10 Best Shocks and Struts for Toyota Tundra 2024 – Good Set for Your Four-Wheeler

Shocks and Struts for Toyota Tundra

What are the best shocks and struts for Toyota Tundra today? Well, this article is here to help you find out.

As a big car, Toyota Tundra needs all the suspension and stability it can get. In other words, it needs a good set of shocks to absorb the impact and a set of struts to keep the wheels on the ground.

Our Favorite Struts and Shocks for Tundra?

In our opinion, and after a lot of research, we concluded that Bilstein 5100 shocks and struts are by far the best model for any Toyota Tundra. Their runner-up and the best alternative option is Monroe 171347R.

  1. Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock – Overall Best Toyota Tundra Shocks
  2. Monroe 171347R Strut Assembly – People’s Choice Toyota Tundra Shocks
  3. Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Absorber Set for 07-17 – Best Value Toyota Tundra Shock Replacement

Why Bilstein 5100 is the Best Shocks and Struts Brand for Toyota Tundra?

Bilstein 5100 is a sturdy, hard, durable product that will not easily succumb to wear and tear.

Moreover, its design enables smooth driving on any terrain, especially off-road, and the shocks will make zero noise throughout the drive.

Toyota Tundra Shocks and Struts: Reviewing the Top 10

01. Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Set for 99-06

Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Set for 99-06

Features

  • Two front and two rear shocks
  • 46 mm ID bodies coated in durable Zinc plating
  • 46 mm digressive pistons
  • The smooth, non-Coilover rear shock body design
  • Grooved Coilover snap ring front shock body design

Bilstein is a well-known brand among Toyota owners. Most people looking for the best shocks and struts for Toyota Tundra cars tend to pick one of many Bilstein products.

The main reason behind the choice is high-quality craftsmanship and peak performance. And indeed, there will be more than a few Bilstein products in this article, so let’s kick things off with our top-rated pick.

The Bilstein 5100 set comes with four shocks, two for the front and two for the back. Both sets of shocks have a durable zinc-plated finish for that extra bit of quality.

The front shocks have a collapsed length of 336 mm and an extended length of 466 mm. In comparison, the rear shocks have a collapsed length of 351.5 mm and an extended length of 569 mm.

Neither of the shock sets contains a reservoir.

In terms of body design, the front shocks have a snap ring grooved Coilover body with a 46 mm inside diameter (ID). Thanks to this snap-groove design, the shocks can be in various spring seat positions.

On the other hand, the rear shocks have a smooth, non-Coilover body with the same ID. Each shock features a 46 mm digressive piston alongside self-adjusting deflective disc valving.

All of that provides the driver with a smooth drive over the bumpiest of roads.

These shocks are perfect for Toyota Tundra models from 2000 to 2006, but other Tundra model owners will definitely benefit from purchasing this product. It’s durable, flexible, and operates smoothly with every drive.

Pros
  • Exceptionally durable
  • High-quality outer coats and rings
  • Smooth, bump-free driving
Cons
  • It might not work with newer Toyota models

 

For a deeper dive into the best running boards for Tundra, take a look at our article

02. Monroe 171347R Strut Assembly – People’s Choice Tundra Shocks

Monroe 171347R Strut Assembly

Features

  • Pre-assembled strut
  • New stable bearing plate
  • Upper spring seat
  • Durable material and coating

Like Bilstein, Monroe is a brand famous for its high-end products. People can find quite a few strut and shock sets in various online top lists like this one.

And while there are certainly quite a few models to choose from, our top pick is the 171347R quick-strut assembly set. In fact, when it comes to the best shocks and struts for Toyota Tundra, it’s our runner-up.

There are quite a few details that make 171347R stand out. First and foremost, there’s durability. The coil spring of 171347R is made of grade-A US steel, perfect for supporting any Tundra’s height and weight.

Furthermore, the entire product is made using rubber-to-steel bonding, with additional steel plating for longer wear. In a word, this set of struts is tough.

Next, the 171347R’s upper spring seat transmits no noise or vibrations to the chassis, making it perfect for smooth, long drives.

And thanks to how durable it is, the Tundra will always stay balanced, even in rough terrain.

Finally, the product is straightforward to install. The owner won’t have to disassemble any of the components or compress the spring before placement.

It’s the perfect, time-saving solution that not too many struts have.

Pros
  • Incredibly tough and durable
  • Easy to install
  • Smooth, noiseless drives
Cons
  • It tends to bounce after a year of constant driving.

