If you are in search of the best shocks for Jeep JK, you are here at the right place. In this post, we have provided a complete buying guide, most Frequently Asked Questions, and top product reviews.
Shock absorbers for Jeep Wrangler (JK) have a direct impact on the car’s handling, comfort, and safety. Being able to reliably transfer power and torque to bad roads at any time is the task of a good shock absorber.
Table of Contents
Best Shocks For Jeep JK
We have a detailed description of the best Jeep Jk replacement shocks to help you make your purchase decision.
1. Rough Country 4-inch Jeep JK Shocks Suspensions
Give your Jeep JK a complete transformation with this Rough Country’s 4-inch Suspension Lift. Rough Country 4” Lift Kit is extraordinarily complete and compatible with the 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler series. This kit makes the Jeep very capable and completely aligned. No need for any other accessory of the suspension, for its operation.
This kit offers easy installation at home and maintains factory ride quality. The X Flex Joints tie rods allow for more significant cross-over, and a free movement of the front axle, making the terrain more readable, making it much more capable. These Jeep JK shocks offer coil correction plates, and coil lifted springs that provide excellent vibration dampening and lift height on any type of terrain.
This lift kit is included everything that you need to give your car improved off-road feat and aggressive looks. It allows the use of 265/75 tires, or more significant if the wheelhouse is slightly cut.
Features
- 10-stage variable valving.
- The size of the Piston is 35mm.
- High-pressure nitrogen charged.
- Designed with Rubber Bushings for better absorption.
- 36kN Tensile Strength.
- Chromed hardened Piston Rod with 18mm.
Product information
- Brand Rough Country
- Item Weight 31.4 pounds
- Product Dimensions 14 x 5.8 x 2.5 inches
Overall Review:
Pros
- Quality of product.
- Simple installation process.
- Kit fits perfectly.
- Great performance on off-road.
- Increased ground clearance.
Cons
- Sometimes it jerks due to terrible role centre design.
- Control arm drop brackets are not included.
2. Fox Perf. Series Jeep Shocks for Wrangler
Ride your car with confidence using Fox Perf. Series IFP Shocks. It is designed with the latest in shock technology that quickly transforms your SUV or Truck. It uses race-proven damping control and offers a predictable off-road handling and a comfortable on-road ride even in the toughest terrains. Its internal IFP mono-tube reservoir design separates shocks oil from the high-pressure nitrogen.
Each Fox Shocks features a 2.0-inch metal impacted body made out of aluminium. Shocks are gas-rechargeable with nitrogen and rebuildable. It is designed with clear-anodized for a super durable finish. Its robust construction is enabling it to resist rust over the years. Besides, its components, are made out of black-anodized ensuring a long service life that surely a jeep enthusiast will appreciate. It is one of the best Jeep JK replacement shocks.
High-quality construction and engineering afford this shocks top-class functionality which genuinely stands out. Fox Perf. Series IFP Shocks are very easy to install. It comes with 0-1 inch lift kits that offer a direct replacement for installation at home easily and without any trouble.
Features
- Lifted front shock absorber.
- Designed with 6061-T6 Aluminum Body.
- Fits models from 2007 to 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK.
- Designed especially for Wrangler with a 1.5 inch to 3.5-inch lift.
- Non-adjustable and Pre-set Damping design.
- Clear-anodized durable finish.
Product information
- Brand Fox
- Item Weight 25 pounds
- Product Dimensions 8 x 28 x 8 inches
- Item model number Performance Series
Overall Review:
Pros
- It offers a smoother ride.
- Reliable off-road control.
- Easy to install.
- Robust construction.
Cons
- We have not found any negative comments about this product so far.
3. Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Absorbers
Bilstein 5100 Series is one of the best shocks for Jeep JK. The Bilstein shock absorbers are a benchmark in terms of suspension technology, qualified as prestigious and of quality, intended for racing or high-end vehicles with customized designs or reserved for a specific use. Bilstein 5100 Series is designed as a direct fit solution for SUVs and Trucks. It offers a significant improvement in comfort, handling, and ride quality.
