Best Replacement Shocks for Ford Ranger – Top Brands Reviewed for 2021

Ford trucks are known for providing plenty of capability and style, but the Ranger is among one of the enthusiasts’ favorites. However, without the best replacement shocks for Ford Ranger, the ride can be anything but enjoyable. Whether you are towing or heading out for your daily commute, high-quality shock replacements can change the entire ride.

With our in-depth guide, you can get the Ford Ranger front suspension upgrade you desire. We take a look at the various aspects of a good suspension, show you when it is time to change the shocks and pick the best models for you to consider.

What are Ford Ranger Shocks?

Shocks are a shortened name for shock absorbers. This vital suspension part creates a smooth ride, but it is also involved in car safety. The automotive shocks work just like an oil pump does. At the one end, there is a piston, while the other end operates opposite of the pressure tube’s hydraulic fluid.

As the suspension travels, hydraulic fluid moves into the tiny piston orifices. As the fluid travels, the piston slows down, further affecting the movement of the suspension. When the Ranger shocks work right, vehicle vibration, ride comfort, tire wear, braking power and driving stability are all improved.

Benefits of Ford Ranger Shock Replacement

When you install the best shocks for the Ford Ranger 4×4, you can expect the following benefits.

• Elevated Comfort: With high-quality shocks, everyone in the truck cabin experiences more comfort, even while traveling over bumps and rough terrain.
• Increased Stability: When the shocks dampen the bumps, stability is increased. Traveling down a flat highway might not be an issue, but once the truck hits rough terrain, you want this stability to ensure better control over the Ranger.
• Heightened Safety: Shocks help you keep the truck under control. Without a good set of shocks, you put you and others on the road in danger.

Ford Ranger Suspension Parts: Buying Guide

As you look at shocks for your Ford Ranger suspension, consider these essential factors.

Fitment

If you are in the market for 1999 Ford Ranger shocks, looking at the options listed as 2001 Ford Ranger shocks might not be ideal. Sure, they might fit, but it’s always better to ensure the shocks work with your vehicle, including if it is a two- or four-wheel-drive model.

Truck Application

The way you use your Ford Ranger will dictate what type of shocks you need. You want to ensure that the Ranger shocks are designed for your intended purpose. If you spend most of your time driving down well-paved roads without the truck bed full, an OEM replacement should work perfectly. If you plan to go off-road or tow heavy loads, go with an upgrade instead.

Lifted vs. Stock

If you haven’t made modifications to your suspension, finding Ford Ranger shocks won’t be difficult. However, if you have lifted the Ranger and added height to the suspension, you need to be sure that the shocks can accommodate the new configuration.

Shock Type

With several different types of shocks to evaluate, you need to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. We look at the types more in-depth later, but the bottom line is the twin-tube is the cheapest option, while a coilover is going to be best for heavy-duty needs.

Lifespan

What is the point of replacing your truck shocks if you have to do it again after 20,000 miles? You want to choose a high-quality set of truck shocks that are going to last. You can find this information when you read through customer reviews. If the shocks have corrosion-resistant properties, they will probably last longer.

Cost/Warranty

Cheap Ford Ranger shocks are available, but they could end up costing you more down the road. Instead of sacrificing the quality to save a buck, choose a reputable brand with a decent warranty. You may even save money across the long haul because you won’t need to replace them any time soon.

Ford Ranger Shocks Review: Our Top 7 Picks

1. Gabriel 43167 Rear Load Carrier Review – Best Ford Ranger Rear Shocks

If you need 2002 Ford Ranger shocks, you really can’t go wrong with this set from Gabriel. One look at the customer reviews proves it is a top Ford Ranger rear shock replacement option. The combined shock and spring technology gives you more damping performance across uneven terrain.

Plus, the springs ensure maximum stability, so you have more control over your Ford truck. Each pair of rear springs provides 500 pounds of load capacity, ensuring more support while hauling heavy goods. Even though these are considered heavy-duty shocks for Ranger trucks, you don’t have to pay a premium price.

