7 Best Replacement Shocks for Toyota Tacoma

A Toyota Tacoma is indeed a fantastic vehicle that should deliver a comfortable ride even on rougher terrain. However, what happened if the trip becomes a little bumpier?

And if you’re experiencing issues with your car’s steering or brakes, or if you’re seeing fluid leaks? It’s possible that the problem is caused by the shocks.

When your car’s shocks wear out, you’ll usually notice it, so if you’re having difficulties driving, it’s probably time to repair them.

Because they support the whole vehicle’s weight, Toyota Tacoma shocks absorb a lot of abuse. It’s better to upgrade your shocks if you’ve exceeded the recommended mileage (see the owner’s handbook) or if you notice the damage.

Best Replacement Shocks for Toyota Tacoma

The good thing is that there are a lot of options available right now, so you can choose the finest Toyota Tacoma shocks. You not only receive a new set of shocks, and you also have an upgrade! So, you need to get the Best Replacement Shocks for Toyota Tacoma.

What shocks would you get, is the question. We’ll look at the best ones, including cost and advantages, and disadvantages, to help you decide which ones to choose.

We’ll also look at customer reviews to evaluate how drivers feel about their work. Here are our recommendations for the 7 replacement shocks. First, some quick reviews of your and which brands are the finest.

What are the Best Replacement Shocks for Toyota Tacoma?

Whenever it refers to the finest shocks for your Toyota Tacoma 4×4, there are a variety of options on the market.

As a result, deciding what product is the perfect fit for your vehicle may be difficult.

According to our research and recommendations, the Bilstein 5100 Shock is indeed the finest shock for Toyota Tacoma 4×4.

Let’s take a look at some of the top Toyota Tacoma shocks on the market right now, without further ado.

These are listed in no particular sequence, and each has advantages and disadvantages based on your needs-

Bilstein (24-186728) 5100 Series Shock Absorber

The Bilstein 24-187367 Shock Absorbers are first on the list. There is no finer product on the market than this one. But what makes this product deserving of such high praise?

Honestly, these Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Absorbers provide several advantages. Let’s take a look at each one individually- Bilstein (24-186728) 5100 Series Shock Absorber

First off, the shocks have a superior dampening effect of their own. Due to this reason, they offer comfort even on the roughest of terrains!

You should know that this shock is designed for vehicles produced between 2005 and 2015.

Although the shock may be installed in cars from different manufacturers, such as PreRunners, it works the best in Toyota!

Here, the overall shock is a combination of four adjustable-height shocks that make your work a lot simpler.

The outside of the shock has been made exceptionally smooth such that you may get the desired aesthetics. Not only that, but you may also appreciate the lovely silver hue.

It’s never been simpler to install these shocks. The device comes with its own unique instructions, and installation is also quite simple and can be completed in about an hour.

However, I would advise you to get a professional to install your shocks.

For a few of you, that product may be the finest option available. It is not only dependable but also simple to use.

So, if this product seems to be something you’d like, go for it.

Pros

  • It is really simple to set up.
  • The entire driving experience is so much improved.
  • The shocks are of incredible quality.

Cons

  • In certain cars, its vibrations & wobbling may be unbearable.

 

DTA 70090X Full Set 2 Front Complete Strut Assemblies With Springs and Mounts + 2 Rear Shocks 4-pc Set Compatible with 1995-2004 Tacoma 4WD Only or 1998-2004 Tacoma Prerunner

The “DTA 70090X Full Set 2 Front Complete Strut” is the second option. We opted to place this product second because it isn’t the greatest kind of gear to buy, but it functions much better, unlike many other shocks on the list.

This shock has indeed been made very simple to install. When every other type of shock may be a bit more difficult to comprehend, this one focuses on creating your life simpler. The simpler installation means that you won’t even require that much time and effort behind it. But, if you think that things are getting outta hand, call a professional! DTA 70090X Full Set 2 Front Complete Strut Assemblies With Springs and Mounts

The shocks are essentially given nitrogen as well as all fluid, which significantly improves their performance. Added to that, the overall product has a powder-coated finish.

So you know you’ll be getting a gorgeous product right away. The powder-coated coating may also aid with heat resistance, ensuring that your product is not readily destroyed.

The kit comes with two shocks for the back and 2 shocks for the front, as well as everything needed for installation. With a few hand tools and some familiarity with DIY projects or auto repairs, these shocks may be fitted fast.

You may rely on this product to enhance your experience of driving and provide a smoother ride in general. Because the shocks endure a long time, they are still a favorite for many!

This product is fully assembled and ready to use straight out of the package. Only a few basic tools are required. Anyone with a little skill in this field will be able to change their shocks in no time.

