Choosing Shocks for your 2021+ Ford F-150
This guide and its recommendations are informed by testing and reviews on our own 2024 Ford F150. Whether you're considering a basic factory upgrade like Bilstein, higher performance in Fox, or other options like Eibach and Icon - we bring you the details that matter. Shock Surplus addresses different budgets, different vehicle uses & needs (plush daily comfort, more handling, off-road, etc), and identifying exactly what these shocks mean for your 2015-2026 Ford F150.
OEM Shock Replacements
The shocks here are the factory replacement shocks for the 2021-2026 Ford F150 across 2WD and 4WD models. The shocks in the recommendations below are direct replacements that require no modification. If you have electronic suspension, this guide does not include recommendations on those models.
| Part # | Drive Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Front Shocks (2021–2026) | ||
| EL3Z-18124-A | 2WD | Heavy Duty Dual Shock Absorbers, RWD, 126″/145″/157″ wheelbase. Interchangeable with ASH-24560. |
| ML3Z-18124-R | 4WD | Standard, current. Fits King Ranch, Lariat, Platinum, SSV, STX, Tremor, XL, XLT. |
| ML3Z-18124-Q | 4WD | 2021–2023-specific front shock, earlier running-change variant. |
| Rear Shocks (2021–2026) | ||
| ML3Z-18125-AK | 2WD | Medium Payload Package, standard shock, without off-road shocks, 141″/145″/163″ wheelbase. |
| ML3Z-18125-AA | 4WD | Standard shock, 145″ wheelbase, Base Payload, Heavy Duty shocks, STX. |
| ML3Z-18125-AT | 4WD | Premium Off-Road shock, 145″ wheelbase, Base Payload, XL/XLT. |
Recent Review
Bilstein vs Eibach
On site with the team feeling out Bilstein and Eibach on two F150s.
2 dollar signs out of 4
- Excellent factory upgrade for improved handling
- Long lasting, very durable
- Reduces nose dive and body roll
- Capable for heavy duty use, easy 4x4 trails
- Firmer than stock-like shocks
- Higher tier shock, higher price
- Yellow isn't everyone's favorite color
2 dollar signs out of 4
- 0-2.5in of height adjustability using factory springs
- More forgiving over small bumps when compared to Bilstein
- Exceptional durability, designed for 100k miles
- Requires coil spring compressor for installation
2 dollar signs out of 4
- Multiple lengths available for different ride heights, leveling kits, or full lift systems.
- Sporty and top-tier handling feel for the daily drive
- Durable, long lasting, designed for 100k+ miles on your vehicle
- Well suited to handle heavier loads and towing trailers
- Firmer than stock-like shocks
- Performance Shock, higher price
4 dollar signs out of 4
- 0-2.75" Front Height adjustment
- Adjustable while on the truck
- Very tight and controlled ride behavior onroad, while softening up offroad at speeds
- Serviceable and rebuildable for long life
- May be firmer than people expect at this price point
- Does require servicing for long term ownership, approximately every 50k miles
4 dollar signs out of 4
- One of the highest offroad-performance shocks for the F150 that doesn't sacrifice road comfort
- Exceptional durability, requiring less frequent maintenance when compared to typical race-shock options
- Optional adjustable packages for fine tuning for varying vehicle loads like towing, construction, overlanding
- Through our tests at Shock Surplus we haven't found anything to complain about
See our install and review of this kit on our own 2024 Ford F150
3 dollar signs out of 4
- Ride height adjustment on the front coilovers to level or lift the front of your vehicle.
- Spanner wrench included for adjustment
- Rear ride quality improves in comfort and performance in offroad environments
- Front coilovers seem to run out of capability when compared to the rear reservoir shocks
3 dollar signs out of 4
- Front Height Adjustment from factory height to +2.5 inches
- Price-to-Shock ratio is best in class, 2.6 inch shock and spring is less expensive than 2 inch coilovers
- Huge off-road ride upgrade, improved handling and comfort on-road
- Does not come pre-assembled from Bilstein
- Requires a coil spring compressor or mechanic for installation
3 dollar signs out of 4
- Height adjustable from factory height up to +2in
- Reduces harshness over rough pavement or terrain
- Improves control and stability for the daily drive
- Premium price point compared to similar 2-inch shock offerings
- Requires servicing for optimal performance at approximately 50k miles
- Warranty requests and service goes through Fox directly
3 dollar signs out of 4
- Dual Speed Adjustable (daily drive behaviors, offroad control)
- Aimed towards offroad performance and control, overkill for a pavement princess
- Aluminum body for corrosion resistance and heat dissipation (stays cooler longer)
- Rebuildable and serviceable for extreme life
- Overkill for drivers who only offroad occassiionally
- Rides firmer than many drivers expect, not pillowy
4 dollar signs out of 4
- 0-2.5in Front Height Adjustment
- Adjustabile while on the truck
- Serviceable and Rebuildable for longevity
- Subdues offroad chatter, optimized for aggressive terrain
- Lacking on features from competitors
- Requires servicing between 30-50k miles for optimum performance