However, this set isn’t going to work on newer Ranger models. If you have one of the latest pickups, you will need to choose something different.

Features:

• Compatibility: 1999-2011 Ford Ranger
• Shock Type: Coilover
• Collapsed Length: 13.875″
• Extended Length: 22.90″
• Material: Steel
• Warranty: 3-Year/36,000-Mile
• Leak-Proof Piston Seal

Pros	Cons
Heavy-duty construction	Only fits older Ranger models
Lengthy warranty
Improves stability
Included spring technology

2. Monro-Matic Plus 32237 Review – Lowest Ford Ranger Shock Replacement Cost

You don’t have to spend more than needed to get 2000 Ford Ranger shocks. Monroe offers one of the cheapest Ford Ranger shock replacement options. Ideally, you would use these twin-tube shocks to replace the existing Motorcraft shocks. With the Velocity Proportional Valving (VPV) technology combined with the special fluid, friction is reduced for a smoother ride.

Additionally, the nitrogen-charged shocks ensure proper road contact with the tires and reduce aeration. The large bore offers efficient damping and the self-lubricating seal is going to reduce friction on the piston rod, ensuring a longer life.

The lower price should tell you that you aren’t going to get a high-performance shock with this model. However, this set is going to fulfill your basic shock needs, especially if money is tight. While you might need to change them more often, it will get you by for now.

Features:

• Compatibility: 1983-2011 Ford Ranger
• Shock Type: Twin-Tube
• Collapsed Length: 13.875″
• Extended Length: 22.875″
• Material: Steel
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime
• Velocity Proportional Valving (VPV)

Pros	Cons
Low cost	Not as durable as some others
Limited lifetime warranty
Less aeration
Replaces OEM shocks

3. Bilstein 24-188258 Review – Best Shocks for Ford Ranger 4×4

These Ford Ranger Bilstein shocks will work with a variety of trucks, including the 4WD Ranger. As a monotube shock, you can count on superior heat dispersion, proving better protection from vibration over time.

With the fluid inside the shock, there is less aeration, plus installation is simple. With a durable construction made from lightweight materials, you can rely on the anti-corrosion properties, ideal for people who drive in extreme climates. As far as the best shock brands are concerned, it’s difficult to compete with Bilstein. This manufacturer supplies shocks for race car drivers and luxury models.

Sadly, this level of performance is going to cost you. What you will spend for one shock from Bilstein, you could have purchased an entire set from a cheaper brand. However, the quality is unsurpassed by anyone else, ensuring you a longer service life and better performance.

Features:

• Compatibility: 1998-2011 Ford Ranger
• Shock Type: Monotube
• Collapsed Length: 16.14″
• Extended Length: 26.36″
• Material: Steel
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime
• Anti-Corrosion

Pros	Cons
Superior Performance	Expensive
Limited lifetime warranty
Heavy-duty construction
Reliable brand

4. Belltech 8000 Nitro Drop Review – Best Ford Ranger Front Shocks

You can get better performance than the OEM shocks while still saving a little money with the Belltech Nitro Drop. This value-based performance shock has a unique twin-tube design that avoids aeration. The high-pressure nitrogen is part of a cavitation-free valve train to increase effectiveness.

These 2001 Ford Ranger shocks fit a variety of trucks, even if you have added a lowering kit to the suspension, up to 2.5 inches. Plus, the shock contains a durable metal dust boot for a cleaner environment and longer service life. You can expect an overall boost in comfort and control versus the stock shocks.

With that said, you still aren’t going to get the same level of performance as with a monotube or coilover shock. However, not everyone wants to spend a lot of money to get a decent ride, which is what this replacement is perfect for. Grab a great value and better performance all in one shot.

