Best Shocks For Gmc Sierra: Which Is Winner?

Shock absorbers assume a critical role in keeping every vehicle ride as smooth as possible. Primarily, the general role of the shocks is to minimize the body movements of the vehicle.

As many of us know, the body of the vehicle tends to move up and down or even sideways as a response to your driving style or the conditions of the road. Regardless of how good your navigating skills are, driving a vehicle without a shock absorber will not only create a problem on your car’s suspension system but also increase the risk of accidents.

Making shocks one of the most important components of your vehicle is that it allows you to have exceptional control and stability when you are rolling or leaning in a particular direction. In addition to that, shocks are also at the forefront of reducing the wear and tear of your tire’s tread.

Best Shocks for GMC Sierra 1500 Review

In this article, we will provide you the best shocks for GMC Sierra 1500. We will also guide you on what are the things you should be anxious about before buying a shock absorber. If that sounds interesting, let’s hop into it.

We aim to show you accurate product information. Manufacturers, suppliers, and others provide what you see here, and we have not verified it. See our disclaimer.

Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Kit (Best Choice)

Throughout the years, leveling kits have become immensely popular in the automobile industry. Dissimilar to a prototype leveling kit, the Bilstein 5100 series shock kit is a full stand-in shock.

What is most attractive about the Bilstein 5100 series shock kit is that it enables drivers to maximize wheel travel without the need to induce a driveline bind or a ball joint for that matter.

The coupling also tends to be more proficient which makes it a good option if you are using the vehicle for hauling heavy materials.

Other than its ability to provide a GMC Sierra a better dampening, the 5100 series shock kit also comes with an adjustable front shock that can be calibrated from 0 to 1.75 inches to accommodate the lift and rear accomodate up to 1 inches of lift. It is also easy to install and exhibits a direct bolt-on setup which does not require any modifications.

Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Kit for Chevy Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500 2007-13 - Includes Front Ride Height Adjustable Shocks # 24-186940 & Rear Shocks # 24-186957 by Bilstein

• Kit includes Front Ride Height Adjustable and matching Rear 5100 Series Shock Absorbers.
• Front shocks adjustable from 0-1.75" of lift. Rear accomodate up to 1" of lift.
• Kit fits Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 2007-13.(Excludes electronic suspension)
• 24-186957 is superseded to 24-293082.
• Rear shocks are GMT900 Body Style

$419.02

It is also worth noting that the Bilstein 5100 series shock kit will also work splendidly with the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra.

The only downside, however, is that it comes with a hefty price tag but it’s worth investing in considering that the company also offers a lifetime warranty.

WULF Leveling Lift Kit

Developed by WULF Suspensions, the WULF Leveling Lift Kit features a 4WD torsion bar suspension which works with a GMC Sierra 1500 4×4 and a Chevy Silverado with makes and model ranging from 1999 to 2007.

The 4×4 torsion bars are also made up with high-quality material that is specifically constructed to help everyone achieve optimal ride performance but also maintain maximum wheel travel which is decisive when you are traveling off-road.

In addition to its inflexible front lifts, the WULF leveling lift kit is also packed with 3-inch rear lift blocks which exhibit comprehensive hardware and an all-encyclopedic U-bolt.

WULF 1-3" Front 3" Rear Lift Kit for 1999-2007 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 4WD (Pro Comp Shocks)

• Fits 1999-2007 Chevy Chevrolet GM GMC Silverado Sierra 1500 4WD 4X4 Torsion Bar Suspension Only
• Front: 1"-3" Adjustable Front Lift Torsion Keys
• Rear: 3" Rear Lift Blocks with Extended U-bolts and Hardware
• Front and Rear ProComp ES9000 Extended Shocks (Ships separately UPS)
• Other Rear Block Options Available: 1", 1.5", 2"

$344.95

The WULF leveling lift kit is highly recommended for beginners who have little to no knowledge about their vehicle’s suspension. The torsion keys are fairly easy to install and do not need any modifications. On top of everything else, it also presents buyers with multiple rear block options which range from an inch to two inches.

Rancho Suspension RS5000 (Best Deal)

If you are looking for the most economical shock for your GMC Sierra 1500, then the Rancho Suspension RS5000 from Rancho is your best bet.

The Rancho Suspension RS5000 kit is comprised of front and rear RS5000 shocks that are designed to even the weight of large 4WD vehicles.

Typically, the Rancho Suspension RS5000 shocks come in white with red-painted protective boots. It might also provide particularized tuning for each vehicle thanks to its ten-stage velocity sensitive valving method.

The RS5000 is also super easy to install and rarely requires jacking up. It is, however, essential to note that the ride can be a bit stiff on small bumps like the expansion joints and cracks. Nonetheless, it is without question that it has features that could make it way better than stock shocks which often cause the vehicle to continuously jiggle and bounce regardless of what road you are driving on.

