Choosing Shocks for your 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma

The 2016-2023 Tacoma saw minor changes to the suspension compared to the 2005-2015 models, equating to the ride height being 1-inch taller than the previous generation. So while many shock packages fit the 2005-2023 year range, certain coilover ride height gains will differ between generations. We've ran many different brands at all levels through our own builds, which stretch from being the daily driver to the adventure tourer, seeing every kind of terrain possible. Here we will explore the different options available, what they mean for ride characteristics on your Tacoma, and hopefully guide you into something that makes sense for your truck.
contact us Share your thoughts

Introducing

Tacoma Buyer's Guide Video

We break down the pros and cons of the most popular Toyota Tacoma suspension upgrades.

Daily Driver Shock Recommendations
The following shocks give comfort and control on road for your every day driving needs
Bilstein 4600 Monotube OEM Shocks Set for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma 4WD RWD 6 Lug
Buy Now
Overview
The Bilstein 4600 series shock is the beefier version of the yellow twin-tube Bilstein shocks that come standard on the TRD Tacoma models. The step up in damping from twin-tube to monotube design produces more support, better handling, and better composure when the terrain gets chunkier. If you're looking for a stock-upgrade on your 2016-2023 Tacoma, this is one of our most recommended 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
Rancho RS5000X Gas Strut & Shocks Set for 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma 4WD RWD w/0" lift
Buy Now
Overview
The RS5000X is an economical-performance upgrade over the factory 16-23 Tacoma shocks. While still a twin-tube gas charged design, these shocks have a thicker bore to hold more oil, which battles heat build up when you're taking the Tacoma offroad.
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
Overview
Monroe's OESpectrum shocks for the Toyota Tacoma are the closest thing you'll get to how the truck drove off the lot. Built with the same standards and valving as the original 16-23 Tacoma shocks, the Monroe OESpectrum option are nothing fancy, but will get the job done.
Price

2 dollar signs out of 4

$$$$
Pros
  • Direct replacement for worn out factory shocks
  • Restores off-the-lot comfort and handling
  • Budget friendly for drivers in a pinch
Cons
  • Do not have any expectations of improved performance
  • Not the best option for carrying extra loads
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 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma
Buy Now
Overview
You're looking at one of the most popular shock options on the 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma. Serving as both a leveling kit to lift the truck 2" using factory springs, as well as a big upgrade in the handling and performance department. These shocks increase handling feel on-road, along with more confidence when towing or hauling heavier loads; camping adventures, overlanding, or a full family.
Price

2 dollar signs out of 4

$$$$
Pros
  • +2in Leveling-Kit ability for the 2016-2023 Tacoma using factory springs
  • Heavy duty upgrade for increased loads from towing or extra gear
  • One of the longest lasting shock on the market
Cons
  • Firmer than stock-like shocks
  • Performance Shock, higher price
Rancho RS9000XL Adjustable Shocks Set for 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma
Buy Now
Overview
If you're seeking adjustability for your 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma, the RS9000XL is suited to those needs. Fine tuning the ride quality between a soft daily commute to a more responsive weekend adventure is where these shocks provide real value. The thick bore of this shock contains the most oil out of any twin/tri-tube shock option on the market, helping the shocks keep up when the heat starts to rise.
Price

2 dollar signs out of 4

$$$$
Pros
  • Control for soft or firm compression damping
  • Thick bodied, large oil volume
  • Excellent adjustable shock for the price
  • 90-day Ride Guarantee by Rancho
Cons
  • Knobs prone to breakage, we replace them for free
  • Adjustment settings are imperceptible for some drivers
Teraflex Falcon Sport 2.25" Kit for 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma 4WD
Buy Now
Overview
Price

2 dollar signs out of 4

$$$$
Off-Road Shock Recommendations
The following shocks have the durability and longevity you need for tough terrain
Fox 2.0 Series Shock Set - 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma
Buy Now
Overview
The Fox 2.0 shock was one of the first performance-oriented packages we tested on our own Tacoma, a night and day difference from the Bilstein 5100 that came off. We immediately noticed an overall softer response, and a lot more fun in the dirt.
Price

3 dollar signs out of 4

$$$$
Pros
  • 0-2in of front ride height adjustment (leveling kit)
  • Excellent High Performance entry level shock
  • 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
Bilstein 6112 Assembled & 5100/5160 Shocks Set for 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma
Buy Now
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
Old Man Emu BP-51 Bypass Coilovers + Rear Internal Bypass Shocks Set for 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma w/0-3" lift
Buy Now
Overview
The rebound and compression adjustment is already class-leading features for OE fitted shocks. Add in the internal bypass ports of these shocks and coilovers, and you can see why these are some of our new favorite shocks. The BP51 achieves the ultimate in both comfort and offroad control through the massive amount of ride control tuning.
Price

4 dollar signs out of 4

$$$$
Pros
  • Compression adjustment to handle varying vehicle loads or tough terrain
  • Rebound adjustment to pair against compression for comfort control
  • Internal Bypass addresses comfort in every-day driving conditions
Cons
  • Compression/Rebound Adjustment is slightly tougher to change than competitors
Fox 2.5 Performance Elite Shock Set - 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma
Buy Now
Overview
Fox's 2.5in Performance Elite shocks are more than a jack-of-all trades, these shocks deliver a true premium-shock experience. If you want your Toyota Tacoma to be extremely composed on-road, while being able to handle your dirt-trail aggression, the dual speed adjuster is able to contribute in all scenarios.
Price

4 dollar signs out of 4

$$$$
Pros
  • +1-2in Front Ride Height adjustability
  • Huge improvement to road comfort and off-road handling in one package
  • Adjustability to fine tune everyday road feel, or adapting to aggressive and chunky terrain
  • Serviceable, Rebuildable, Custom Tuning Available
Cons
  • Requires servicing between 30-50k miles for optimum performance
King Shocks 2.5 Shocks Set for 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma 6 Lug 4WD
Buy Now
Overview
King Shocks for the 05-23 Tacoma platform are one of the best options for drivers who expect the price point to match the road feel right out of the box. Not necessarily pillowy, but definitely confidence-inspiring, with overall handling improvement and predictability. Offroad is where these shocks really shine, they're asking you to push harder as big bumps is where King Shocks show their strength.
Price

4 dollar signs out of 4

$$$$
Pros
  • One of the highest performing shocks available for OE apps
  • Serviceable, Rebuildable, Custom Tuning Available
  • Compression adjustment and reservoir options
  • Badass Blue color
Cons
  • Lacking on features from competitors
  • Requires servicing between 30-50k miles for optimum performance
Bilstein 8112 ZoneControl Coilovers & Rear 8100 Shocks for 2005-2023 Toyota Tacoma (0.4-2.2" lift)
Buy Now
Overview
The Bilstein 8112/8100 is the pinnacle of shocks that we've installed on our own Tacoma. If you simply want the best and most advanced shock for your 2005-2023 Tacoma, there's no better option for most drivers. Mixing daily driven comfort, with high speed performance, and optional 3-way adjustability makes these shocks the superior choice.
Price

4 dollar signs out of 4

$$$$
Pros
  • Height adjustable up to 2-2.5in
  • 3 Way Adjustability available
  • Perfect blend of on-road comfort and off-road performance
  • Extreme durability designed to last 100k miles
Cons
  • Not the best option if you're looking for maximum lift height
  • Conservative wheel travel compared to competitors
Special Notes
We've tested these shocks ourselves extensively, Check out the review here