This Series is strong enough, and its fundamental role is to maintain the safety of the driver and passengers. It ensures vehicle stability by keeping the tires on the pavement in contact and not suffering minimal wear. The function of the Bilstein shock absorbers for cars is to control the movements, impacts, and blows, of suspension, absorbing the energy.
It is about reducing the sudden oscillations suffered by a vehicle on the road, keeping the contact of the tires with the pavement to suffer minimal wear. Bilstein is the pioneer manufacturer in technique and production, and ollaborates with the best automotive brands in the world market.
Features
- Designed with a monotube that offers consistent fade-free performance.
- These Jeep JK shocks utilize a digressive, velocity-sensitive, and unique piston that reacts to changing road conditions.
- Zinc plated finish.
- Smooth Non-Coilover Body Design.
- 46 mm of Body Diameter.
Product information
- Brand Bilstein
- Model Wrangler JK Unlimited, Wrangler JK
- Item Weight 4.6 pounds
- Package Dimensions 26.7 x 3.5 x 3.4 inches
Overall Review:
Pros
- Soft and smooth ride.
- Robust quality.
- Easy installation.
- Improves handling.
Cons
- There are no scams reported.
4. Jeep Gas Shocks Sets by Rancho
Now improve your vehicle’s performance and handling with Rancho RS5000X Shock. This is one of the latest innovations that Rancho has come up with for giving better compression in an advanced manner. It has a fantastic valve system which rebounds well. This system leads to better handling of the vehicle both on smooth and rough roadways.
These shocks are gas shocks and have an excellent quantity of up to 150 PSI of pressurized gas. This twin-tube has shocks has many benefits; one of the significant advantages is the control over the air in oil mixing, so there is no foam formation and fading of the shock. Installing RS5000X shocks is a wise decision for your vehicle.
It helps to improve handling. The pressurization of gas in these shocks will give a good grip and spring rate. Its body is around 2-1/4 inch diameter, which makes the fluid capacity run at a more refreshing pace and improves vehicle control. When you are on a rough roadway with the washboard, the movement of the piston will slide along with the motion of travel.
Features
- Comes with a set of 4 – Fits 4WD Vehicles at factory height or 0 to 2 inch Front lift and 0 to 2 inch rear lift.
- Shock boots are also included with these shocks.
- Designed with nitrogen-gas charged.
- These shocks are suitable for towing, off-road use, and heavier loads.
Product information
- Brand Rancho
- Model RS5000X Gas
- Item Weight 25 pounds
- Product Dimensions 10 x 12 x 5 inches
Overall Review:
Pros
- Fluid withstands internal temperatures.
- It decreases the harsh impacts of rough driving.
Cons
- The bushing and nuts need self-installation.
- Comparatively stiffer.
5. Bilstein 4600 Series Jeep Shock Absorbers
The all-new Bilstein 4600 series are those shock absorbers that are specially designed for the stock height trucks and vehicles. It will make these vehicles achieve great performance improvement. With this, it always gives a comfortable riding experience no matter how the road condition is, there will be the minimum impact of force if at all riding over potholes or uneven surfaces.
4600 Bilstein series shocks are the best to go with for your truck, SUV and Jeep. It is a reliable product by Bilstein where you can know the technology and quality are genuine with a straightforward approach. It has four shock absorbers. For the front and rear both sides. Also, it gets very well fitted in Jeep Wrangler and some of its models as they are of stock height.
The gas with mono-tube pressure technology offers reasonable control and stiffness. It is also useful in the precise handling of the vehicle. Even the valving system has been operating very well since it has been wide enough to function correctly.
Features
- Designed with Monotube Gas Pressure Technology.
- Digressive Working Piston Assembly.
- Blue Shocks boot included.
- Fits from 2007 to 2014 Jeep Models.
- Direct Bolt-on and easy to install.
Product information
- Brand Bilstein
- Item Weight 30 pounds
- Product Dimensions 10 x 10 x 30 inches
Overall Review:
Pros
- Better performance and driving experience.
- Easy installation process.
- It is directly on-bolted.
Cons
- It is stiffer in comparison.
- Fitting issues of the bushing.
6. Fox 2.0 Performance Reservoir Shock
When it comes to performance suspensions, Fox Racing team has a resume that is more than qualified. When your JK goes fast off-road – Fox makes a shot for it. These 2.0 Performance Series shocks are a good balance between cost and quality. They will provide exceptional performance for off-road activities. They also offer a great on-street ride.
The advantage of the 2.0 performance series is its inclusion of an external reservoir. This external reservoir allows for increased oil and nitrogen capacity inside the shock. This reservoir also aids in reducing cavitation and heat when the shock is under extreme use. And by doing so, this eliminates shock fade when you’re letting the skinny pedal have it off-road. Fox also many factors the shaft of 5/8 inch hard chrome-plated heat-treated alloy steel. It is designed to take quite a bit of abuse to get this to bend a break.
The mixture of all these items comes in a single product that has a reasonable cost. Don’t expect these at the most budget-friendly shops. It`s like an iPhone in the world of smartphones – it is more than just a brand. The brand stands for the quality and features that set it apart. That`s the reason why we think it`s a premium product.
Features:
- 2.0″ Metal impacted 6061-T6 aluminium will resist rust over time
- Application-specific valving to maximize performance
- Quiet nitrile rubber allows for increased suspension articulation
- Direct replacement for stock and aftermarket lifts kits
Product Information
- Brand Fox Shox
- Model 2.0 Performance Series w/Reservoir
- Item Weight 25 pounds
- Product Dimensions 15 x 35 x 10 inches
Overall Review:
Pros
- Amazing control
- Stiffness
- External reservoir
Cons
- The price is pretty steep
7. Skyjacker H7000 Shock Absorber
Skyjacker hydro 7000 shocks ease hydraulic action to control the way terrain interacts with the springs. A smoother ride on various road surfaces is achieved with this innovation. Additional features of this product include a twin-tube construction, bonded iron piston, chromed piston rod with micropores, red polyurethane bushings, and red shock boot. The product is backed with a good warranty.
The changes in terrain are handled with ease with multistage velocity-sensitive valving. This allows stable, controlled level resistance to respond instantly to changes in terrain. In plain language this means a better ride, you see a marked improvement in the handling of your Jeep. These shocks feature DOM tubing and a bonded iron piston that reduces internal wear and increases the durability of shocks.
They are great Jeep JK shocks for all types of drivers. They are very well made for the price. They are inexpensive and last plenty long enough to make them well worth the money spent.
Features:
- Hydro shocks
- Twin-tube
- Lifetime warranty
Product information
- Brand Skyjacker
- Model H7000 Hydro
- Item Weight 25 pounds
- Product Dimensions 28 x 8 x 8 inches
Overall Review:
Pros
- Easy to install
- Price
- Smooth ride
Cons
- Some of them leaking over time
- Doubtful bushings
- Paint finish
Some buyers complain that after 5-10 thousand miles they start to leak and their JK model Jeeps starts jumping on the bumps.
Frequently Asked Questions:
So, here are some of the frequently asked questions about what are the essential functions of the shock absorbers how are the shocks absorber worn how to know what shock absorbers you must choose for car etc?
Q: What Are The Essential Functions Of The Shock Absorbers?
A: Its function is directly related to stability control and oscillation reduction, and its malfunction can generate faults due to fatigue in other mobile components of the car. In addition to supporting the weight of the vehicle and absorbing the vibrations that cause the unevenness of the terrain, the shock absorbers can also help to direct the car through a unique structure. That is, they help in the curves when we turn to the right or the left.
Q: How Are The Shock Absorbers Worn?
A: In general, the shock absorbers wear out due to their use. Interestingly, the vehicles driven by the city have more considerable wear on them due to the type of asphalt, very high pedestrian crossings, speed-reducing bands, sewer covers, etc. But external factors such as the usual load of the vehicle, the kilometres travelled, or wear due to weather factors such as humidity, cold or heat can also influence its wear.
Q: How To Know What Shock Absorbers You Must Choose For Your Car?
A: Each shock absorber is designed for different needs. Some shock absorbers are to support large loads, and others improve comfort, others for sports driving or to minimize the effects of pavement in the car, etc. So the most important thing when making this decision is to know what is the use you give to the vehicle.
Q: What Happens When They Wear Out?
A: When the shock absorbers are worn, the vibration in the vehicle increases, loosening and damaging other components because the impacts of the ground are no longer absorbed correctly. In the long run, this affects the comfort and ergonomics of the car and causing passengers to feel each of the potholes through which the vehicle passes.
Q: How Can We Tell If Your Car Has Worn-Out Shock Absorbers?
A: Unfortunately, we cannot feel when our shock absorbers begin to suffer significant wear and tear, as it is a gradual process that makes it difficult to perceive. However, if we begin to notice that our car takes more time to brake and that the braking distance is reduced, it could indicate that our shock absorbers require a revision. Similarly, if you notice any oil leak or small drops that fall near your tires, it is best to check them to confirm they are in good condition.
Q: What Is A Refurbished Shock Absorber?
A: Reconditioning a damper means conditioning it back to work once a fault or defect has compromised its functions. It is no easy task to cover the gaps of such a system as this involves identifying different types of errors with varying kinds of symptoms in the car suspension.
It is highly recommended to buy the best shocks for Jeep JK to avoid future problems.
Q: When Do You Need To Change Your Shocks?
A: There are basically two different scenarios that you’re going to run into as a Jeep owner.
One – is if you lift your vehicle you’re increasing the distance between the axle and the mounting point on the frame of the shock, so you have to buy longer travel shocks.
The second – is if your shocks have worn out and they need to be replaced.
There are a few ways to tell if your shocks are worn out. The first way is when the driver notices that the car is constantly bouncing up and down. The car doesn’t feel solid. This is an important sign that your shocks have worn out and need to be replaced.
The way to test your shocks in this situation is to go to the corner of the vehicle and push up and down on it f your vehicle doesn’t stop bouncing immediately, you might want to check your shocks.
There are also seals in the shocks that once they wear out, they wiak fluid. You also have bushings on both ends of the shock, on the top and bottom mounting points, if you hear any clunking or weird noises or squeaking or anything like that, definitely check those out. If those bushings are worn out time, then it is also time to replace the shocks as well.
Q: How Often Should You Change Shocks On A Jeep Wrangler?
Q: Should I Replace All 4 Shocks At The Same Time?
Q: How Long Do Rancho Shocks Last?
Q: Are Rancho Rs9000xl Good?
Q: What Is The Difference Between Rancho 5000 And 9000 Shocks?
Top 7 Best Shocks For Jeep JK
Below is the exhaustive list of the Jeep JK shocks.
- Rough Country 4-inch Jeep Jk Shocks Suspensions
- Fox Perf. Series Jeep Shocks For Wrangler
- Bilstein 5100 Series Jeep JK shocks Shock Absorbers
- Jeep Gas Shocks Sets By Rancho
- Bilstein 4600 Series Jeep JK Shock Absorbers
- Fox 2.0 Performance Reservoir Jeep JK Shocks
- Skyjacker H7000 Jeep JK Shock Absorber
Conclusion
Shock absorbers are fundamental parts of the car, and their operation must be understood so that the driver is aware of the maintenance needs of his vehicle. If you are considering replacing them or not, it is vital that you take into account both the importance of the shock and its benefits and disadvantages that can bring you not change them on time.
Remember to buy original shocks of the brand of your car, since they have gone through various quality processes and have been specifically designed to work on your model by the same specialists who created your vehicle, which in addition to prolonging your life protects you by guaranteeing you an excellent performance.
According to us best shocks for Jeep JK overall is the Fox Perf. Series Jeep Shocks for Wrangler, the Premium choice is Fox 2.0 Performance Reservoir Shock and the budget choice is Skyjacker H7000 Shock Absorber. There are honourable mentions one is Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Absorbers and another one is Jeep Gas Shocks Sets by Rancho.
