Car & Truck Shocks, Struts & Assemblies

Discover Shocks, Struts, and Assemblies

Keep your driving experience as smooth as possible with well-maintained suspension system parts. Whether you want to upgrade your vehicle's suspension system or swap out a damaged strut, you'll find the high-quality shocks, struts, and assemblies you need on eBay.

shocks, struts and assembleys
shocks, struts and assembleys

Shocks vs. struts

Many drivers do not understand the difference between shocks and struts. While both parts manage the smoothness of your ride, there is a difference between car shocks and struts. Shocks are standalone components that control the movement of a vehicle'ssuspension & springs, thus absorbing vibrations when driving over bumps. Struts work with the shocks by supporting the vehicle's weight & providing a mounting place for the coil springs. Shocks are typically found in the rear, while car struts are usually in the front. However, some trucks and SUVs have front shocks and rear shocks because their suspensions are designed for durability. Similarly, some vehicles have front struts & rear struts for performance and design requirements.

Types of shocks and struts

Shocks and struts come in various types, each with distinct features and applications. When choosing the right product for your vehicle, consider your driving needs. Is your car just for daily commutes and highway driving? Or do you use your vehicle for high-performance driving or towing?

Type

  • Standard Twin-Tube shocks
  • Gas-charged shocks
  • Coilover shocks
  • Heavy-duty shocks
  • Monotube shocks
Typical Use
  • Everyday driving
  • Highway and city driving
  • Sports and performance vehicles
  • Towing and commercial vehicles
  • Off-road and performance vehicles
Features
  • Basic shock absorption, affordable
  • Enhanced control, reduces aeration
  • Customizable settings, improved control
  • Increased durability, handles heavy loads
  • Improved handling, better response

Type

  • MacPherson struts
  • Twin-tube struts
  • Gas-charged struts
  • Adjustable struts
  • Coilover struts
Typical Use
  • Modern cars, everyday driving
  • Cost-effective, everyday driving
  • Highway and city driving, light towing
  • Off-road and varied driving conditions
  • Sport and performance vehicles
Features
  • Compact design and structural support
  • Basic damping, integrated coil spring
  • Improved damping, reduced foaming, gas pressurization
  • Customizable damping settings, adaptable to driving needs
  • High performance, adjustable ride height

Brands and types to consider

For dependability and longevity, it's important to search for reputable brands that use durable materials. Struts from top brands include Detroit Axle, Bilstein, KYB and Monroe. KYB is known for long-term reliability while Monroe struts offer advanced technology, but all three feature quality construction. Major brands of shocks include Monroe, KYB, Detroit Axle, Unity Automotive, and Bilstein. Each offers a range of products tailored to different needs. For instance, Monroe's gas-charged shocks are suited for daily driving, while Bilstein's performance shocks cater to racing enthusiasts.

FAQ

Explore answers on common questions regarding our shocks, struts, and assemblies. Learn more about product features, installation guidance, and maintenance tips.

As essential components of a vehicle's suspension system, shocks and struts impact everything from ride comfort to vehicle control to tire performance. Each wheel has a shock or strut that stops you from feeling every bump in the road. When a wheel hits a bump, it wants to keep bouncing. Without shocks or struts, this would make your ride very uncomfortable. Shocks and struts allow the springs to compress easily but slow them down as they return to their normal position, like a storm door that opens quickly but closes gently.

Consider replacing your shocks and struts if you notice any of these performance issues:

  • Ride feels progressively bumpier and rougher
  • Tires are wearing down unevenly
  • Vehicle sways or handles poorly, especially on turns
  • Vehicle dips or "nose dives" when braking
  • Visible damage or leaks coming from shocks or struts

Aside from the uncomfortable ride, neglecting your shocks and struts can lead to damage to other vehicle components. The vibrations from undamped bumps will cause additional wear and tear to your brakes, tires, chassis, and more. This means more repairs and safety issues.

While replacing shock absorbers is a beginner-level project, updating your car shock and strut assembly is a bit more challenging. Strut replacement requires specialized tools and handling additional suspension parts. If you are not an experienced mechanic, it's recommended that you take your shock and strut assembly to a professional garage for installation.

Read more about Shocks and Struts

Learn more about maintaining your shocks and struts with our helpful guides, like replacing shock absorbers and explore additional articles on our DIY hub to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Read more