 

03. Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Absorber Set for 07-17 – Best Value Tundra Shock Replacement

Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Absorber Set for 07-17

Features

  • Monotube gas shock absorbers
  • Two front and two rear shocks
  • Strut bodies coated in durable Zinc plating
  • Patented digressive valving

No, your eyes are not deceiving you. That is indeed Bilstein 5100 again, but with slight changes. And it will not be the last 5100 on this list.

After all, this is a list of the best shocks and struts for Toyota Tundra. And if several models of 5100 stand out as the best, we will definitely include them and recommend them.

Let’s quickly go over all of the similarities with the previous Bilstein 5100. Namely, both products include monotube gas shock absorbers and struts.

The monotube high gas pressure design is the best solution for transferring extra heat from the oil to the outer surface.

That way, the heat dissipates more efficiently, and the car runs smoothly with no issues.

Next, both Bilsteins have the same dimensions, as well as the same basic weight.

In other words, both are tailor-made for heavy vehicles like the Toyota Tundra, and both have the capacity to keep the Tundra grounded during long drives.

The only real difference is the compatibility. This 5100 model might not connect to the 2006 Tundra models and below.

However, owners of new Tundras can rejoice, as it is almost a perfect factory fit that will maintain control and reduce any potential noise while in motion.

Pros
  • Durable and sturdy design
  • Noise-free driving
  • Maintains tire grip
Cons
  • It might not fit older Toyota Tundra models

 

04. Rancho RS9000XL Shock Absorber

Rancho RS9000XL Shock Absorber

Features

  • 9 levels of customizable damping control
  • Sturdy iron body with a liquid metallic finish
  • Polyvinyl protective boot for extra protection
  • Self-lubricating low-friction seal for smooth compression

Any product that declares it has 9 different levels of performance has our attention. And indeed, Rancho’s very own RS9000XL provides an amazing range of different damping options.

The easy-to-adjust knob can customize the strut for any vehicle model, including heavy hitters like the Toyota Tundra. Moreover, it is the first-ever product to do so.

Of course, it’s not just about adjusting the damping. The RS9000XL is also incredibly tough and durable, perfect for any hefty off-roader.

Double welding at specific loops and a hard iron body make this product immune to wear and tear, as well as corrosion.

More importantly, it can handle some massive temperature changes, from incredibly low to scorchingly hot.

The RS9000XL has been made to last. Firstly, there’s the liquid metallic finish, coupled with a protective boot made out of polyvinyl.

Both of them will make sure that the strut won’t fade away any time soon. In addition, the product contains a low-friction seal that can lubricate itself.

The seal will retain oil and gas to give your vehicle a quick rebound and some smooth compression.

Pros
  • Suitable for any Toyota model
  • Wide range of possibilities
  • Handles extreme weather and road conditions
Cons
  • Not suitable for hefty loads

 

If you’re interested in exploring related topics, our post on the best shocks for Toyota Tacoma might be of interest to you. 

05. Bilstein 4600 Shock Absorbers

Bilstein 4600 Shock Absorbers

Features

  • Monotube gas pressure technology
  • Direct bolt-on installation
  • Includes front and rear shock absorbers
  • Sturdy outer coating

Bilstein is back on the list, and this time it’s with a different set of shocks.

While this product might not be as durable as the 5100, it’s not on the list of the best shocks and struts for Toyota Tundra for no reason.

In fact, if you own any type of Tundra made between 2007 and 2014, this product will be just right for you.

The 4600 is another monotube gas absorber. That includes several important benefits. First off, you don’t have to worry about overheating.

These shocks will withstand some of the hottest environments out there. Next, there will be no foaming from the air inside the 4600 itself, making it safe to drive.

And finally, the handling and gripping will be seamless. With these shocks, your Tundra will handle extremely well both off-road and on asphalt.

Furthermore, the 4600 is astoundingly easy to install. The direct bolt-on technology will help you set these shocks up in mere minutes.

In addition, it is just as easy to remove and replace if you ever feel the need to do so. And the best part is that you don’t need any modification.

It just shows that even some of the older models of Bilstein still have something to offer, especially Toyota Tundra owners.

Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Durable and sturdy construction
  • Capable of withstanding harsh conditions
Cons
  • They don’t come with new bushings or washers

 

06. KYB KG9026 Gas-a-Just

KYB KG9026 Gas-a-Just

Features

  • Monotube gas shock with high-pressure nitrogen gas
  • Durable exterior
  • Seamless extruded mount
  • Air-free hydraulic piston and valve

Gas-a-Just and Toyota Tundra go hand-in-hand. This monotube gas shock feels right at home in a Tundra, almost as much as the original shocks your vehicle came with.

