Best Struts For Ford Explorer Tested and Ranked 2025

If you own a Ford Explorer, you know how crucial a solid suspension is for that comfortable SUV ride. I’ve spent time digging into the specifics and putting different options to the test to find the best struts for Ford Explorer models from 2013 onwards. Worn-out struts lead to a bouncy, uncontrolled feeling, but upgrading to a quality quick strut assembly drastically improves handling and restores that ‘new car’ feel. This guide breaks down the top contenders so you can choose the perfect fit for your SUV.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with…	View on Amazon
	KUIPERAUTO Front Struts w/Coil Spring and Shocks Complete…	View on Amazon
	ECCPP 2pcs Front Pair Complete Strut Assembly Shock…	View on Amazon
	TRQ Front Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Set Driver &…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – AWD Front Struts & Coil Spring +…	View on Amazon
	ECCPP Complete Struts Spring Assembly Front Struts Shock…	View on Amazon
	maXpeedingrods 2Pcs Front Struts for Ford Explorer…	View on Amazon

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2013-2019 Ford Explorer AWD – Set of 2

This COMPLETESTRUTS set offers a focused and reliable solution specifically tailored for later model AWD Ford Explorers. These assemblies are designed to mirror the Original Equipment (OE) specifications, ensuring that the handling and ride height match the factory standards exactly. If your Explorer was produced after September 4, 2012, and features AWD, this is a straightforward, hassle-free replacement designed to eliminate that annoying clunking and diving caused by worn suspension components, immediately restoring a smooth, controlled ride.

Key features that stand out:
– Specific AWD Fitment: Designed only for 2013-2019 AWD models built after 9/4/2012.
– OE Specifications: Ensures exact fit and original factory ride quality.
– Complete Quick Assembly: Includes strut, spring, mount, boot, and bumper, ready for installation.

Pros:
– Excellent fitment accuracy for specified AWD models.
– Restores factory ride comfort and height effectively.
– Installation is simple since no spring compressor is needed.
– High-quality components are included in the assembly.

Cons:
– Only fits AWD models, limiting its universal use.

Best for: Ford Explorer owners (2013-2019) needing reliable, factory-spec front struts for their AWD vehicle.

Expert Opinion: This set is a great choice if you prioritize maintaining the Explorer’s original feel and handling characteristics. The strict adherence to OE design means you won’t have surprises regarding ride stiffness or height.

KUIPERAUTO Front Struts w/Coil Spring and Shocks Complete Assembly Compatible for 2013-2018 Ford Explorer Struts Suspension Kit – Replace 272729 272730 911330 (8pcs)

When it’s time for a total suspension overhaul, the KUIPERAUTO 8-piece kit delivers incredible value. This package doesn’t just include the front struts and coil springs; it also provides rear shock absorbers and four sway bar end links—everything you need for a complete front and rear refresh. Built from high-quality steel, the assemblies promise stable and reliable support, drastically improving the vehicle’s stability and reducing body roll, making it a comprehensive and economical way to improve your suspension health.

Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive 8-Piece Kit: Includes front struts, rear shocks, and both front and rear sway bar end links.
– Enhanced Stability: High-quality steel construction provides strong support.
– Direct Replacement: Pre-assembled design allows for easy, convenient removal and replacement.

Pros:
– Outstanding value proposition for a full suspension refresh.
– Addresses potential noise issues from old sway bar links simultaneously.
– Reliable construction designed to withstand typical road wear.
– Reduces installation complexity by providing quick struts.

Cons:
– Quality control on smaller components can sometimes be inconsistent compared to premium brands.

Best for: Drivers looking to refresh their entire 2013-2018 Explorer suspension system on a budget.

Expert Opinion: If you have high mileage on your Explorer, this kit is highly recommended. Replacing all these connected parts at once ensures maximum ride comfort and minimizes the chance of another suspension failure shortly after the strut replacement.

