Best Struts For Dodge Ram 1500 4X4

I remember when my old Ram 1500 4×4 started bouncing like crazy—it felt like I was riding a pogo stick instead of a heavy-duty truck. That rough ride instantly told me it was time to upgrade the suspension. We’re diving deep into the options to find the best struts for dodge ram 1500 4×4, focusing specifically on quick-install complete assemblies that make the job easier, ensuring your truck gets that smooth, reliable handling back.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 4WD 2009-2018 Dodge…	View on Amazon
	KUIPERAUTO Pair Front Struts w/Coil Spring Assembly…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – 4WD Suspension Kit for 09-10 Dodge Ram…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – 4WD Struts Shocks for 2006 2007 2008…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – 4WD Front Struts Sway Bars for 2009-2018…	View on Amazon

Detroit Axle – 2 Front Struts for 4WD 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 [w/o Air Suspension] Complete Struts w/Coil Springs 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Replacement Ready Strut Shocks

If you own a newer fourth-generation Ram 1500 and only need to address the front end, this Detroit Axle complete strut assembly is an excellent, straightforward choice. These assemblies arrive ready to bolt in, saving you the hassle and danger of compressing coil springs—a massive benefit for the home mechanic. They are specifically designed for 4WD models that utilize traditional coil springs, providing a noticeable improvement in ride quality and eliminating that spongy feeling often associated with worn components.

Key features that stand out:

• Complete Ready Strut: Comes fully assembled with the strut, spring, and mount.
• Specific Fitment: Tailored for 2009-2018 4×4 models without factory air suspension or the TRX package.
• Durability Tested: Products undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing for reliability.
• DIY Friendly: No special tools are required for installation beyond basic wrenching gear.

Pros:
– Eliminates the need for spring compressors.
– Direct-fit replacement means zero modifications.
– Significant upgrade for worn factory struts.
– Reliable construction backed by testing.

Cons:
– Only covers the front axle, requiring a separate purchase for rear shocks if needed.

Best for:
Ram 1500 owners (2009–2018 4×4, non-air suspension) looking for an easy, cost-effective front suspension refresh.

Expert Opinion: This set is the go-to option for those prioritizing ease of installation. By including the coil spring and mount, Detroit Axle provides a genuinely quick install—you swap out the whole unit, cutting hours off the job compared to swapping individual components.

KUIPERAUTO Pair Front Struts w/Coil Spring Assembly Compatible with 2006-2008 Dodge Ram 1500 4WD 171111 Shock Absorbers

Owners of the earlier third-generation Dodge Ram 1500 4WD (2006–2008) often struggle to find quality, complete assemblies for their specific setup. The KUIPERAUTO pair steps in to fill that gap, offering a meticulously designed OE-replacement solution. These shocks are built with advanced alloy steel and feature an electrophoretic painted surface, ensuring maximum corrosion resistance—vital for trucks used in harsh, salted environments.

Key features that stand out:

• Older Model Compatibility: Designed specifically for 2006-2008 4WD 5-Lug Models.
• High-Quality Materials: Utilizes advanced alloy steel and electrophoretic paint for improved durability.
• Comprehensive Assembly: Includes the strut, coil spring, mount, boot, and bumper kit.
• Quality Tested: Suspension assembly passed extensive high/low temperature testing and air spring blasting tests.

Pros:
– Strong focus on anti-corrosion properties.
– Meets OE design specifications for perfect fitment.
– Reliable damping characteristics for a smooth, comfortable ride.
– Excellent solution for hard-to-fit older models.

Cons:
– While durable, they are focused on OE replacement performance, not heavy towing or lifting.

Best for:
Owners of the 2006–2008 Dodge Ram 1500 4×4 seeking a reliable, high-quality, corrosion-resistant front strut replacement.

Expert Opinion: The testing procedures mentioned by KUIPERAUTO are impressive, especially the focus on temperature extremes and corrosion. For an older truck that’s seen its share of abuse, this set provides confidence that the component won’t prematurely fail due to rust or environmental factors.

Detroit Axle – 4WD Suspension Kit for 09-10 Dodge Ram 1500, 11-18 Ram 1500, Front Struts & Coil Spring Rear Shock Absorbers 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Replacement – 4pc Set

Why replace only the front struts when your rear shocks are likely just as worn? This comprehensive 4-piece kit from Detroit Axle offers the best value for a full suspension overhaul on 2009–2018 Ram 1500 4×4 models (without TRX or air suspension). By swapping both the front struts and the rear shocks simultaneously, you ensure that the entire suspension system is balanced, resulting in the most consistent and comfortable ride possible.

