Bilstein 4600 Monotube OEM Shocks Set for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD
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Choosing Shocks for your Toyota 4Runner
There's a substantial amount of options out there for the 4th Gen 4Runner. Many of these shock choices carry across categories, and do most things well. When you start getting into the off-road performance category, the options start to distinguish themselves with features and specific use type, designed for high speed or slow trails.
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Introducing
4Runner Buyer's Guide Video
We break down the pros and cons of the most popular Toyota 4Runner suspension upgrades.
Daily Driver Shock Recommendations
The following shocks give comfort and control on road for your every day driving needs
Overview
One of the aftermarket ride control standards in shock absorbers, Bilstein has designed these shocks to improve handling and ride control, while maintaining relative comfort compared to a softer factory-like shock. Exceptionally long life and dependability, the Bilstein 4600 is not only great for the daily driver, but also capable of towing, hauling loads, and easy offroad trails.
Price
2 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Excellent factory upgrade for improved handling
- Long lasting, very durable
- Reduces nose dive and body roll
- Capable for heavy duty use, easy 4x4 trails
Cons
- Firmer than stock-like shocks
- Higher tier shock, higher price
- Yellow isn't everyone's favorite color
Eibach Pro-Truck Sport Strut & Shocks Set for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner w/0-2.5" lift
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Overview
Eibach's Pro Truck shocks deliver excellent balance between comfort and improved handling over stock shocks. German design meets USA manufacturing gives these shocks extremely long life.
Price
2 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Well balanced between comfort and improved handling over stock shocks.
- Reduced sway and rear end axle hop over small and big bumps
- Extreme durability and longevity through German design and US Manufacturing
Cons
- Limited heat capacity for sustained offroad use
- Some drivers report low-speed impacts and bumps can feel sharper than expected (not Shock Surplus' experience)
Hauling / Towing Shock Recommendations
The following shocks give you the on-road stability and control necessary for hauling and towing loads
Bilstein 5100 Shocks Set for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD w/0-2.5" lift
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Overview
One of the best selling shocks for the Truck, SUV, and Jeep market, the Bilstein 5100 excels at daily drivability mixed with off-road capability. Slightly firmer than the 4600 series, and firmer than a stock-like shock, these high-pressure gas shocks offer improved handling on lifted vehicles and improved response with larger wheels & tires.
Price
2 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Leveling-Kit ability for certain apps
- Great off-road capable shock upgrade
- Durable, long lasting
- Improved handling on & off-road
- Heavy Duty, Tow, Haul capable
Cons
- Firmer than stock-like shocks
- Performance Shock, higher price
Rancho Quicklift Leveling Strut + RS9000XL Adjustable Shocks Set for 2003-2022 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD w/2" lift
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Overview
The Rancho Quicklift achieves a front suspension refreshment along with a leveling kit, creating a single assembled unit with new shocks, springs, and top hats. To top it off, the front shocks are adjustable just like the RS9000XL, allowing firm or soft compression response.
Price
2 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Install ready out of the box
- Optimal method to level your vehicle
- Ride Comfort adjustability
Cons
- Firmer ride over factory shocks and springs
- Adjustment settings are imperceptible for some drivers
Recap of the Hauling / Towing Shocks
Off-Road Shock Recommendations
The following shocks have the durability and longevity you need for tough terrain
6112 Assembled Set includes 5100/5160 Shocks for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner
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Overview
A new addition to Bilstein's arsenal, the 6112 shock is equipped with a massive 60mm active piston and 2.6" shock body, providing exceptional off-road capability and handling. This shock is aimed solely at the adventurer, offroader, and overlander that sees a lot of dirt, but also doesn't want to sacrifice daily driver comfort.
Price
3 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Leveling Height Adjustments
- 60mm piston, "best in class"
- Price-to-Shock ratio through the roof, 2.6" shock & spring less expensive than 2" coilovers
- Massive off-road ride upgrade, improved road handling and comfort
- Long lasting, durable, serviceable
Cons
- Does not come pre-assembled from Bilstein
- Requires coil-spring compressor for installation
Fox 2.0 Performance Series Coilovers & Shocks Set for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD 2-3" Rear
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Overview
The Fox 2.0 IFP high performance shocks are for a go-fast attitude offroad, providing significant handling improvement on & off-road over typical street-shocks. These shocks excel in aggressive terrain and the dirt, and are a great performance upgrade over factory or Bilstein.
Price
3 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Coilovers provide Leveling-kit ability
- Excellent High Performance entry level shock
- Handles hard hits well
- Improves handling and traction in all terrains
- Rebuildable / Serviceable
Cons
- Higher price point compared to similar offerings
- Requires servicing for optimal performance
- Firmer than factory and other factory-like upgrades
Icon 0-3.5" Suspension System Stage 1 Kit for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD
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Overview
Step into improved handling and comfort for your daily drive and dirt activities. Through ICON’s digressive valving, this leads to improved handling without sacrificing too much ride comfort in the pursuit of spirited driving and high performance.
Price
4 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Improved handling on and off-road
- Built for moderate to high speed
- Rebuildable and serviceable
- Can upgrade through higher stages
Cons
- Requires servicing for optimum performance
- Off-road focused, may be too firm for daily-driver only
Fox 2.5 Factory Series Coilovers & Shocks w/ DSC Reservoirs Set for 2003-2022 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD
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Overview
Stepping up to the Fox 2.5 Factory Race series shocks brings significant improvements in both comfort and ride control. The increased size of the 2.5" shock offers increased shock oil, lower operating pressures, and allows high speed driving on aggressive terrain while maintaining great control of the vehicle through race-level tuning.
Price
4 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Huge improvement to road comfort and off-road handling in one package
- Adjustable & Reservoir options
- Serviceable, Rebuildable, Custom Tuning Available
- Excellent handling in high speed environments
Cons
- Requires servicing between 30-50k miles for optimum performance
Recap of the Off-Road Shocks