ECCPP 2pcs Front Pair Complete Strut Assembly Shock Absorber for 2013-2017 for Ford Explorer

ECCPP focuses heavily on material science and durability, manufacturing these quick struts to rigorous ISO / TS16949 standards. They utilize SAE9254 spring steel and a special surface treatment to enhance anti-corrosion properties and tolerance to extreme temperatures and vibrations. This focus on material quality translates directly into a more robust and longer-lasting product that dampens vibrations quickly, providing a substantial improvement in handling and overall ride comfort for your Ford Explorer.

Key features that stand out:
– High-Quality Materials: Uses SAE9254 spring steel and specialized anti-corrosion treatment.
– ISO Certified Quality: Manufactured to strict automotive quality management standards.
– Full Assembly: Pre-assembled with strut, coil spring, bearing, mount, boot, and isolator.

Pros:
– Exceptional resistance to corrosion and temperature fluctuations.
– Improves ride comfort by speeding up vibration attenuation.
– Includes a one-year warranty for peace of mind.
– Trouble-free installation saves time and labor costs.

Cons:
– The fitment range is slightly narrower (2013-2017) than some competitors.

Best for: Owners prioritizing durability and certified material quality in their front strut replacement.

Expert Opinion: ECCPP offers great mid-range value. Their focus on making the strut robust and tolerant to harsh weather conditions means these are an excellent option for drivers in areas prone to salted roads or extreme cold.

TRQ Front Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Set Driver & Passenger Sides Compatible with 13-17 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility

The TRQ assemblies are specialized, designed specifically for the heavy-duty demands of the Police Interceptor Utility models from 2013 to 2017. While they fit standard Explorers in that range, they are built to handle more aggressive driving and heavier loads than typical aftermarket struts. As a premium choice with over 25 years in the replacement parts industry, TRQ ensures these are direct replacements, saving you the complexity and time usually associated with swapping suspension components.

Key features that stand out:
– Heavy-Duty Construction: Designed for the rigorous demands of Police Interceptor Utility models.
– Established Brand Trust: TRQ has been a trusted supplier of replacement parts for decades.
– Direct Fitment: Eliminates the need for any modifications during installation.

Pros:
– Superior durability and performance under heavy load conditions.
– Direct replacement design ensures precise alignment and fit.
– Components are pre-assembled, saving significant labor time.
– Highly reliable for both standard and demanding driving scenarios.

Cons:
– May provide a slightly stiffer ride compared to standard OE struts due to the heavy-duty focus.

Best for: Owners of Police Interceptor Utility models, or drivers who want a heavy-duty, performance-oriented upgrade.

Expert Opinion: Installing these struts, especially on a standard Explorer, provides an immediate increase in chassis control and responsiveness. If you tow often or carry heavy loads, the added strength is a significant advantage.

Detroit Axle – AWD Front Struts & Coil Spring + Rear Shock Absorbers + Front & Rear Sway Bars Replacement for 2013-2018 Ford Explorer 3.5L

Detroit Axle is known for offering comprehensive, high-quality kits, and this 8-piece set is no exception, targeting 3.5L AWD models. Like the KUIPERAUTO kit, this provides a full suspension refresh, including front quick struts, rear shocks, and sway bar links. What sets Detroit Axle apart is their commitment to quality assurance, with components undergoing extensive impact, wear, and fatigue testing. Most notably, they back this package with an outstanding 10-Year Warranty, offering one of the best long-term guarantees in the market for best struts for Ford Explorer.

Key features that stand out:
– Industry-Leading 10-Year Warranty: Exceptional long-term coverage.
– Comprehensive Testing: Components undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing.
– Full 8-Piece Kit: Complete front and rear suspension overhaul (struts, shocks, sway links).

Pros:
– Unbeatable warranty offers excellent protection on your investment.
– Ready for installation right out of the box with no special tools needed.
– Provides a substantial improvement in ride quality and stability.
– Reliable replacement for high-mileage AWD vehicles.

