We are reader supported. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Also, as an Amazon affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Jeep Wrangler owners are special breeds who have an incessant hunger for adventure on and off-road. You will be hard-pressed to find another vehicle that is as versatile and powerful as a Wrangler. From nimble rides around the town to off-roading in challenging situations, Jeep YJ does them all with ease.
Whether you use jeep for daily commute or weekend trips to the unbeaten path, the compact frame and sturdy construction of a Wrangler blend perfect in both worlds. One of the vital components responsible for giving you a smooth ride even on rocky terrain is the shocks.
The shocks absorb all pressure exuded from the wheels going over the bumps, rocks, and holes to prevent the impact from reaching you. For the ardent jeep enthusiasts, the factory shocks will not last more than 40-50k (may vary based on your location and riding style).
So, if you are looking for best shocks for jeep YJ to replace worn out factory parts or enhance your jeep’s capabilities, there are tons of options available out there. We know it’s not a tough job to find that perfect set of shocks from so many types, brands, and models available.
To save you time and ease your task, our team has reviewed several shock absorbers to pick high-quality products based on built, performance, features, and customer reviews. Read on to find our unbiased reviews of the top-rated shocks shortlisted after comparison and analysis.
If you don’t have the time to read until the end, we suggest the Bilstein 5100 Monotube Shocks (learn more) for their excellent dampening quality and amazing controls. It also has a high rate of heat dissipation for better on and off-road experiences, covered with a lifetime warranty.
#1. Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Set
Bilstein is one of the leaders in the market of aftermarket parts for jeeps and their 5100 Monotube Gas Shock Set is perfectly suitable for YJ due to their larger tires and heightened stance. As a lifted vehicle, they put extra pressure on the dampening ability of shock absorbers.
This gas shock set features a 5100 monotube design with patented digressive valving to meet the different demands of both on and off-road trips. The high-quality Bilstein shocks react almost immediately with the changing road inputs to maintain a controlled and stable ride.
In terms of performance, the Bilstein shocks stand high as their advanced monotube high gas pressure design enables excessive heat coming from the oil to get transferred to the exterior surface of the shock absorber to dissipate more efficiently. Also, the dividing piston allows oil to expand as heat increases due to friction, preventing aeration, and viscosity loss.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 10 x 10 x 30 inches
- Weighs 25 pounds
- B8 5100 Monotube Gas
- Fits 4WD vehicles
- 4 Shocks for vehicles w/3-4″ front Lift and w/3-4″ rear Lift
- Installation hardware included
- Limited Lifetime manufacturer’s Warranty
User/ Customer reviews
Most users have reported that these shocks were easy to install and they work spectacularly with a marked improvement in the performance post-installation. Some people have also said that customer support is very friendly and answers all questions quickly.
Conclusion
The Bilstein 5100 (learn more) are reliable and high-quality shocks that can bring about a huge difference in the way your vehicle rides on bumpy terrain. This shock absorber set works great with 3-4″ Lift and delivers an incredible performance. Furthermore, the lifetime warranty against defects and premature failure make it worth every penny.
#2. Bilstein 24-185660 Rear Shock for Jeep Wrangler YJ
The next product on our list is also from the Bilstein family and this time it is 24-185660 Rear Shock designed to fit the 4WD vehicles. Based on a 6mm Monotube design, the shocks come a self-adjusting deflective disc valving for improve performance on various terrains.
Bilstein 24-185660 features gas pressure construction and a design that is consistent and fade-free. With a zinc coating on the exterior, these shocks have a long life than other shocks in the market. They use a unique, digressive, and velocity-sensitive that reacts to different road conditions.
The shock absorbers come with all essential hardware needed to do the installation DIY and post replacement, it delivers a significant improvement in ride quality, comfort, and handling. We are pleased to know that the manufacturer stands behind the product with a lifetime warranty.
Product features and specifications
- Weighs 4.7 pounds
- Self-Adjusting Deflecting Disc Valving
- Eye 12.7mm
- Zinc coating
- Lifetime Warranty
User/ Customer reviews
People who have installed them on old or new jeep Wrangler models are pleased with the performance of the shocks in making the braking and control feel like new once again. Users have also said that the shocks fit well with mild lifts too.
Conclusion
The superior built and design of Bilstein 24-185660 speaks volumes about the brand which takes sit job responsibly and makes high quality shocks that work. They are not the cheapest shocks available in the market, but then quality comes for a price and you will definitely not repent investing in this rear shock.
#3. SENSEN 2990 Full Set of Shocks for 87-95 Jeep Wrangler
These premium-quality full set of shocks by SENSEN are engineered with precision to deliver an optimized level of performance and safety. Manufactured for trouble-free ownership and quality tested to the highest OE standards, these shocks offer improved comfort and control on all types of terrains.
Based on the twin-tube design and nitrogen gas-charged, the SENSEN shocks are specifically built to restore your vehicles to their original ride, control, and performance. The product only includes Shocks and Struts, not bearing plate, boot cover, top mount, bumper, insulators, or coil spring.
With a quality certification by ISO9001:2000 and ISO/TS 16949:2002, SENSEN shocks are a highly favored suspension brand of professional automotive technicians across the nation. The manufacturer backs up the product with a limited lifetime warranty against any defects.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 23.75 x 3.00 x 2.75 inches
- Weighs 27 pounds
- Powder Coated exterior
- Precision designed for a direct fit
- Certified by ISO9001:2000 and ISO/TS 16949:2002
- SENSEN limited lifetime warranty
- 1987-1995 Jeep Wrangler
User/ Customer reviews
Users found it easy to install the shocks to their jeep Wrangler YJ and this brought about an improved difference on the control and performance both on and off-road. Customers have also said that the shocks perfect fit the jeep offering a good function and drivability.
