Best Replacement Shocks For Toyota Tacoma & Other Models

Benefits of Replacing Worn Toyota Tacoma Shocks

Shock absorbers keep the vehicle from bouncing excessively, while struts are entirely different. With the best shocks for a Toyota pickup, you achieve better handling than without. If your existing shocks have started wearing out, you want to replace them before you start to have trouble controlling your Toyota truck.

Choosing Shocks for your Toyota Tacoma

Fitment/Compatibility

If you want shocks for 1998 Toyota Tacoma, you can't look at the Camry-compatible equipment. Start by looking at your option by your vehicle year, make, and model. Then, evaluate whether you need components that fit your lift kit or if your vehicle is operating at the stock height. If you have previously lifted or leveled your Toyota, you will likely require longer shocks to accommodate the modifications.

Driving Condition/Style

You would use a particular shock for highway driving and a different style for off-road travel. Evaluate how you use your Toyota vehicle to determine what shock might work best for you. If you do a multitude of activities, you should opt for the most durable shock design to ensure you have the performance needed.

Shock Type

Among the shock types, you can choose from, consider the gas shocks for a factory replacement. You could also go with coil-over shocks, heavy-duty shocks, and automatic level control shocks. Beyond that, you can also find air shocks for Toyota Tacoma or overload shocks instead. Decide which type will fit your riding style the best.

Shock Style, Size, Shape

Shock Diameter

Durability & Material

You don’t want to invest in air shocks for Toyota Tundra that don’t live up to your expectations in terms of quality. Instead, you want the shocks to last, so you must examine the exterior finish. If you choose aluminum shocks, you will get a lighter weight and sometimes more adjustability. In addition, look at the piston rod construction and outer shell thickness to ensure that the shocks will handle the stress.

Ease of Installation

If you plan on having the best shocks and struts for Toyota Tundra professionally installed, then this won’t be a concern of yours. However, if you like to do your own work, you don’t want to spend all day replacing the shocks. Look through the customer reviews to determine how simple the swap will be.

Value For Money

Everyone wants to own the best shock absorber for Toyota Camry at a bargain price, but sometimes saving money isn’t what’s most important. Instead, consider buying shocks that offer a nice mixture of value and durability. After all, your road safety depends on you having a quality set of shocks to ride on.

1. Bilstein 24186728

When it comes to choosing a leader in the shock industry, you can’t go wrong with anything made by Bilstein. This company is in NASCAR and found on today’s top luxury models, from Jaguar to Porsche. This Bilstein B8 shock is a direct fit for the 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma. The monotube shocks will cost you a little more, but the fade-free performance gives you the ride quality you are hoping for.

In addition, this design features a velocity-sensitive digressive piston that changes with the road condition. You've likely never experienced comfort, and handling like this model brings. You might even forget for a minute that you are riding in a pickup. The shocks have a 46mm digressive piston for maximum durability. These shocks are ideal for off-road use or heavy hauling, while still performing well during regular highway commuting.

You know that all Bilstein shocks are built to last, but this model also contains a zinc-plated steel body and Triple-C technology coating. If that’s not enough, Bilstein provides a limited lifetime warranty to prove that there’s nothing to worry about. Yes, you are going to make a little bit of an investment, but the improved ride quality makes it all worth it.

2. Detroit Axle 171371

If you want a complete strut and shock assembly for your 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma, Detroit Axle has you covered for a bargain price. This OEM replacement includes front quick struts and two rear shocks. You won’t need any special tools or expertise to replace your stock equipment with this suspension kit. Many of the customers were pleased with the simple install.

At first glance, you might feel uneasy about spending so little on a complete kit, but Detroit Axle has built a solid reputation. These shocks and struts aren't anything fancy but will provide the stock replacement you need if your existing equipment is worn out. The company does take the durability a step further by ensuring there is an O-ring that provides pressure to the inner tube and create a tighter seal. This ensures that the valve is less susceptible to wearing out, fatigue, and dirt.

If money is your main concern, these might be the best shocks and struts for your Tacoma. Plus, the company still provides a ten-year warranty to ensure the best durability. While they might not offer the same ride that Bilstein does, if you don’t head off-road or do a lot of hauling, you won’t complain about the performance.

3. Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas

Another high-end option for your 2005-2014 Toyota Tacoma is this complete kit from Bilstein. It comes complete with front ride height adjustable front shocks and the matching 5100 Series shock absorbers. On top of that, the front shocks are completely adjustable from 0-2.5”, but will not work with the five lug models.

With the direct bolt-on installation, you won’t have to get special tools or put forth too much effort. Plus, the shocks are zinc-plated for maximum durability. The 46mm digressive piston contains a self-adjusting deflective disc valve setting to make the ride control better than ever. If you’ve never upgraded your truck with Bilstein shocks, you are in for a real treat.

Yes, this set of shocks is on the higher side price-wise, but a look through the customer reviews shows that every penny is well spent. There's a reason that premium automakers, such as BMW, continue to trust Bilstein with the suspension system. Plus, you get to take advantage of that limited lifetime warranty that you will probably never need. It's still good to know that it is there if you should ever need it. If money isn't a big concern, we highly recommend upgrading your Tacoma with these Bilstein shocks.

4. KYB KG5522

If you need cheap rear shocks for Toyota Sienna, this option from KYB might be the replacement you were hoping for. It fits the 1998-2003 Toyota Sienna and provides a low-cost way to upgrade from the traditional twin-tube design. This monotube shock offers additional performance benefits. It adjusts to your needs and doesn't fade as a result of aeration. 

Even though it’s a monotube shock, it still has two working chambers. Plus, it contains an air-free hydraulic piston plus a specific valve area for complete control and responsiveness. It also includes all of the hardware required for replacement and won’t take you an excessive amount of time to install. Just look at the amazing amount of five-star reviews from customers who were happy that they upgraded.

Obviously, the best part is the price. Even though you are getting a slight upgrade from the stock equipment, you don't have to pay a fortune for the comfortable ride. The only downside is that the company only offers a one-year warranty. With that in mind, this isn't a shock you want to purchase expecting a long life. Instead, it's meant to give you a small upgrade at a reasonable price, but you will likely need to replace them more often than a higher-end alternative.

5. Bilstein 24-239370

If your truck or SUV has a coilover suspension, this Bilstein front shock is perfect for your ride. It fits the 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner and the 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma. With this shock, you can also gain up to 2.5 inches of lift. This lift is made possible with the snap-ring grooves on the body that provides for different spring seat positioning.

In addition, the monotube shocks have a 46mm digressive piston complete with a self-adjusting deflective disc valve setting. The ride height adjustable shocks provide improved handling and increased wheel travel. With the additional front lift, you can also achieve a level ride, which improves the appearance and the handling.

Now, you are going to spend a little more money on these shocks, but there are several things to keep in mind. First, the shocks are from Bilstein, which is a leader in the industry. Second, these shocks don’t just replace the existing equipment, but also add a slight lift. Finally, you gain access to a limited lifetime warranty, so you won’t have to worry about the durability or integrity of these shocks. If money isn’t your concern, then we highly recommend spending the extra and achieving the quality ride.

6. Bilstein 24185394

Bilstein also makes superior shocks for Toyota Tundra. This shock fits the 2000-2006 Toyota Tundra. These Bilstein 4600 Series shocks offer super dampening ability, ideal for off-road use and heavy hauling. Still, they offer perfect on-road travel for highway commutes and daily driving as well. Because these shocks self-adjust, you receive better control over changing road surfaces. The monotube construction offers superior heat dissipation, so you don’t need to worry about fading either.

The direct bolt-on construction means that almost anyone can install these shocks with ease. You won’t need to make any modifications or use special tools. The unique piston design also ensures a long life. Yes, you will pay more to buy from Bilstein, but you might never need to purchase another set of shocks again, making these a great value.

Your Toyota Tundra deserves the best, and Bilstein ensures that you get it. Splurge a little bit and show your pickup what it means to you. With these shocks, you also get everything needed to complete the install and a limited lifetime warranty. With so many five-star reviews, there’s no reason to question the integrity and quality of these shocks. Join the long list of happy customers. 

7. Fox Shocks

When you want high-performance shocks, you owe it to yourself to check out what Fox has to offer. This set of rear shocks fits the 2005-2019 Toyota Tacoma at factory height or with up to a one-inch rear lift. You can also use these with the 4WD trucks. Fox shocks include the latest technology to ensure maximum performance. The race-proven damping control offers a superior on-road ride, but also increases the off-road handling.

The aluminum body increases the cooling capacity and prevents rusting. Inside the shock, there is performance valving technology plus an internal floating piston that keeps the shock oil separate from the nitrogen gas-charged chamber. Your shocks come complete with everything needed for installation. You will get the washers, reservoir clamps, nuts, and bushings. Simply reuse the shock mounting bolts that are already on your truck.

You will pay more for these shocks, but the value comes into play when you figure that you probably won’t ever need another set again. It’s worth spending more if the quality is top-notch and durability is guaranteed. According to the customer reviews, Fox shocks are the best on the market. However, the company only offers a one-year warranty, but you shouldn’t need to take advantage of it.

Ideal Shocks for Toyota Tacoma

Before you pick out your next set of shock absorbers for your Toyota, you want to evaluate your driving style and what your needs are. While several types of shocks can be used in a variety of situations, here are a few recommendations we have.

Signs of Worn Out Shocks on a Toyota Tacoma

How to Change Toyota Tacoma Shocks

When the time comes to change your Tacoma shocks, follow these basic steps.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Will Tundra shocks fit Tacoma?

Some of the Tundra shocks will fit on the Tacoma, but you need to check the specifications of each product to know what’s compatible.

When I service my shock, do I need to service other parts of my car?

When you replace your Toyota shocks, you should also perform a complete inspection of the suspension system. If anything needs to be replaced, now is a good time to do it.

Is it okay to drive a car with a bad shock absorber?

A bad shock can negatively affect the handling of your Toyota car, truck, or SUV. Because of this, you don't want to run the vehicle with a bad shock. Otherwise, you could quickly lose control of the vehicle, especially if you hit a bump.

How much does it cost to replace shocks on a Toyota Tacoma?

If you plan to replace the Toyota Tacoma shocks on your own, you will only need to pay for the parts. Most shocks cost between $30 and $100 each, but you could easily spend more if you want additional capability.

Which will cost more in the long run, buying cheap shocks or investing in expensive ones?

You can save money today by purchasing cheap Toyota shocks, but you will likely need to replace them sooner. If you spend $60 on quality shocks and don’t need to replace them, you’ve saved money compared to the guy that paid $40 on shocks twice. 

Conclusion