Rancho RS55265 RS55198 Pairs of Shock Absorbers for Chevrolet Silverado 1500 GMC Sierra 1500

• Kit includes front and rear RS5000 shocks for stock height vehicles.
• Shocks include red protective boots.
• Ten-stage velocity sensitive valving provides tuning specific for each vehicle.
• 5/8-in. (16mm) diameter piston rod and 1 3/8-in. (35mm) diameter piston.
• Limited Lifetime Warranty

$195.18

This leveling kit can be a great option for if you are living in a location with a significant amount of potholes and road inconsistencies. The RS5000 could provide you with an added control especially if you are trying to make a turn on roads that are surrounded by dirt and rocks.

It is also essential to take into account that the bushings of the RS5000 are tinier as opposed to stock shocks.

Avoid using OEM bushings to replace their current bushings as it could result in instabilities within your suspension since the threaded section of the piston is subordinate compared to the OE application.

Also, make sure that you pay close attention to the bushing positions prior to the installation since it does not come with any instruction manuals. Above all, Rancho Suspensions also provide a lifetime warranty for the RS5000 leveling kit.

Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers

Another shock absorber for GMC Sierra 1500 that is offered by Bilstein is the 4600 Series Shock Absorbers. Similar to the Bilstein 5100 Series shock kit, the 4600 series variation does not require any modifications and can easily be installed by anyone.

It flaunts a mono-tube design and boasts a gas pressure technology which might help you attain enhanced control and stability as well as accurate handling and great comfort. Addedly, the Bilstein 4600 series shock kit is also dandified with front and rear shocks.

While the installation is relatively standard, it is imperative to take note that these shocks can be tough to compress. It is best to use a floor jack to make sure that each shock is placed in the right position.

Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers For Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500 4WD 1999-06 - Includes Front Shocks # 24-065009 & Rear Shocks # 24-029056

• Includes front and rear 4600 Series Bilstein Shock Absorbers
• Fits stock height 1999-06 Silverado & Sierra 1500 4WD.(Excludes electronic suspension)
• Monotube gas pressure technology provides improved control and stability, precise handling, ultimate performance, and incredible comfort.
• Easy to install; direct bolt-on; no modification required.
• Lifetime Warranty

$250.91

It is fairly cheaper compared to the Bilstein 5100 series and is also equipped with a lifetime warranty.

FAQ/Best Shocks Buyer’s Guide

Contents:

In most cases, a gas-operated shock ingests the kinetic energy into the oil employed in the shock which in turn is transformed to heat. Subsequently, the heat consumed from the shock to avert the oil from forming foam.

Pneumatic shocks, on the other hand, consume the energy that is transmitted to them via the air of the shock. Generally, the transmission process is most often completed with the usage of a piston that expands into the domiciles of the shock.

There are, however, several instances that extra shock absorbing attributes are distributed by the usage of springs that are a component of the entire body of the shock. Even though springs don’t have the capability to expend energy, their ability to assists in the process of dampening makes them a valuable asset in the whole procedure.

Along with shock absorbers, torsion bars on the rear axle aids are giving drivers a superior control when traveling, therefore, making the entire vehicle ride as flat as a pancake.

Different Types of Shock Absorbers

The mono-tube design is ordinarily made up of a solitary tube which is embedded in an upside down state to deprecate the overall weight of the vehicle. On the other hand, the twin-tube variation is the complete opposite of the mono-tube shock absorber.

It is comprised of an inner and outer tube which works as a team to accomplish their specific intent. Although there are a wide range of shock absorber designs available, experts normally classify shocks into three specific categories particularly the spring seat absorbers, modern telescopic absorbers and strut-type shock absorbers.

∙ Telescopic Shock Absorbers

Most of the time, telescopic shock absorbers are utilized in the front as well as the rear suspensions of vehicles. It is further classified into two particular classifications specifically the mono-tube dampers or high-pressure gas shocks and the twin-tube or bi-tube dampers which are available in multiple configurations.

A few advantages of using telescopic shock absorbers include noise-free operation, less maintenance, low manufacturing costs and high operating speed. In addition, these shocks are also available in a variety of sizes according to the requirement of the vehicle.

∙ Strut Type Shock Absorbers

In addition, the strut housing is also geared with a damping unit which has the purpose of primarily controlling the movement of the suspension and the spring.

The total functionality of a strut-type shock absorber is predominantly dictated by its mount. Its mount structure is technically drilled into the absorber which enables the strut angle to go behind the lower ball joint. Adjacently, the mount will carry the load and will transmit it to the strut housing and the spring.

Unlike telescopic shocks, strut type shock absorbers are commonly used in the front of the suspension. It is also generalized into two major classes particularly the repairable and sealed variations.

∙ Spring Seat Shock Absorbers

Spring seat shock absorbers are often considered as the most versatile shock absorbers as it offers qualities of both the telescopic and strut type shocks. A spring seat shock is consists of damping and suspension parts which are built in a single unit similar to strut type shock absorbers. It is, however, imperative to note that they are not made for elevated loads as opposed to strut-type shocks.

Instead, a spring seat shock absorber is built by using parts that are identical to telescopic shocks. Nevertheless, spring seat shocks are sealed and need complete replacement than telescopic shocks when damaged.