Conclusion
The SENSEN 2990 Full Set of Shocks is what you need to breathe a fresh lease of life to your old 87-95 Jeep Wrangler. Built with great precision, they provide a direct fit and restore the factory height ride settings. Overall, we feel that these shocks offer a good price to performance ratio.
#4. Rubicon Express SK010504RXT 4.5″ Twin tube Shock for Jeep YJ
When you want to make the optimum use of your Jeep Wrangler YJ, we suggest that you upgrade the dampening technology by installing Rubicon Express SK010504RXT. Based on a twin-tube design, these shocks feature an 11/16″ chrome shaft and rebound stops to minimize the bounce rate on an uneven surface.
The shocks kit is perfectly suited for 4.5 in. lift to give you enough space to fit wider tires to your jeep to improve the off-roading experience. It also minimizes tire wear to ensure that the jeep appears aesthetically appealing to the city dwellers that drive in an urban setting.
Furthermore, the lift is made of aluminum alloy to be able to sustain the weight of jeep, and resist other destructive elements like distortion, abrasion, and cutting action. These shocks serve as a direct replacement for OEM parts and the bolt-on installation takes only about 8 hours.
Product features and specifications
- Measures 32 x 8 x 8 inches
- Weighs 32 pounds
- Twin-tube Series
- 11/16″ Chrome Shaft
- Fits 1987-1995 YJ Wrangler YJ Models
- Lifetime Manufacturer’s Warranty
User/ Customer reviews
Users have mentioned that the shocks arrived in perfect conditions and they went in like dream and the jeep was ready to ride in a few minutes. Customers have also said that the absorbers felt great after installation and the ride was much smoother than before.
Conclusion
The Rubicon Express SK010504RXT (learn more) is undoubtedly one of the best shocks you can buy to improve the performance of your jeep YJ and feel like new again. Overall, we feel that this product delivers a great price to performance ratio.
#5. Skyjacker H7000 Hydro Shocks Set 1986-1996 Jeep Wrangler
When looking for the best shocks in the market, one of the great performing products we came across is the Skyjacker H7000 Hydro Shocks Set. This is a set of 4 well-built shock absorbers that feature a true velocity sensitive valving for optimum control and performance.
The shocks or spring dampers manage the rate at which suspension springs compress and bounce back to give users a smooth and comfortable ride. As the shocks are pushed together, this creates compression or bump. When the shocks expand, it gives you a rebound or extension.
The springs in the suspension are responsible for absorbing the pressure exerted due to bumps and the springs work at dampening the impact. Compatible with all 4WD vehicles, the product comes with required hardware such as bushes, washers, and nuts. It works with vehicles having a 5-6” front lift and 5-6” rear lift.
Product features and specifications
- Contains 4 Shocks and 4 Shock Boots
- Compatible with 4WD vehicles
- Fits vehicles with 3.5-4″ front lift
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Factory Hardware for Installation
User/ Customer reviews
Most users find the shocks great looking and well built to fit a robust vehicle like the 1986-1996 Jeep Wrangler. Experienced jeep enthusiasts find it easy to install the shocks DIY using the included hardware such as bushings, washers, and nuts. A few users have said that the factory mounting bolts can be reused for installation purposes.
Conclusion
This Skyjacker Hydro Shocks set promises to deliver high-quality dampening capacity to ensure that you don’t feel the impact of bumps and pits on rugged terrain. These shocks do an immensely great job of controlling all the energy that is preserved in the springs. Overall, we feel that Skyjacker shocks are worth the price you pay.
Buying Guide: Things To Consider Before Choosing The Best Shocks
Before you click on the ‘add cart’ button and select any of the above-mentioned shocks, please remember that what works for you may differ from others. While all the products mentioned above are great value, here are a few things to consider before choosing the best shocks.
#1. Types of shocks
Usually, there are three types of shock absorbers in the market. Each of the designs is catered towards a different crowd. There are typically three types of shocks – monotube design for off-roading experiences, twin tube design (Hydro series, and Nitro) for highway commuting, and the external reservoir design for a countryside adventure.
#2. Driving style
This is a continuation of above and based on the type of riding you do on a daily basis, the type of shocks suitable for you may vary. With the right quality of shock absorbers, you will be able to improve your performance for typical daily commuting and also for off-road driving.
#3. Heat Dissipation
If you cover long distances on your vehicle, you will require an advanced shocks technology that is capable of dissipating the heat efficiently. This will not only give you a consistent dampening effect through different types of terrain but also a much more extended service.
Related Questions
Should I choose oil shocks or gas-powered shocks
Many jeep users find the oil shocks more economical, however if you are looking for improved performance then you must opt for gas-powered shock absorbers. The gas shocks come as an upgrade as they contain extra nitrogen gas layer used as a dampening cushion.
What are aftermarket parts better than OEMs
This is a long-running debate, but honestly, it depends entirely on the customer. The OEMs are less complicated and much easier to install. However, they lack extra functionalities that you can only find with the aftermarket jeep parts.
How can I tell if my jeep shocks need replacement
When the ride becomes uncomfortable and bumpy even on the smoothest road, this implies the shocks are not providing adequate dampening. So, this is the time to get a specific shock absorber to restore your jeep to its original glory.
See Also:
8 Best Speakers For Jeep Wrangler Sound Bar
6 Best OBD2 Scanners For Jeep
9 Best CB Radios for Jeep