Key features that stand out:

• Complete 4pc Kit: Includes 2 front complete strut assemblies and 2 rear shock absorbers.
• Balanced Performance: Replacing all four corners ensures uniform ride height and damping.
• 10-Year Warranty: Provides excellent long-term peace of mind regarding product quality.
• Broad Compatibility: Fits various trims (Laramie, SLT, Sport) across the generation, provided they use coil springs front and rear.

Pros:
– Comprehensive solution for restoring the entire suspension system.
– Outstanding 10-year warranty coverage.
– Quick installation of the front assemblies.
– Excellent cost-saving over purchasing parts individually.

Cons:
– Requires confirming the truck uses coil springs on the rear axle, not just the front.

Best for:
Ram 1500 owners (2009–2018 4×4) who need a total suspension replacement and prioritize balance and long-term warranty coverage.

Expert Opinion: Whenever possible, I always recommend replacing shocks and struts in pairs or, ideally, as a full set. This 4pc kit addresses that need perfectly. The 10-year warranty is particularly appealing for drivers looking for a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix. This is one of the top contenders for the best struts for dodge ram 1500 4×4 if budget allows for a full upgrade.

Detroit Axle – 4WD Struts Shocks for 2006 2007 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Complete 2 Front Struts with Coil Spring 2 Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement Quick Install Ready Strut Assembly

Just like the 4pc kit for the newer generation, this Detroit Axle set targets the older 2006–2008 Ram 1500 4×4 models (5-Lug Wheel Models Only) with a complete suspension refresh package. If your 3rd-gen Ram is showing its age with excessive sag, body roll, and poor damping, this kit allows you to restore the original factory performance on all four corners immediately. The front struts are complete assemblies, maintaining the easy installation benefit.

Key features that stand out:

• Full 4pc Kit for Classics: Specific fitment for 2006–2008 4WD 5-Lug models.
• Front and Rear Replacement: Addresses both strut assemblies (front) and traditional shock absorbers (rear).
• Quick Install: Front struts arrive complete and ready for immediate mounting.
• Consistency: All components are wear- and impact-tested to ensure uniform quality and performance across the axle.

Pros:
– Ideal for restoring the ride quality of an older, often neglected suspension.
– Factory height replacement ensures compatibility with original components.
– Complete set offers a single purchase solution.
– Durable construction focuses on longevity.

Cons:
– Fitment is very specific and only works on 5-lug 4WD models.

Best for:
Restoring the factory ride height and handling of the 2006–2008 Dodge Ram 1500 4×4.

Expert Opinion: This set is crucial for those still running their 3rd-gen Ram. These trucks are often used hard, and the rubber components on 15-year-old suspension parts are definitely fatigued. This complete 4pc replacement offers the quickest way to get a safe, predictable ride back under the truck.

Detroit Axle – 4WD Front Struts Sway Bars for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 [w/o Air Suspension] 2 Struts with Coil Spring 2 Sway Bars 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Replacement Strut Shock

For the driver who needs better handling and less body roll, this unique Detroit Axle kit doesn’t just include the front struts—it also includes two new front sway bar links. Worn sway bar links are a common source of clunking noises and excessive body lean when turning the Ram 1500. By bundling these components with the complete front strut assemblies, this kit offers a dual-pronged approach to restoring not only ride comfort but also essential cornering stability.

Key features that stand out:

• Enhanced Handling Kit: Includes 2 complete front struts and 2 front sway bar links.
• Fixes Clunks and Roll: Replacing the sway bar links eliminates common suspension noise and improves cornering stiffness.
• Easy Installation: Struts are pre-assembled (ready to mount).
• Comprehensive Coverage: Covers 2009–2018 4×4 models (without air suspension/TRX).

Pros:
– Excellent value by including sway bar links.
– Directly addresses common Ram 1500 suspension noises and instability.
– Simple installation of the complete strut unit.
– Improves vehicle safety and responsiveness during turns.

Cons:
– Does not replace rear shocks, which may still need attention.

Best for:
Ram 1500 owners (2009–2018 4×4) prioritizing sharper handling, reduced body roll, and eliminating front-end suspension noise.

