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. On the other side of the spectrum there are softer OE-like options for the daily drive, but we're guessing if you're here and shopping for your 2003-2009 4Runner - you're looking for improved handling with extra loads, more comfort on the trail, or better stability in the dirt.
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OEM Shock Information
Pay attention to the XREAS and Non-XREAS parts distinction. Removal of the XREAS system is fairly simple and our team can walk you through it if you want to replace with standard shocks or aftermarket options.
| Part # | Drive Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Front Shocks (2003–2009) | ||
| 48510-69675 | 2WD/4WD | Standard, without height control, without sport suspension. Replaces 48510-80086, 48510-80087. |
| 48510-80229 / 48520-39875 | 4WD | X-REAS (Active Suspension), 215 chassis. |
| 48510-80230 / 48520-39885 | 4WD | X-REAS (Active Suspension), 210 chassis. |
| Rear Shocks (2003–2009) | ||
| 48530-80371 | 2WD | Standard, without X-REAS, without sport suspension. Replaces 48530-80087. |
| 48530-80372 | 4WD | Standard, without X-REAS. Replaces 48530-80088. |
| 48530-80089 / 48540-39445 | 4WD | X-REAS (Active Suspension). |
| 48530-80090 / 48540-39455 | 4WD | X-REAS + Air Suspension, Limited only. |
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
The Bilstein 4600 for the 03-09 4Runner will be a step up in damping compared to the factory twin tube shocks that come standard. If you want more control over the daily drive and like the confidence that more feedback provides, the Bilstein 4600 is a good choice. If you prefer a softer more compliant feel, there are better options.
Price
2 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Excellent factory upgrade for improved handling
- Long lasting, very durable
- Reduces nose dive and body roll
- Capable for heavy duty use, easy 4x4 trails
Cons
- Firmer than stock-like shocks
- Higher tier shock, higher price
- Yellow isn't everyone's favorite color
Eibach Pro-Truck Sport Strut & Shocks Set for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner w/0-2.5" lift
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Overview
Compared to the Bilstein's above, the Eibach Pro Truck Sport Shocks deliver a more compliant every day ride for your 4Runner. While a tad softer overall, these shocks still deliver improved handling when compared to stock twin tube dampers. Bonus points for being able to level out the front of your 03-09 4Runner by raising the front end by 2.5 inches.
Price
2 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Well balanced between comfort and improved handling over stock shocks.
- Reduced sway and rear end axle hop over small and big bumps
- Extreme durability and longevity through German design and US Manufacturing
Cons
- Limited heat capacity for sustained offroad use
- Some drivers report low-speed impacts and bumps can feel sharper than expected (not Shock Surplus' experience)
Rancho RS5000X Gas Strut & Shocks Set for 2003-2022 Toyota 4Runner
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Overview
The Rancho RS5000X are a twin tube gas economic-performance shock, a bit more robust than the factory shocks, but not valved as firm as some of the monotube options. These shocks aim to give good daily driven comfort, while having the capability to handle moderate trails while keeping the 4Runner composed over the rocky chatter.
Price
2 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Thick body, large oil volume, contributes to performance longevity
- Reliable twin tube technology
- Great price for a 2" gas shock
- 90 Day Ride Guarantee by Rancho
Cons
- Ride quality leaves something to be desired
- Mass produced, shows in the details
Hauling / Towing Shock Recommendations
The following shocks give you the on-road stability and control necessary for hauling and towing loads
Bilstein 5100 Shocks Set for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD w/0-2.5" lift
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Overview
The Bilstein 5100 is the heavier duty upgrade to the 4600, and well suited for 4Runner drivers that want some added ride height to the front of the truck. These shocks are our go-to recommendation for a 4Runner that sees heavier loads, tows a trailer, or wants the most control when driving around town or on the trail.
Price
2 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Leveling-Kit ability for certain apps
- Great off-road capable shock upgrade
- Durable, long lasting
- Improved handling on & off-road
- Heavy Duty, Tow, Haul capable
Cons
- Firmer than stock-like shocks
- Performance Shock, higher price
Rancho Quicklift Leveling Strut + RS9000XL Adjustable Shocks Set for 2003-2022 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD w/2" lift
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Overview
Rancho's Quicklift & RS9000XL adjustable shock set packs a lot into a single package. You get a 2" leveling kit out of the box, new springs, and 9-way adjustable shocks on all 4 corners. If you're one that wants to maintain a softer every day drive, while being able to adapt to weekend conditions with loaded 4Runner or more control on the trail, these are a solid pick.
Price
2 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Install ready out of the box
- Optimal method to level your vehicle
- Ride Comfort adjustability
Cons
- Firmer ride over factory shocks and springs
- Adjustment settings are imperceptible for some drivers
Off-Road Shock Recommendations
The following shocks have the durability and longevity you need for tough terrain
Overview
Bilstein's 6112 shocks and springs for the 03-09 4Runner are big step up from the factory setup, and are geared towards an offroad focused driver. These are a
Price
dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Fox 2.0 Performance Series Coilovers & Shocks Set for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD 2-3" Rear
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Overview
The Fox 2.0 IFP high performance shocks are for a go-fast attitude offroad, providing significant handling improvement on & off-road over typical street-shocks. These shocks excel in aggressive terrain and the dirt, and are a great performance upgrade over factory or Bilstein.
Price
3 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Coilovers provide Leveling-kit ability
- Excellent High Performance entry level shock
- Handles hard hits well
- Improves handling and traction in all terrains
- Rebuildable / Serviceable
Cons
- Higher price point compared to similar offerings
- Requires servicing for optimal performance
- Firmer than factory and other factory-like upgrades
Icon 0-3.5" Suspension System Stage 1 Kit for 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD
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Overview
Step into improved handling and comfort for your daily drive and dirt activities. Through ICON’s digressive valving, this leads to improved handling without sacrificing too much ride comfort in the pursuit of spirited driving and high performance.
Price
4 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
Pros
- Improved handling on and off-road
- Built for moderate to high speed
- Rebuildable and serviceable
- Can upgrade through higher stages
Cons
- Requires servicing for optimum performance
- Off-road focused, may be too firm for daily-driver only
Fox 2.5 Factory Series Coilovers & Shocks w/ DSC Reservoirs Set for 2003-2022 Toyota 4Runner 4WD RWD
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Overview
Stepping up to the Fox 2.5 Factory Race series shocks brings significant improvements in both comfort and ride control. The increased size of the 2.5" shock offers increased shock oil, lower operating pressures, and allows high speed driving on aggressive terrain while maintaining great control of the vehicle through race-level tuning.
Price
4 dollar signs out of 4
$$$$
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