The disadvantage of this device is it’s only suitable with Toyota Tacoma models manufactured from 1995 and 2004.

Pros

  • A less-priced alternative to pricey shocks with excellent performance.
  • The set is fully assembled and can be put up fast and easily.
  • It improves the car’s stability on the road.
  • It will suit all Toyota Tacoma 4×4 versions without any problems.
  • The kit provides excellent value for the money paid.

Cons

  • The shocks sometimes leaked immediately after installation.
  • The product does not come with adequate instructions.

 

Freedom OffRoad 03+ 4Runner/ FJ Cruiser -3” Lift Extended Nitro Rear Shocks

We’re talking about the “Freedom OffRoad 03+”. The nicest thing about such a model is how simple it is to put together — the directions are simple to follow, and it includes everything you need. It provides an extremely smooth ride and absorbs the stress of road bumps.

Other than that, the product’s high-quality design makes it a fantastic purchase for you as a customer. A twin-tube design is a reason for it to have lesser friction and also have utmost comfort ensured! Freedom OffRoad 03+ 4Runner/ FJ Cruiser -3” Lift Extended Nitro Rear Shocks

You may not notice it at first when you’re browsing for things since, unlike other types of products, this one isn’t seen as often in the public eye.

However, the assurance that the product will be enjoyable is always present. Because the product’s outside is painted, you may expect a flawless finish. It looks sleek and clean!

Users are generally pleased with the high performance of these shocks, with many praising the smooth ride they provide. However, a handful of users have reported that the shocks are wearing out faster than they anticipated.

Pros

  • Installation is simple.
  • A reasonable pricing point.
  • Absorbs the bumps in the road perfectly.

Cons

  • They seem to wear out rapidly for some individuals, which is bothersome.

 

Monroe Shocks & Struts Quick-Strut 171352R Strut and Coil Spring Assembly

We believe that the “Monroe Shocks and Struts Quick-Strut” tops the list in terms of dependability. These is the most reliable shocks we’ve ever encountered, & we can say that for multiple reasons.

Choosing this portion as your last option may be your safest choice. Monroe shocks are dependable since they never generate additional problems for the user. Be it an easier installation or providing additional comfort- the shocks will always work for you! Monroe Shocks & Struts Quick-Strut 171352R Strut and Coil Spring Assembly

A product’s reliability is often determined by how well it operates over time. In this situation, the shock is likely to linger for a long period without causing major issues.

This product is also assured to be safe, so you don’t have to be concerned about it being harmful after installation. The installation procedure has also been made very simple.

As you may know, restoring your vehicle’s height is beneficial since it produces fewer problems for your truck. That is precisely what this item does.

These shocks are also designed to aid in the control of the vehicle and provide the driver with a better driving experience. You’d buy anything if it improved the performance of your vehicle, and that’s precisely what this tool does.

These shocks are constructed from the highest quality steel and thick tubing. Furthermore, these shocks are unrivaled in terms of strength.

Although wear and tear couldn’t simply disintegrate them. That demonstrates how tough they are and how much they contribute to the long-term improvement of your truck’s performance.

When compared to other types of products, the product’s cost is relatively reasonable, therefore even the budget is rather high. The product is only available in one coloring, which I believe is fine considering how lovely it is.

Pros

  • After the shocks are installed, the car is handled better.
  • The shocks are a great match for a Toyota Tacoma.
  • They’re fantastic for elevating the truck’s front end.
  • Good price-to-value ratio.
  • With these shocks, the truck would ride like a new automobile.

Cons

  • It is possible that the installation will be difficult for certain people.
  • There were also minor variances between the shocks on the right and left sides in certain circumstances.

 

Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Set

Bilstein has been operating since 1873 and is a pioneer in the automotive business, having developed one of the earliest gas pressure shock absorbers.

Today, a number of vehicle and truck manufacturers, notably Mercedes-Benz and Toyota, use this German company’s shocks.

These “Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shocks” are pre-installed in your Toyota Tacoma and need no adjustments. Here, they are designed to suit both your back and front tires. Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Set

With a straight bolt-on installation, these shocks are simple to install. Here, a simple snap-ring-and-groove function allows you to modify the shock’s height. Overall height of the Bilstein shocks may be adjusted from 0 to 2.5″.

Shocks that employ gas pressure or give a smoother ride are more common. You’ll notice it the moment you get behind the wheel of your Toyota Tacoma with these upgraded shock absorbers.

Some customers complained that the shocks made their cars shake, however, we never saw any things of this sort!

