOSTPLUS often design their units to overcome known weaknesses in the factory parts or include enhanced features (like the superior corrosion resistance mentioned above) without sacrificing the exact fitment required for optimal vehicle handling.