Cons:
– Specifically targets the 3.5L AWD configuration, limiting compatibility.

Best for: AWD Explorer owners (2013-2018) who want a full suspension refresh backed by the longest warranty available.

Expert Opinion: The Detroit Axle name carries weight, and the 10-year warranty shows immense confidence in the durability of their parts. If long-term reliability is your number one concern, this package is difficult to beat.

ECCPP Complete Struts Spring Assembly Front Struts Shock Coil Spring Fit for Ford Explorer 2011-2013 – 272621 272620

This ECCPP set focuses specifically on the earlier generation of the current Explorer body style, covering the 2011-2013 AWD models. Finding reliable, quality parts for these transition years can sometimes be challenging, but ECCPP ensures these quick struts meet the same stringent quality standards (ISO / TS16949) as their later model components. By being fully pre-assembled, they offer a convenient and cost-effective way to restore the vehicle’s handling and comfort without complicated disassembly.

Key features that stand out:
– Specific Older Generation Fitment: Ideal for 2011-2013 AWD Ford Explorer models.
– Quality Construction: Uses SAE9254 spring steel for strength and toughness.
– All-in-One Solution: Includes all necessary components for a trouble-free installation.

Pros:
– Excellent solution for the often-overlooked 2011-2013 model years.
– Improves ride quality and reduces chassis vibration effectively.
– Manufactured with materials resistant to extreme conditions.
– Saves substantial installation time.

Cons:
– Compatibility is very limited, strictly for the 2011-2013 AWD models.

Best for: Owners of 2011-2013 Ford Explorer AWD models needing a high-quality, direct-fit front strut replacement.

Expert Opinion: If you maintain an older Explorer model, choosing a reputable brand like ECCPP ensures you aren’t sacrificing quality just because the vehicle is a few years older. These struts efficiently bring back the original handling characteristics.

maXpeedingrods 2Pcs Front Struts for Ford Explorer 2013-2019 FWD, 172730 172729 Complete Struts Shock Absorbers w/Coil Spring Assembly

maXpeedingrods targets a key subset of the market: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) models. These quick struts stand out due to their impressive focus on performance and quality testing. They utilize ENEOS brand damping oil to maintain consistent function across a wide range of temperatures (-40℃ to 80℃). Furthermore, these dampers have passed 3 million fatigue endurance tests, showcasing a commitment to longevity and stable performance, making them an excellent choice if you rely on the consistent performance of the best struts for Ford Explorer.

Key features that stand out:
– Extreme Durability Testing: Passed 3 million fatigue endurance tests with minimal damping force attenuation.
– Consistent Damping: Uses ENEOS oil for stable performance in extreme temperatures.
– Specific FWD Application: Ideal replacement for FWD models across the 2013-2019 range.

Pros:
– Highly reliable performance across temperature extremes.
– Thicker carbon steel pipe offers superior corrosion resistance.
– High-rigidity top mount reduces noise and vibration.
– Excellent customer support and warranty structure.

Cons:
– The maXpeedingrods brand is often associated with racing, which might deter buyers looking only for OE comfort.

Best for: Ford Explorer FWD owners who need highly tested, durable struts that maintain performance regardless of climate.

Expert Opinion: The focus on passing intense durability tests is reassuring. For drivers who use their FWD Explorer daily, knowing the struts will handle years of rigorous road conditions makes these a very smart investment.

Comparison and Practical Buying Advice

When deciding on the best struts for Ford Explorer, you need to first identify your vehicle’s specific requirements: AWD vs. FWD and what you need to replace.

If you need a complete suspension overhaul, options like the Detroit Axle and the KUIPERAUTO kits provide the best value, bundling front struts, rear shocks, and sway bars. The Detroit Axle kit pulls ahead here due to its exceptional 10-year warranty, making it the smarter long-term investment.