Expert Opinion: If I were troubleshooting a truck with noticeable lean in corners or persistent front-end clunking, this is the kit I’d recommend. The sway bar links are often overlooked, but replacing them alongside the struts ensures that all friction and wear components contributing to front-end instability are addressed at once. This is certainly one of the best struts for dodge ram 1500 4×4 options focusing on stability.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking for the best struts for dodge ram 1500 4×4, the biggest decision isn’t usually the brand, but the extent of the repair and the truck’s model year.

For the newer generation (2009-2018), Detroit Axle offers three strong choices. If you only have front-end issues and are on a budget, the 2 Front Struts only kit is enough. However, for a complete restoration of handling and ride quality, the 4pc Suspension Kit (Front Struts + Rear Shocks) provides balanced performance and an excellent 10-year warranty, making it the superior long-term investment. If your truck feels spongy in corners, choose the kit that includes the Front Struts and Sway Bars for noticeable handling improvements.

For older models (2006-2008), the choice is simpler: KUIPERAUTO offers a robust, corrosion-resistant Front Strut pair, while Detroit Axle offers a comprehensive 4pc Struts Shocks Kit for a total overhaul. If your older Ram is used for light duty, the KUIPERAUTO fronts are great, but heavy users should spring for the full 4pc kit to replace those fatigued rear shocks.

Always verify your truck’s configuration: All options reviewed here are strictly for 4WD/4×4 models and do not fit trucks equipped with the factory Air Suspension system or the TRX package.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your Ram 1500 Suspension Upgrade

Choosing the absolute best struts for your Dodge Ram 1500 4×4 depends entirely on your model year, budget, and performance goals.

The Best All-Around Value and Warranty:
If you drive a 2009-2018 Ram 1500 and want the best balance of price, performance, and peace of mind, the Detroit Axle 4WD Suspension Kit (4pc Set with 10-Year Warranty) is unmatched. Replacing all four corners ensures the truck feels factory-fresh again.

The Best Solution for Handling and Stability:
If you frequently tow or notice excessive body roll in your 2009-2018 Ram, opt for the Detroit Axle Front Struts Sway Bars package. The inclusion of new links will significantly tighten up your front end.

The Best Option for Older 3rd Gen Reliability (2006-2008):
For owners of the classic Ram 1500 4×4, the Detroit Axle 4WD Struts Shocks for 2006 2007 2008 (4pc set) is the recommended path for a complete and reliable suspension reboot.

Best Struts For Dodge Ram 1500 4X4 FAQ

Q: How do I know if I need new struts on my Dodge Ram 1500 4×4?

A: Common signs of worn struts or shocks include excessive nose-diving when braking, the vehicle bouncing several times after hitting a bump (the “pogo stick” effect), noticeable fluid leaks on the strut body, or unusual clunking noises (often indicating worn strut mounts or sway bar links). A rough ride quality or a visible drop in ride height are also key indicators.

Q: Are complete strut assemblies better than just replacing the shock absorber cartridge?

A: Yes, complete strut assemblies (like the quick-install options reviewed here) are generally better for the average consumer. They include the new strut, coil spring, strut mount, bearing, and boot, all pre-assembled. This saves significant labor time, eliminates the hazardous task of compressing the old coil spring, and ensures all wearable components, including the mount, are new.

Q: Will replacing my struts affect my truck’s ride height?

A: If you are using direct OE-replacement complete struts, your ride height should be restored to the original factory specification. Worn struts or sagging coil springs can sometimes cause the truck to sit lower than intended, so installing a new assembly will likely return the height to normal. None of the products reviewed here are lifting struts.

Q: What is the difference between a strut and a shock absorber on the Ram 1500?

A: In the Ram 1500, the front suspension uses struts (which are structural components that house the shock absorber and support the coil spring and the weight of the truck). The rear suspension uses separate shock absorbers which primarily dampen movement but do not bear the weight of the vehicle (as the rear coil springs do this job).

Q: Do I need to replace the rear shocks if I only replace the front struts?

A: While not strictly mandatory, it is highly recommended. Suspension components wear at similar rates. If you only install the best struts for dodge ram 1500 4×4 on the front, the damping characteristics between the front and rear axles will be mismatched, leading to uneven handling and potentially reduced braking stability. A 4-piece suspension kit offers the most balanced solution.

Q: What is the “Air Suspension” exclusion mentioned in the product descriptions?

A: Many Ram 1500 models came equipped with an optional factory air suspension system. These systems use specialized air bags (or air springs) instead of traditional coil springs and shocks. The conventional struts reviewed here will not fit trucks with the factory air ride system. Always confirm your specific suspension type before purchasing.