And while it may not perform as well as a Bilstein shock or strut might, it still deserves to be among the best shocks and struts for Toyota Tundra in 2024.

KYB truly did go above and beyond when they designed this set of shocks. Thanks to its monotube design and high-pressure nitrogen gas, the Gas-a-Just can do quite a bit of damping.

In fact, it can damp up to 25% more than original Toyota equipment shocks. And when you’re driving off-road with your Tundra, you need all the damping you can get.

Thanks to its unique design and capabilities, the Gas-a-Just can improve stopping distance a great deal, as well as stability while driving.

Furthermore, the steering response will increase, and drivers will no longer worry about ‘memory steering’ and late reactions to harsh turns.

Finally, no amount of rough driving will wear Gas-a-Just down. The seamless extruded mount at the end of the shock provides maximum durability for even the roughest of drivers.

Pros
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Increases damping and provide smooth driving experiences
  • 0% chance of foaming
Cons
  • They lose reaction time after about a year of driving.

 

07. Bilstein 5100 Shock Kit

Bilstein 5100 Shock Kit

Features

  • Monotube gas shocks
  • Direct bolt-on installation
  • Includes front and rear shock absorbers
  • Sturdy outer coating

The last 5100 on this list, this set of four monotube shock absorbers provides everything a Toyota Tundra owner might need. Once again, the only potential flaw of this product is that you cannot use it with older Tundra models.

Of course, if you own a 4WD Tundra made between 2007 and 2014, then these are the shocks for you. Not only do they provide amazing stability and steering control to your vehicle, but they do it without any risk of damage.

Your 5100 shocks will not see any wear and tear for a few years, at least. Also, this model is straightforward to install and remove, thanks to the direct bolt-on system.

Pros
  • Durable and sturdy design
  • Noise-free driving
  • Easy to install
Cons
  • It might not fit older Toyota Tundra models

 

08. DTA 50014 Strut Assemblies

DTA 50014 Strut Assemblies

Features

  • Fully-loaded struts ready for installation
  • Sturdy, durable body heat-treated and covered in powder
  • Insulated spring seats for smooth, silent drives
  • Filled with nitrogen for better performance

DTA is not necessarily a famous brand, at least not when we compare it to others on this list. In fact, a buyer might consider it too generic to even think about buying their struts.

So why would a no-name brand be in this article surrounded by the best shocks and struts for Toyota Tundra on the market today? Well, one only needs to take a look at their 50014 model and find out.

Since it is fully loaded, the 50014 will install in no time flat. More importantly, it will stay in place and provide all the support and stability that a Tundra needs.

Finally, each shock contains spring seat insulators. Driving with these absorbers will not produce any noise.

Pros
  • Smooth and silent performance
  • Durable and sturdy
  • Easy to install
Cons
  • It might not fit every Tundra vehicle

 

To learn more about Tundras performance chips, check out our detailed guide in our blog post.

09. Bilstein 4600 Monotube Gas OEM Shocks

Bilstein 4600 Monotube Gas OEM Shocks

Features

  • Monotube gas shocks
  • It fits both 4WD and RWD vehicles
  • Includes front and rear shock absorbers
  • Sturdy outer coating

The last Bilstein on this list is also a 4600; however, this is the OEM model without the direct bolt-in installing system.

Sadly, that might be its biggest flaw, but luckily the positive features far outweigh the negative.

This particular 4600 model is perfect for old Tundras made at the turn of the millennium. Unlike other Bilstein models here, it uses either air leveling suspension or Nivomat leveling.

As such, you might expect some foaming to appear. However, they are as smooth and silent as the rest of the shocks and struts on this list in terms of performance.

Pros
  • Durable and sturdy
  • It can fit several types of vehicles
  • Smooth and bump-free drives
Cons
  • It isn’t as easy to install as other models

 

10. Skyjacker H7062 Softride Hydro Shock Absorber

Skyjacker H7062 Softride Hydro Shock Absorber

Features

  • Chrome main body rod
  • Twin-tubed shock
  • Red bushings made of polyurethane
  • Sensitive valves for multi-stage speeds

Skyjacker’s H7062 Softride Hydro shock looks a bit like the Rancho RS9000XL. From the color choices to the shape, it’s almost one-for-one the same.

However, it does feature a few notable differences.

Firstly, Softride Hydro is a twin-tube shocker, quite different from the rest of the products here. Furthermore, the main rod of the body is covered in chrome, which is quite new for Tundra struts and shocks.

Finally, its bright red boot comes in an assortment of 15 different colors. Yes, you can actually choose what your Softride Hydro might look like.