Pros

  • For vehicles towing a trailer, this is a fantastic alternative.
  • The product will enhance the car’s performance as well as the quality of its rides.
  • Will work with cars that have extra gear put on them, such as a roof tent, fiberglass canopy, and so on;
  • When compared to standard shocks, the vehicle will ride smoother and better.

Cons

  • New shocks have leaked in certain situations.
  • The product does not come with instructions.

 

Detroit Axle – Front Struts Assembly + Rear Shocks Replacement for 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma

For the last 30 years, Detroit Axle has been producing high-quality shocks. So, we decided to feature this brand in our list. And, man! We loved this shock alright!

These Detroit Axle shocks will suit your Toyota Tacoma if it was manufactured between 2005 and 2015. Even inexperienced technicians may easily install these. Detroit Axle - Front Struts Assembly + Rear Shocks Replacement for 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma

Here, the o-ring that ensures a hermetic fit on the inflatable raft and safeguards the unit against dust and dirt, wear and tear, and fatigue is the feature that sets the item different.

These shocks are inexpensive and simple to use. After you install them, you’ll find that your Toyota pulls less in high-speed corners and handles better.

Pros

  • The shocks are simple to install since they don’t need any preparation.
  • The vehicle does not tilt in bends or at high speeds, which improves the ride.
  • Good value for the money, with the option of saving even more cash if you set up them yourself;
  • The shocks give the vehicle more lift while also making it simpler to drive on the road.

Cons

  • The installation of the shock on the front end might be difficult, if not impossible.

 

Rough Country 3″ Lift Kit w/N3 Shocks for 2005-2022 Toyota Tacoma – 74530

The last product on our list is the Rough country 3-inch lift kit. This raise kit is for Jeep Wrangler JK 2-Door models from 2007 to 2018.

Here, the raising kit can handle tires up to 35 inches in diameter! You can improve your overall driving talents with this package. Rough Country 3

This lift kit’s suspension aligns the front and back of your Jeep for improved balance.

The front and back high absorption absorbers showcase an internal putback disc spring, for improved energy absorption, offering you a wonderful off-road travel experience!

It also raises the ground clearance, resulting in a significantly smoother ride on almost any terrain! This raise kit’s installation is simple and straightforward.

And, the kit also has 100% bolt-on installation, making it even simpler to install and assemble. There’s also an instruction booklet provided, so even if you’re new to this kind of stuff, it’ll be simple to understand and use.

Pros

  • Extra clearance on the ground.
  • Coil springs that have been raised. Coil spring spacers, 0.75′′.
  • It retains factory ride quality after installation.

Cons

  • In the case of certain cars, they may create wobbling and vibrations.

 

How to Choose The Best Shocks for Toyota Tacoma

Do you need to replace the shocks in your Toyota Tacoma 4×4? Then, before deciding on the product you’ll use for your car, there are a few things to think about-

The Truck’s Use

Special shocks are not required for a truck that is used for traveling on standard roads. Large vehicles appeal to certain individuals because of the freedom to explore they afford.

However, unless you intend to drive your vehicle on rough mountain roads or transport hefty cargo, shocks are unnecessary.

A decent pair of shocks, on the other hand, can withstand the additional weight if you wish to add equipment to your truck, such as a spare tire mounting system, fiberglass canopy, and so on.

Also, if you want to tow a trailer on your vehicles, you’ll need stronger shocks, so keep that in mind while shopping for shocks.

Highways Vs Streets: What’s Better?

Your Toyota Tacoma 4x shocks will not be exposed to hard circumstances or big loads if you usually drive them on highways, smooth streets, or roads.

In this situation, the shocks will last a long time and, in most circumstances, will be protected from damage. In this scenario, normal shocks, that are not the more costly, will suffice. So, if you like to take your car on excursions occasionally, you may want to look into shocks that are more durable and can endure a bumpier ride.

Trail Vs Off-Road Adventures

Toyota Tacoma 4×4 vehicles that are often driven off-road, on paths not designed for conventional automobiles, and even on dunes, will need suitable shocks.

These shocks are more durable and will maintain the vehicle on the trail no matter what the weather conditions are like.

Tacoma Front Shocks Replacement

If you tow huge loads with your automobile or transport large types of hardware or goods, you’ll need gas-pressurized higher-end shocks to improve the performance of your vehicle.

These shocks would make your vehicle more dependable, reduce oscillations caused by large loads, and assist you in completing each work without risking damage to your vehicle or having to deal with road hazards.

Adding Additional Weight Through the Use of Various Parts

If you wish to add more equipment to your vehicle, keep in mind that this will add to the overall weight of the vehicle, which will affect how much wear and tear the shocks take.

As a result, you’ll need greater shocks in this situation, which should also be optimized to perform well on-road so you don’t notice the increased weight while driving.