Features:

• Compatibility: 1998-2011 Ford Ranger
• Shock Type: Twin-tube
• Collapsed Length: 8.86″
• Extended Length: 13.19″
• Material: Steel
• Warranty: 2-Year
• Cavitation-Free Valve Train

Pros	Cons
Works with lowering kits	Not high-performance
Great value
Highly rated
Easy installation

5. Rancho RS5000X Review – Most Reliable Ford Ranger Front Suspension Upgrade

You don’t need to look further for your Ford Ranger front shock replacement. Rancho has your needs covered with this set of front shocks. Yes, they are a little expensive for twin-tube shocks, but these aren’t set up like your typical OEM replacements. In fact, the front shocks will work with your lifted Ranger, up to 2.5-inches.

It also works with 2WD and 4WD Ranger models. If you are looking for an easy installation, you can’t ask for much more than this kit that includes the nuts, bushings and washers. Just reuse the factory mounting bolts to get the job done fast.

The best part about Rancho is the limited lifetime warranty. Plus, the company offers a 90-day ride guarantee, so if you aren’t happy with the quality, the company will take them back, no questions asked. However, it’s unlikely you will need to take advantage of this guarantee.

Features:

• Compatibility: 1998-2011 Ford Ranger
• Shock Type: Twin-tube
• Collapsed Length: 11.250″
• Extended Length: 17.375″
• Material: Steel
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime
• 90-Day Ride Guarantee

Pros	Cons
Works with lift kits	Only twin-tube design
High-performance
Limited lifetime warranty
Simple installation

6. Maxorber Review – Best Ford Ranger Shocks Set

This set of options wouldn’t be complete without a Maxorber shocks review. If you need 1999 Ford Ranger shocks, you have to check out this set of four replacements, guaranteed to make your job easier. Not only does this set provide a great value, but you will notice a comparable performance to the factory ride.

The chromed piston rod provides better damping power across all types of terrain. These shocks can offer more control and better handling without breaking the bank. With the nitrogen gas charged shocks, you also gain more stability and increase stopping power.

This set of shocks proves you don’t need to break the bank to get a better ride quality. However, it’s important to note that the company doesn’t have as many good reviews as some of the other options. Plus, there’s only a 30-day warranty. If you can afford to get something a little better, you might be happier.

Features:

• Compatibility: 1998-2009 Ford Ranger
• Shock Type: Twin-tube
• Collapsed Length: N/A
• Extended Length: N/A
• Material: Steel
• Warranty: 30-Day
• Chromed Piston Rod

Pros	Cons
Great value	Not a good warranty
Complete set of shocks	Lack of customer reviews
Durable construction
OEM replacement

7. Bilstein Ranger Shocks Review – Best for Towing

No products found.

If you will be towing or carrying heavy loads, this Ford Ranger shocks review is for you. As we recently discussed, Bilstein is known for making high-quality shocks that you can rely on. For this reason, it only makes sense to buy a complete kit and upgrade the truck all the way around.

This set of four shocks is compatible with 4WD vehicles. Plus, the shock boots are included for a superior performance. Because Bilstein creates monotube shocks for your Ranger, you can also count on a longer service life and superior durability. Installation will be easier with the included nuts, bushings and washers.

With Bilstein’s limited lifetime warranty, you know you are protected against premature failure and defects. However, you will need to pay for this kind of reliability and performance. With that said, you shouldn’t need to change them again for quite some time.

Features:

• Compatibility: 1998-2011 Ford Ranger
• Shock Type: Monotube
• Collapsed Length: N/A
• Extended Length: N/A
• Material: Steel
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime
• 4WD Compatibility

Pros	Cons
High-performance	Expensive
Complete set of shocks
Strong construction
Easy to install

No products found.

Types of Shocks for Ford Ranger

As you look through the selection of Ford Ranger shocks, consider these five types and what they offer.

Twin-Tube 

Twin-tube shocks have both an outer and inner cylinder. The outer cylinder has a reservoir where the hydraulic fluid is located, while the working (inner) cylinder contains the piston and shaft that move up and down. The shocks base valve handles the transfer of fluid among the two cylinders while also providing damping force. Additionally, the piston control valve is responsible for a lot of the function.