Signs When to Change Your Shock Absorbers

Knowing when to change the shock absorbers of your vehicle is essential in keeping them in proper working order and reducing the maintenance expenses. Shock absorbers that operate faultily or require a renewal can be commensurate to an unpleasant journey or shrinkage in vehicle control that could result in permanent impairment. Here are some symptoms which could indicate that you need to replace your shock absorbers.

∙ Continuous Rocking And Rattling

This is one of the clearest and most obvious signs that you need a shock replacement. Other than the fact that it ruins your road experience, the constant rattling and rocking of your suspension can put excessive pressure on other components of your vehicle.

∙ Vibrations

Do you experience vibrations while holding the steering wheel? If you answered yes, then it might be time to thoroughly examine your tires. Vibrations are ordinarily caused by old shock absorbers and could be lethal most especially if you are driving on accelerated speeds. Technically, driving on high speeds will likely reduce your overall control of the vehicle, therefore, increasing the chances of accidents.

∙ Fluid Leaking

Leaking is also one of the signs that could result in a damaged shock absorber. Notably, the loss of fluid will give rise in the inability of your shocks to function properly since there will be little fluid in the chamber to synergize with.

∙ Intermittent Braking

If your brake takes more time to stop the car, it is essential to scrutinize your shocks since it could mean that you need it to be replaced. More often than not, vehicles that have grizzled shock absorbers normally take more distance to stop which is treacherous at high velocity.

∙ Irregular Tire Wear

Uneven wear or bald patches on your tires simply indicate a worn out or faulty shock. In general, tires which do not have gilt-edge contact over the surface of the ground can potentially harm your shock absorbers. Ideally, it is advisable to have your shocks examined and replaced to avoid losing complete control and grip on your car and tires.

∙ Nose Dives And Swerving

If you car dips whenever you are using the brakes, it is suggested to have your shock absorbers be evaluated. This is relatively common in old or used shock absorbers as they tend to lose their inflexibility and firmness which could result in haphazard vehicle function whenever you use the brakes. It is expedient to replace the shocks since this glitch can significantly lessen your control over the vehicle which is deadly during bad weather conditions.

∙ Veering And Sliding

The constant sliding of a vehicle during windy conditions is among the hallmarks of a wearied shock absorber. It is most adequate to replace the shocks whenever you experience this to avoid losing control of your vehicle and more importantly prevent accidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What mileage should shocks are replace?

According to automobile experts, it is most recommended to replace the shocks of your vehicle every 12,000 miles. It is, however, essential to remember that it can differ depending upon the maintenance of the suspension of your vehicle.

Will better shocks improve ride quality?

The short answer is, yes. Better shocks are likely to enhance the quality of your ride since it gives you the means to control the vehicle and minimize the movement of your suspension. Interestingly enough, better shocks also have a candid upshot on the braking and the handling of your vehicle.

What are the signs of bad shocks?

The most common symptoms of bad shocks include badly cupped tires, rocking and rattling, irregular vibrations, fluid leaking and a bouncy ride.

How long does it take to replace shocks?

There are numerous factors that contribute as to how long it takes to replace shock absorbers. Normally, changing a single set of shocks can take from two to three hours depending on the damage in the suspension. It is, however, worth noting that changing one shock or spring absorber could take lesser time. Before leaving your vehicle in the shop, it is always best to ask your mechanic for an estimated timetable as to when you can get up and running again.

How do you know when you need new shocks?

It is time for your shocks to be replaced when your vehicle bounces in irregular fashion and exhibit signs of body roll. Other than that, unusual noises and car sliding as well as front-end diving and rear squatting are also signs that you need new shocks.

Can bad shocks ruin tires?

Yes. Along with struts, shock absorbers are responsible for providing a sufficient damping strength to efficiently control the movement of the tire. An excessive movement of tires could create a cupping wear configuration which is detrimental to the tire.

Does my car have struts or shocks?

Every wheel of your car is made up of either a strut or a shock but never both. However, a car may have shocks in the front and struts in the rear.

How often should I replace shocks and struts?

Generally, a shock absorber should be replaced every 12,000 miles while struts are recommended to be changed every 50,000 miles.

Should I replace front and rear shocks at the same time?

While it is not required, experts recommend everyone to replace the front and rear shocks at the same time. This is primarily because of the potentiality of a new shock absorber to endure bumps in the road better than the old shock.

Are shocks and struts the same thing?

While both the shock and the strut damp the movement of the spring and stop erratic bouncing and swaying, they are entirely different from each other. In other words, a strut cannot be utilized to supersede shock absorbers or vice versa.

Conclusion

In looking for shock absorbers, it is always ideal to know the Original Equipment Number (OEM) of your vehicle before purchasing a replacement. You just need to enter the make, model and year of your vehicle onto the database of your dealership service department to find your OEM number. Also, do not forget to consider your budget prior to buying a new shock absorber for your vehicle to get the best value possible.