Couple that with a decent performance and sturdy construction, and you have yourself a winner.

Pros
  • Durable and sturdy with chrome plating
  • Smooth performance
  • A choice of 15 colors
Cons
  • Somewhat shorter than most modern brands

 

Buying Considerations for the Best Shocks and Struts for Toyota Tundra

Toyota Tundra shocks

Getting the right set of struts or shocks is not easy, considering how many of them there are. So, before deciding on a set, here are a few important factors you should consider.

01. Material

Some struts will break down sooner than others. The difference between the two often comes down to the material, i.e., what they are made of.

Generally speaking, Toyota Tundra owners will need to buy a set of struts or shocks that will last for a long time, which means focusing on the best material possible.

Most modern shocks are made from either steel or aluminum. When we compare the two, steel products are far more durable. A typical steel strut (or shock) will last for years and won’t need replacing any time soon.

However, steel shocks and struts are far from perfect. In fact, the majority of Toyota owners tend to prefer aluminum ones.

After all, an aluminum set is easy to install, not as bulky as its steel counterpart and is quite affordable. It’s also much easier to replace than a steel product once it breaks down.

02. Shock Absorber Type

Overall, there are several types of shock absorbers in retail nowadays. The selection includes:

  • Monotube absorbers (they contain two pistons in a single tube)
  • Twin-tube absorbers (they contain an outer and inner tube)
  • Gas-charged absorbers (twin-tubed products that contain nitrogen instead of air in the outer tube)
  • Coilover absorbers (they contain a coil around the body of the shock)
  • Reservoir absorbers (they contain a small external reservoir filled with air and nitrogen)

Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the vehicle you install them in. So, the best thing for a Toyota owner is to research the type that works best with their particular Tundra.

You can check the product pages directly and read through the customer feedback.

Alternatively, you can register on forums directly related to Toyota Tundra maintenance and find out from the Tundra owners themselves.

03. Durability

Front Strut 2007-Present Toyota Tundra

We touched upon durability a little when we talked about the material. And yes, a huge portion of shock and strut quality relates to strong materials.

But that’s not the only factor. In fact, to find the most durable product, we need to consider a few other factors. For instance, the plating of each strut or shock is equally important.

In addition, we should always check how thick the pistons are and what kind of protection the shaft has. Generally, the thicker and harder it all is, the better.

04. Function

A low-quality pair of struts will make your Toyota wobble and bounce, both on and off-road. The main job of both shocks and struts is to keep the car in balance and make sure that the tires always come into contact with the ground.

If the product fails to do that, the owner has to look for a new set. Otherwise, they risk losing control of their vehicle and tumbling over at high speeds.

Another important feature that each strut and shock should have is noise reduction. While working, struts and shocks will inevitably produce sound, which sounds like metal-on-metal clanking.

If possible, always get a set that will produce as little noise as possible. The more noise your struts and shocks make over time, the more likely it is that you have to replace them.

05. Compatibility

Not all products will be the perfect fit for your particular car model. Even some of the best shocks and struts for Toyota Tundra can only work with a limited number of units.

That’s perfectly normal; after all, Tundras have been in production for decades, so they won’t always have the same internal configuration.

The best thing to do here is to contact the seller directly and ask about the supported Tundra models.

Alternatively, the car owner could check the online feedback for each product and product descriptions on the sales pages.

If possible, talk to your friends and acquaintances about their own experiences with these products.

06. Easy Installation

Struts ought to be easy to install. In fact, an average Toyota owner can replace their car’s struts in no time.

So, if the brand you’re looking for is hard to install or requires professional help, it might not be the brand for you.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with asking for help from a professional mechanic, even if it’s something as simple as replacing struts and shocks.

After all, it’s always better to play it safe and have these parts installed properly than to mess the installation up.

07. Brand Name

We touched upon several prominent brand names throughout the article, like Bilstein, Rancho, and Monroe. None of these brands are Toyota, of course, and finding genuine Toyota shocks and struts that are brand new is incredibly difficult.

In other words, the buyer will have to find a replacement part from a 3rd party brand. That’s why it’s important to look for the best brands out there.

There are hundreds of 3rd party strut and shock manufacturers, and very few of them will make high-quality stuff. However, if you invest in a product with brand recognition, you will get a set that works with your specific Tundra.

FAQ

Toyota Tundra

What’s the difference between struts and shocks?

Struts and shocks are both components of a vehicle’s suspension system that help to absorb bumps and vibrations in the road and provide a smooth, comfortable ride.

However, there are some key differences between struts and shocks.

Shocks are a standalone component of a suspension system and are typically used in vehicles with independent suspension.

They are designed to dampen the vertical motion of the vehicle’s wheels, helping to prevent bouncing and improve stability.

Shocks are mounted either horizontally or vertically and are usually located inside a coil spring or between the suspension and the frame of the vehicle.

Struts, on the other hand, are a complete suspension assembly that includes a shock absorber, coil spring, and other components such as a steering knuckle or bearing.

They are typically used in vehicles with a MacPherson strut suspension design and provide both damping and structural support for the vehicle.

Struts are mounted vertically and are usually located between the suspension and the body of the vehicle.

In summary, while both shocks and struts perform a similar function of dampening the motion of the suspension system, struts provide both damping and structural support, while shocks are a standalone component that is designed solely to dampen motion.

Struts are typically used in vehicles with a MacPherson strut suspension design, while shocks are used in vehicles with independent suspension.

Do all cars have shocks and struts?

Not all cars have shocks and struts, but most modern cars do have some type of suspension system that performs a similar function.

Shocks and struts are components of a vehicle’s suspension system that help to absorb bumps and vibrations in the road and provide a smooth, comfortable ride. Shocks are typically used in vehicles with independent suspension, while struts are used in vehicles with a MacPherson strut suspension design.

However, some vehicles, particularly older or smaller cars, may have a simpler suspension system that uses only springs and shock absorbers. Other vehicles, such as some trucks and SUVs, may have more complex suspension systems that include components such as air springs, torsion bars, or hydraulic systems.

If you own a Tundra that is missing one of these two sets, make sure to install it as soon as possible.

What will happen If I don’t replace the worn-out shocks and struts on time?

If you don’t replace either set on time, you can experience difficulties with steering, braking, or maintaining stability.

Shocks and struts control the rebound of the springs and support the weight of the vehicle. In addition, they prevent the tires from wearing out too early.

How do I know my shocks and struts are worn out?

shocks and struts are worn out.jpg

There are several telltale signs of shock and strut problems. So, make sure to replace them if you see any of the following:

  • Your Tundra tips to one side while in motion
  • Your Tundra is unstable at high speeds
  • The front end of your Tundra dives more than it normally would
  • The tires bounce excessively
  • Your Tundra’s rear end squats when you accelerate
  • There are unusual traces of wear on the tires
  • A liquid is leaking from the exterior of either the struts or the shocks.

Do faulty struts make noises?

If your struts are malfunction, they will make a hollow clunking noise. Sometimes it can even sound like the loud banging of metal against metal.

However, you can only hear these noises when the car is in motion and driving at high speed.

Should I replace all 4 struts at once?

t is generally recommended to replace all four struts at once, rather than just replacing one or two at a time. This is because the struts on each axle work together to provide balanced suspension and handling, and replacing only one or two struts can cause uneven wear and handling issues.

When you replace all four struts at once, you can ensure that they are all the same age, brand, and type, which can help to provide consistent handling and performance. Additionally, replacing all four struts at once can help to prevent the need for future repairs or replacements and can ultimately save you time and money in the long run.

Replacing all four struts at once is also important for safety reasons. Worn or damaged struts can affect the handling, stability, and braking of your vehicle, which can increase the risk of accidents and damage to other components of the suspension system.

How long do shocks and struts last?

The lifespan of either shocks or struts will depend on the vehicle. With small and average-sized vehicles like sedans or hatchbacks, shocks and struts can handle anywhere between 80,000 and 110,000 km.

However, with heavy-duty vehicles like the Tundra, the sets tend to wear out a bit earlier than that.

Should I align my Tundra after replacing the shocks and struts?

Yes, it is generally recommended to align your Tundra after replacing the shocks and struts. This is because the installation of new shocks and struts can cause changes in the alignment of the vehicle’s suspension system, which can affect the handling, stability, and tire wear of the vehicle.

When you replace the shocks and struts on your Tundra, it is a good idea to have the suspension system inspected and aligned by a qualified mechanic. They can check the camber, caster, and toe of the wheels and adjust them as needed to ensure that the vehicle’s suspension is properly aligned.

Proper alignment is important for several reasons, including improving handling and stability, reducing tire wear and damage, and increasing fuel efficiency. It can also help to prevent premature wear and damage to other components of the suspension system, such as the ball joints, tie rods, and control arms.

Conclusion

As you can see, our pick for the best shocks and struts for Toyota Tundra has many options to offer.

And while we have our own #1 product, we highly encourage our readers to go out there and do their own research. Hopefully, this article will help you find the best shocks and struts for your own Tundra today.

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