Pros	Cons
Cheapest	Aeration occurs when air mixes with fluid, causing performance issues
Perfect for highway travel and commuting	While traveling at high speeds, it heats up quickly
Compatible with most vehicles

Gas Charged, Twin-Tube

This shock is still a twin-tube, but it holds gas to offer a small improvement compared with the conventional design. Replacing the oxygen is nitrogen which produces less aeration for a boost in performance while still maintaining a low cost.  

Pros	Cons
Aeration is reduced because of nitrogen	Gas tends to leak over time
Prevents brake diving	Shorter service life
Faster rebound

Monotube

With a single cylinder shock design, you still get two sections. One holds the fluid, while the other has the gas. Inside the fluid section, the shaft and piston are moving, but gas doesn’t need to mix in because the valve is responsive. With this unique construction, you are assured more performance, plus no aeration issues.

Pros	Cons
Mount in either direction	Costs more
Handles heat dissipation better	Reduced travel
Strong construction
Provides superior damping

Reservoir

Reservoir shocks don’t need to be connected in the typical location, but can be installed remotely with a piggyback or hose. While this shock is similar to the monotube, it provides upgraded travel and heat dissipation ability.  

Pros	Cons
Reliable damping	Expensive
Zero aeration	Could require a mount
Adds travel	More difficult to install
Re-buildable

Coilover

With a coilover shock, you get the coil spring plus the absorber in one piece. Around the shock housing is a coil spring that gets mounted in conjunction with the OEM struts and springs. In some cases, it will support the truck’s weight.

Pros	Cons
Some models are adjustable	Expensive
Perfect for hauling and towing large loads	Often require a special mount
Can be rebuilt	Difficult to tune

Signs You Need Ford Ranger Front Shock Replacement

Whether you are dealing with a possible Ford Ranger rear shock replacement or you think the front set might be bad, here are a few symptoms you want to watch for.

Veering

When your truck starts to veer while heading through the wind, there could be a problem with the shocks. Leaking and worn-out shocks create unsteadiness while driving, causing you to correct often while dealing with wind.

Uneven Tire Wear

If your tires are wearing unevenly, there’s something wrong with the truck’s suspension. When there is an issue with the suspension, the tires may not be firmly planted on the roadway. What you are left with are patches of wear on the tire tread.

Shake, Rattle & Roll

Your truck might not be a luxury vehicle, but the ride should still be enjoyable. If the shocks are worn, you might notice rattling, shaking and rocking any time you hit a minor road imperfection. The suspension is in charge of controlling vibration from impacts, but the worn shock can’t handle what the road throws at it. While the rattling is uncomfortable, it can also put pressure on other suspension parts and cause more wear.

Dipping or Swerving

When you try and stop your truck, any dipping, swerving or diving could be a sign of trouble with the shocks. This problem becomes especially dangerous if you are driving when the roads are wet or icy.

Steering Wheel Vibration

If you hit an uneven patch of the road, you might feel some vibration, but if this problem is occurring on all roads, it could be caused by bad shocks. The vibrations may even become more intense while traveling at faster speeds.

Longer Time to Stop

Worn shocks increase braking distance, which could lead to an accident. However, this problem could also be due to bad brakes, which is why a complete inspection is needed.

Testing Your Ford Ranger Shocks

The easiest way to test your Ranger shocks is with the following steps. Take your Ranger to an empty parking lot nearby. When no one is around, accelerate hard. Quickly, brake hard to stop the pickup.

If the rear end of the truck continues to bounce, you might need new rear shocks. However, if the front of the truck dips toward the ground when you brake, it’s the front shocks that might be your problem. You can also see excessive bouncing when you are driving down the road. It would be most noticeable when there is a lot of wind or you are driving across roads with imperfections.

We are also fond of the “bounce test.” Park your truck and push down on one corner. As you let go, the Ford pickup should bounce up slightly but settle back down in its appropriate location. If your truck bounces more than two times, you have an issue with the shocks.