Shock Absorber Condition of Your Vehicle

You must first determine the extent of the damage before replacing the shocks. You may need rear shocks since these are more prone to damage.

Perhaps your front end is lower, indicating that shocks are no longer performing their job and need to be replaced. Always consider the situation before making a decision.

However, if you really want to put bigger wheels & tires on your vehicle, you’ll probably have to replace all 4 shocks to accommodate the increased adjustment.

Right Budget

There are more available and inexpensive high-end shocks for vehicles and items. So it all relies on how much money you have to spend on such items.

It’s essential to think about whether you would install it yourself or whether you should get someone to do it for you.

Spending extra on high-quality shocks can keep you out of a lot of problems if you depend on the vehicle to navigate over rocky terrain and use it for different heavy-duty duties.

These variables will assist you in making the greatest option and locating the shocks which will best serve you without costing an arm and a leg.

How to Install Shocks on Toyota Tacoma?

Now, we’ll look at the ways how you install a replacement shock on a Toyota Tacoma. The process is quite similar to you attaching a shock for the very first time. Let’s go-

Replace the Front Shocks in a Tacoma

The first thing you should do is replace the front of the shocks in the Toyota. Don’t worry, we’ve compiled the steps for you-

Step 1

Use a floor jack to lift the front of Tacoma and jack stands to support the frame. With a tire iron, loosen & remove the nuts securing the front wheels, then place the wheels aside.

Determine the location of the shocks inside the chassis. They have the appearance of two pipes that slide in and out of each other and slot into the bottom of both a spring just below the wheel hub.

Step 2

Using a wrench as well as a ratchet, remove the bottom of a shock from the control arm. Loosen the top mounting screw and retainer from the upper edge of the shock above the spring, and the cushion.

Once you’re done, remove the shock and repeat the process on the opposite side of a Tacoma.

Step 3

Remove the retainers and cushions from the old shocks and replace them with the new ones. Now, attach the top cushion, retainer, and upper nut after installing the new shocks into the upper end of the coil spring’s mount.

Then, set the torque wrench’s dial to 18 foot-pounds and tighten the top screw until the wrench slips. After that, install the bottom bolts and tighten them to a tension of 29-foot pounds. Lastly, carry on to the opposite side of a Tacoma and repeat the process.

Replace the Rear Shocks

Congratulations! You’ve replaced the front shocks. But, half of the work is still left. You’ll now have to replace the rear shocks. The process will be quite similar, though! Let’s see how you should do it-

Step 1

Raise the Tacoma’s back end and detach the back wheels.

Step 2

Disconnect the stud and axle from the nuts, retainers, and cushions. Then, remove the shock and repeat the process on the opposite side of Tacoma.

Step 3

Place the new shocks on the frame and axle, cushions and retainers in place, and tighten the bolts to 19-foot lb.

Lastly, carry on to the opposite side of Tacoma and repeat the process. Then, lower the truck’s back end by mounting the rear wheels.

FAQ

Question: What Brand Should I Get For The Toyota Tacoma?

Answer: As you can see from the above, Bilstein is an outstanding brand for shocks. While other types of brands are as capable, this one comes out on top. Choose from the shocks from this manufacturer for the greatest efficiency and best performance, and you will not be dissatisfied.

Question: When Should Your Toyota Tacoma Shocks Be Replaced?

Answer: There are two scenarios in which you could need to replace the shocks in your Toyota Tacoma. The first is when you start to notice some serious issues, such as leaks or even the appearance of being broken.

The second would be when your engine reaches 50,000 or 100,000 kilometers on the clock. You should update the shocks in the Toyota Tacoma regardless of whether you observe any damage.

Question: Will Shocks Improve the Ride Quality of My Toyota Tacoma?

Answer: Yes! Trucks, it has been noticed, performs much better than predicted when equipped with the appropriate shocks. Shocks have a significant influence on how smoothly your Toyota Tacoma rides, and altering them may affect your whole driving experience. Changing your shocks every 100,000 miles can only make your ride better.

Final Words

The Toyota Tacoma 4×4 is a huge and dependable vehicle capable of doing a variety of challenging activities on diverse terrains.

It should never be used with broken shocks since it is inconvenient and dangerous both for the driver and the passengers.

It is advisable to replace the shocks, with better-performing shocks if the truck’s existing shocks have surpassed the acceptable mileage or show symptoms of wear and deterioration.

I hope our review aids you in your quest for the Best Replacement Shocks for Toyota Tacoma, which will provide a number of advantages for both the driver and the vehicle, including enhanced comfort, improved steering, more control, and a better stance.

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