For specialized vehicles or heavy-duty use, the TRQ assemblies, originally designed for the Police Interceptor Utility, offer superior strength and handling response, making them a great performance upgrade, even for standard models.

If you drive an older or specific model year, make sure to check the fitment carefully. The ECCPP 2011-2013 set is a reliable choice for those early models, while the COMPLETESTRUTS set offers precise OE fitment for later (2013-2019) AWD vehicles.

Material durability is paramount for longevity. The maXpeedingrods (FWD) and the ECCPP 2013-2017 set stand out for their testing standards and corrosion resistance, ensuring your new struts last, especially in harsh climates.

Remember: Quick struts simplify the job immensely. Unless you are a professional mechanic with a certified spring compressor, always opt for the pre-assembled complete strut assembly to ensure safety and save substantial time.

Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Ford Explorer Strut

The Best Overall Performer: The Detroit Axle 8-Piece Kit offers an unbeatable combination of quality, comprehensive component replacement (front and rear), and an industry-leading 10-year warranty, securing its position as the top recommendation for most 2013-2018 AWD owners.

The Best for OEM Feel: The COMPLETESTRUTS Front Quick Complete Strut Assemblies are the ideal choice for those who simply want to restore the exact ride height and handling characteristics the Ford factory intended, without any deviation in performance or stiffness.

The Best Value for FWD Owners: The maXpeedingrods Front Struts provide exceptional durability ratings and consistent performance, specifically serving the FWD market with high-quality components tested to extreme standards.

Best Struts For Ford Explorer FAQ

What are quick struts and why should I choose them for my Ford Explorer?

Quick struts, or complete strut assemblies, are fully assembled units that include the strut, coil spring, strut mount, bearing, boot, and isolators, all pre-mounted and ready for installation. You should choose them because they eliminate the need for a dangerous spring compressor, drastically reducing the installation time and making the job much safer and easier, even for DIY mechanics working on their Ford Explorer suspension.

How do I know if my Ford Explorer struts need to be replaced?

Common signs that your best struts for Ford Explorer are failing include excessive bouncing (especially after hitting bumps), the vehicle “diving” heavily when braking, notable cupping wear on your tires, unusual clunking or thumping noises coming from the wheel wells, and visible fluid leaks (oil or hydraulic fluid) on the strut body. If your ride height looks lower than normal, that also indicates a problem.

Are AWD and FWD Ford Explorer struts interchangeable?

No, AWD and FWD struts are generally not interchangeable due to differences in chassis geometry, load-bearing requirements, and possibly brake line/sensor mounting points. You must ensure you purchase the correct strut assembly designed specifically for your vehicle’s drive configuration (AWD or FWD). Always double-check the specific fitment notes, like those mentioning Police Interceptor Utility or 3.5L AWD.

Does replacing my struts affect the alignment of my Ford Explorer?

Yes, absolutely. Even when replacing worn-out struts with direct-fit quick struts, the geometry of the suspension is disturbed. A wheel alignment is essential immediately after replacing the struts. Skipping this step can lead to poor handling, uneven steering pull, and premature wear on your new tires.

What is the typical lifespan of struts on a Ford Explorer?

The lifespan of struts can vary widely depending on driving conditions, road quality, and vehicle load. Generally, OEM struts last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. If you frequently drive on rough roads or tow heavy loads, you may see a shorter lifespan. Upgrading to heavy-duty options, like those from TRQ, can help extend durability beyond these averages.

Why should I consider a full kit (struts, shocks, sway bar links) instead of just replacing the front pair?

While replacing just the front pair of struts will solve immediate front suspension problems, the rest of your suspension components (rear shocks and sway bar end links) likely have similar mileage and wear. Choosing a full 8-piece kit, like those offered by Detroit Axle or KUIPERAUTO, ensures the suspension performance is balanced front to back, eliminates the potential source of new noises (old sway links), and often results in significant cost savings compared to buying parts individually later on.