Additionally, you can do a visual inspection of the shocks. They should be smooth with no dents and straight with no bends. Also, you don’t want to see any fluid or oil on the shocks. If you notice anything strange, it’s best to replace the shocks before your safety is compromised.

How to Perform a Ford Ranger Rear Shock Replacement

Whether you need to replace the rear set or you are looking to perform a Ford Ranger front suspension upgrade, the steps remain the same. In many cases, it’s best to use a professional mechanic if you aren’t sure what you are doing. However, you won’t need any specialized tools.

1. Park your Ranger on a level spot.
2. With a floor jack, carefully lift the truck and secure it on jack stands.
3. Take off the old shock. In some cases, WD-40 or PB Blaster might be needed. Let the chemicals sit on the stuck bolts for a few minutes before trying to remove them.
4. Attach the new shock absorber to the suspension control arm. You will need to apply some pressure. Hand tighten the screws.
5. Make sure everything gets tightened according to the torque specs you find in the Ranger service manual, or you might have trouble removing it later.
6. Repeat the same steps with all of the Ranger shocks you want to replace.
7. Test drive the Ranger to see how the upgraded shocks feel.

Here is a visual explanation showing how to replace 2002 Ford Ranger shocks on the front of your truck.

Extend the Lifespan of your Ford Ranger Suspension

No one enjoys replacing truck shocks, which is why you don’t want to do it often. Here are some maintenance tips to keep in mind.

Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

If the air pressure in your tires is off, you can quickly wear out the shocks. Plus, low tire air pressure can also cost you more at the pump.

Inspect Tire Tread & Get Wheel Alignment

It’s simple to check the tire tread while you are filling the tires. If you notice any unusual wear, you want to have it checked out right away before you face a blowout. Additionally, make sure the wheels are aligned for better support to your shocks. Generally, a wheel alignment should occur once every two years or every 30,000 miles. It should also be done after you lift the Ranger or add suspension parts.

Perform Regular Ranger Suspension Inspections

The suspension bushing and joints should be regularly checked for wear. You also want to lubricate the ball joints and tie rod ends on older trucks. If you inspect the shocks, you should notice signs of leakage if they start to wear out. By replacing the shock at the first sign of trouble, you avoid causing further wear to other suspension parts.

If you are in an accident with your truck, it’s important to have it looked over carefully. While you might not have any trouble, consider the damage that could be lurking under the truck that you don’t know about. Suspension parts are easily damaged when one of the wheels gets hit.

Ford Ranger Shocks FAQs

Do I need heavy duty shocks for towing?

It’s always wise to upgrade your shocks if you plan to tow and haul. Better shocks increase stability and improve your level of control. With the right shocks, movement will be slowed and more control will be available.

How long do shocks for Ford Ranger trucks last?

Even with a pair of cheap shocks, you should be able to drive 50,000 miles. However, if you upgrade to a good brand, it’s possible to get 100,000 miles on the shocks before they need to be replaced.

Can I replace my Ford truck shocks myself?

With some basic tools and mechanical expertise, you can change your 2000 Ford Ranger shocks on your own. In many cases, the most difficult part of the replacement is removing the old shocks, which can be stuck.

What is the Ford Ranger shock replacement cost?

Typically, the Ford Ranger shock replacement cost will be between $250 and $350 per shock. The parts should cost you between $100 and $200, while labor will make up the rest of your cost. If you can change the shocks yourself, you might be able to save some money.

What are Ford Ranger struts?

Ranger struts are a structural suspension component connecting the chassis and the body together. Truck struts are flexible yet quite strong. They are created to absorb some of the force that occurs while driving, but they also support the vehicle’s weight.

Conclusion

To find the best replacement shocks for Ford Ranger, you simply need to know where to look. Our complete reviews guide offered numerous options that help you get a better ride.

Here’s a recap of our top 7 picks: