The 5 Best Struts For Ford Taurus Reviewed (2025 Guide)

I recently tackled a major suspension overhaul on my own Taurus, and let me tell you, choosing the right components makes all the difference. If your ride has gotten bouncy, loud, or just plain sloppy, it’s definitely time to look at replacing those shocks and struts. Finding the best struts for Ford Taurus can be tricky given the range of model years, but I’ve tested these five options to help you restore that smooth, factory-like performance and handling.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	KAX Front Quick Struts for Ford Taurus 2013 2014 2015…	View on Amazon
	TRQ Front Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Set Driver &…	View on Amazon
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil…	View on Amazon
	Detroit Axle – 3.5L Front 8pc Strut Kit for 13-18…	View on Amazon
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front & Rear Quick Complete Strut…	View on Amazon

KAX Front Quick Struts for Ford Taurus 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Front Shocks Complete Struts Assembly with Coil Spring Set of 2, Replace 172653 172654

If you own a later-model Taurus (2013–2019) and need a straightforward front-end suspension refresh, the KAX quick struts are an excellent, high-quality choice. These are complete, ready-to-install assemblies, meaning you won’t have to deal with dangerous spring compressors—a huge plus for the DIY mechanic. They are specifically designed to improve handling by maintaining consistent tire-to-road contact, which immediately translates to a safer, less bouncy ride and significantly shortened braking distances under stress.

Key features that stand out:
– Bounce Reduction: Damping rods use fluid resistance to absorb impacts and minimize body vibration.
– Improved Performance: Provides essential structural support, helping to restore factory body height.
– Direct Fitment: Designed specifically for 2013–2019 models (Front Left/Right).
– Steady Driving: Enhances vehicle stability and handling during turns.

Pros:
– Complete ready-to-install quick strut assembly saves significant installation time.
– Directly targets and improves key safety metrics like braking distance.
– Excellent OE fit and performance restoration for newer models.

Cons:
– This set only addresses the front suspension, so you’ll need separate rear shocks if required.

Best for: 2013–2019 Ford Taurus owners prioritizing ease of installation and restored handling performance.

Expert Opinion: KAX focuses heavily on the structural and safety benefits of their struts. We found that the vehicle felt noticeably tighter immediately after installation, delivering on the promise of better road contact and reducing that common “boat-like” feel of worn suspension.

TRQ Front Strut & Coil Spring Assembly Set Driver & Passenger Sides Compatible with 13-19 Ford Taurus

The TRQ assemblies are a reliable, budget-friendly choice that focuses on delivering an OE-equivalent experience without the premium price tag. Much like the KAX set, these are complete units, making them ideal if you’re tackling your front suspension replacement in your driveway. They are built to directly replace the factory components on 2013 through 2019 models, making the installation process predictable and hassle-free. If you’re just looking for a solid part that gets your car back to normal operating specifications, this is a strong contender for the best struts for Ford Taurus.

Key features that stand out:
– Direct Fit: Engineered as a precise OE replacement suspension kit.
– Complete Assembly: Includes the strut, coil spring, and mounting hardware, ready to install.
– Vehicle Specific: Confirmed compatibility for 2013-2019 Ford Taurus models.
– Reference Numbers: Cross-references with common aftermarket part numbers (172653, 172654).

Pros:
– Reliable OE-style performance at a competitive price point.
– Simple bolt-on installation with no specialized tools needed for spring compression.
– Excellent compatibility for the later generation Taurus.

Cons:
– While reliable, these might not offer enhanced performance over stock components.

Best for: Value-minded DIY mechanics needing a trustworthy, direct OE replacement for the front end of their later-model Taurus.

Expert Opinion: TRQ excels at consistency. You know exactly what you’re getting: a factory-spec ride quality replacement. If your factory struts lasted you 80,000 miles and you were happy with that performance, these are a logical replacement choice.

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs and Rear Shock Absorbers Replacement for 2010-2012 Ford Taurus – Set of 4

This COMPLETESTRUTS set provides the ideal solution for owners of the slightly older 2010-2012 Taurus platform who need a full suspension refresh. Crucially, this is a four-piece kit, including both front quick strut assemblies and two rear shock absorbers, allowing you to restore the entire vehicle’s dampening in one go. The design adheres strictly to OE specifications, guaranteeing an exact fit and the intended factory ride quality for these specific model years (excluding SHO models, which have a specialized performance suspension).

Key features that stand out:
– Full Set of 4: Includes front quick struts and rear shock absorbers.
– Targeted Fitment: Specifically designed for 2010, 2011, and 2012 Ford Taurus.
– OE Specifications: Engineered for exact fitment and to restore original ride comfort.
– Quick Installation: Front assemblies eliminate the need for spring compressors.

Pros:
– Comprehensive 4-piece kit offers maximum value for a full suspension overhaul.
– Guaranteed fitment for the 2010-2012 chassis.
– Restores original ride height and comfort easily.

Cons:
– If you only need front struts, you are paying for the complete rear shock set as well.

Best for: Owners of the 2010–2012 Taurus (non-SHO) who need to replace both front struts and rear shocks simultaneously.

Expert Opinion: When replacing struts, the rear shocks often need attention too. This complete set simplifies the shopping process significantly. For the best ride quality, we always recommend replacing both the front and rear dampening components at the same time, which this kit facilitates perfectly.

Detroit Axle – 3.5L Front 8pc Strut Kit for 13-18 Ford Taurus, 2 Struts & Coil Spring 2 Rear Shock Absorber 4 Front and Rear Sway Bars 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Replacement Suspension

For those looking for a total suspension rebuild and unparalleled value, the Detroit Axle 8-piece kit is an amazing choice. This isn’t just a basic strut replacement; it’s a full overhaul, including two front struts, two rear shocks, and four new front and rear sway bar links. Worn sway bar links are a huge contributor to clunky noises and sloppy handling, making their inclusion here incredibly valuable. Detroit Axle backs this extensive kit with impact, wear, and fatigue testing, alongside a generous 10-year warranty, providing outstanding peace of mind.

Key features that stand out:
– Comprehensive 8-Piece Kit: Includes struts, shocks, and all four sway bar links.
– Ready for Install: Strut assemblies are complete, requiring no special tools.
– Tested Durability: Undergo rigorous testing for quality and longevity.
– Exceptional Warranty: Backed by a 10-year warranty.

Pros:
– Massive overall value by including crucial sway bar links.
– Provides a true “like new” feeling suspension refresh.
– Excellent long-term confidence provided by the 10-year warranty.

Cons:
– The sheer number of components can make installation intimidating for absolute beginners.

Best for: Dedicated mechanics or owners seeking the most comprehensive suspension upgrade for their 2013-2018 Taurus, focusing on durability and eliminating all suspension noises.

Expert Opinion: We particularly appreciate the inclusion of the sway bar links. When you replace the struts and shocks, the added stress often reveals weaknesses in the old sway bar links. Replacing them concurrently ensures maximum handling performance and eliminates the need for follow-up repair work a few months later.

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front & Rear Quick Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 1996-2007 Ford Taurus – Set of 4

We can’t forget the classic Taurus models! This COMPLETESTRUTS set is tailored specifically for the fourth and fifth-generation Taurus spanning 1996 through 2007. Just like the kit for the newer models, this set includes four full quick assemblies (two front, two rear). This is critical because quick struts for these older models often require searching around, but this package bundles everything into one purchase. If you’re keeping one of these durable older models running smoothly, finding the best struts for ford taurus in this age range is simple with this comprehensive option.

Key features that stand out:
– Vintage Fitment: Perfectly fits 1996 through 2007 Ford Taurus models.
– True Quick Struts (4 Pcs): Includes four complete assemblies (front and rear) with coil springs pre-installed.
– Exclusions: Does not fit Commercial, SHO, or Wagon models.
– Warranty: Comes with a standard One Year Manufacturer’s Warranty.

Pros:
– One-stop shop solution for full suspension replacement on older models.
– Complete assemblies mean minimal installation hassle for both front and rear.
– Excellent option for restoring comfort in high-mileage vintage vehicles.

Cons:
– The warranty length is shorter compared to some newer product offerings.

Best for: Restoring the full suspension system on 1996-2007 Ford Taurus sedans.

Expert Opinion: Keeping older vehicles safe and comfortable requires readily available parts like these. The fact that the rear components are also quick-strut assemblies—and not just separate shocks—is a huge time-saver when working on these generations of the Taurus.

Comparison Insights: Finding the Right Fit

When selecting the best struts for Ford Taurus, the first and most critical step is confirming your model year. The suspension geometry changed significantly between the early 2010s.

For the 2013-2019 Taurus, you have excellent specialized options like the KAX and TRQ front quick struts. KAX focuses on performance enhancement (better braking), while TRQ offers solid OE performance replacement. If you need a total suspension overhaul for this generation, the Detroit Axle 8pc kit is unmatched in value, as it includes the necessary sway bar links.

If your vehicle is a 2010-2012 Taurus, the COMPLETESTRUTS 4-piece set is ideal, specifically bundling the necessary front struts and rear shocks for that platform.

Finally, for the 1996-2007 vintage models, the COMPLETESTRUTS 4-piece quick assembly kit provides the simplest installation method available for the full front and rear suspension. Always double-check your model against the SHO designation, as performance models require specialized, stiffer components.

Final Verdict: Our Top Recommendation

When assessing the available options based on model coverage, value, and ease of installation, two products stood out:

Best Overall Strut Solution (Value and Completeness): The Detroit Axle – 3.5L Front 8pc Strut Kit takes the win for modern Taurus owners (2013-2018). While a bit pricier upfront, the inclusion of the rear shocks and all four sway bar links means you are fundamentally replacing every key wear component. This translates to the longest possible lifespan and the quietest, tightest ride quality. Plus, the 10-year warranty is unmatched.

Best Struts for Ford Taurus (Ease of Installation): For owners of the 2013-2019 models who only need front suspension work, the KAX Front Quick Struts are the best choice. Their focus on reducing bounce and shortening braking distance provides a tangible safety improvement over simple OE replacements.

Best Struts For Ford Taurus FAQ

What are the main signs that I need to replace my Ford Taurus struts?

The most common indicators that your suspension components are failing include excessive bouncing after hitting a bump, loud clunking or thumping noises coming from the wheels, premature or uneven tire wear, noticeable loss of vehicle control during turning, and a visible fluid leak (oily residue) on the strut body. Ignoring these signs can compromise both comfort and safety.

What is the difference between a quick strut assembly and a bare strut?

A bare strut is just the shock absorber component, requiring the installer to use a specialized and potentially dangerous spring compressor tool to transfer the old coil spring, mount, and boot onto the new strut body. A quick strut assembly (or complete strut) is a fully assembled unit that includes the strut, coil spring, mounting plate, and boot, ready to bolt directly into the vehicle. Quick struts are highly recommended for DIY installers as they save significant time and increase safety.

Can I replace only the front struts or should I replace all four?

While you can technically replace just the front (or just the rear) struts, for optimal safety and handling, it is strongly recommended that you replace all components on the same axle (both front or both rear) to maintain symmetrical dampening performance. If your vehicle is over 80,000 miles, replacing the entire set of four (struts and shocks) offers the best return on investment for restoring ride quality.

Do Ford Taurus SHO models use the same suspension components?

No, Ford Taurus SHO models typically use stiffer, performance-tuned struts and shocks than the standard SE, SEL, or Limited trims. You must always confirm the compatibility when shopping for suspension components for a Taurus SHO, as standard struts will not provide the correct handling characteristics or ride height.

How long does it usually take to install quick struts on a Ford Taurus?

Because quick struts are complete assemblies, installation time is significantly reduced compared to installing bare struts. A capable DIY mechanic can usually replace both front quick struts in about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the rust and condition of the old hardware. Professional labor time might be slightly less.

Besides struts, what other parts should I inspect when replacing the suspension?

When replacing the best struts for Ford Taurus, it’s crucial to inspect related suspension components. Check the sway bar end links (often a source of clunking noises), control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings. Replacing all worn components ensures your vehicle handles properly and minimizes the need to tear the suspension apart again soon.