The Ford F150 is not only a great passenger vehicle, but it also has a solid reputation when it comes to cargo loading and towing. We load them up with all sorts of heavy items. Other times, it’s the perfect vehicle to pull boats and trailers.
Some simply want better ride control performance than what came with the truck originally. You can get the performance you want by replacing the stock with the best shocks for F150.
But there are just too many choices available out there, and it’s easy to be confused if you don’t know what to look for. Don’t worry though. We’ve looked at the various products available to narrow down your search.
We have seven top recommendations for demanding conditions, driving needs, and preferences.
Let’s get started.
Top Pick
Bilstein B8 5100 Rear Shocks are the most-liked and the bestseller, thanks to their monotube design that provides consistent, fade-free performance. They come equipped with OEM-certified mounting hardware for exceptionally easy and quick installation on your f150. Loaded or unloaded, on or off-road, these shocks will deliver a controlled and comfortable ride.
The Best Shocks for F150 Are:
1. Bilstein B8 5100 Rear Shocks — Best Overall
Bilstein has always been a trusted choice for shock absorbers and they really did it right with their B8 5100. This particular model is specifically engineered for 15 to 18 Ford F150. So, you are getting the best valving and the best drive possible.
These shocks are zinc-plated for superior corrosion resistance and durability. These dampers have a monotube design, which is great because it ensures the working chamber is constantly filled with pressurized oil, avoiding foaming or aeration problems.
The high-pressure gas charge of this model also increases the reaction rate of the shock absorber, and thereby, the truck grip and control.
This model will arrive quickly and well-packed. It is also quick to install. It should take you roughly half an hour to complete the installation after going through the video tutorial.
Key Features
- Monotube design
- Gas pressure technology
- OE quality
- Zinc coating
- Road-tested
- Lifting and fits lift kits
Pros
- Monotube design improves strength and dampening
- They increase the reaction rate of your vehicle
- Maintain a comfortable, stable, and controlled ride
- Zinc coating improves corrosion resistance
- Larger diameter body resists heat on longer drives
Cons
- It is possible to receive a model that is firmer than the stock
- The increasing grip may make the ride bumpier
Verdict
These shocks are a life-changing upgrade for F150. Just make sure you receive a model that is softer than the stock. Not to mention that the increased grip provides superior performance for lifted vehicles.
Overall Rating: 4.9
2. Bilstein 33-186009 5100 Series Shock — Best for Preventing Shock Fading
Are you looking for extreme versatility on and off-road when driving your F150? Just add Bilstein 33-186009.
Like most models in the 5100 series, the 33-186009 features a heavy-duty monotube design that allows for easy lower mounting. The fluid and the gas are kept separate, so there is less chance of cavitation. The monotube design that comes with this model is more of a high-pressure dampening system. This means you are going to get a little more of a firmer ride. The valving, on the other hand, tends to be a little more consistent.
The digressive piston technology offers consistent handling in all conditions. Another great thing about this shock is the heavy-duty seals that are incredibly durable compared to conventional dampeners.
Key Features
- 46mm ID smooth body
- Monotube design
- Lower mount type
- Zinc plated
- Eye 12mm upper and lower mount
- 14mm shaft diameter
Pros
- Monotube keeps F150 handling at its peak
- Does a great job of eliminating shock fading
- Patented digressive valving is perfect for a taller stance
- Zinc plated finish improves durability
- Has heavy-duty seals that don’t wear out easily
Cons
- The shock tends to provide a firmer ride
- Could be more economical if the model was available as a pair
Verdict
For the ultimate handling, control, and towing adventures, just replace the stock with this model. Get the best performance when going over bumps and rough terrains.
Overall Rating: 4.8
3. Rough Country 0-6-Inch N3 Rear Shocks — Best 10-Stage Variable Valving
These ten-stage variable valving shocks provide a superior blend of off-road action and smooth highway ride quality for your F150.
With a chrome-hardened piston rod and faster cooling large-diameter shock body, the N3 shocks offer outstanding performance under any condition. You’ve got a heavy-duty seal for a seriously long lifespan. The dampeners are fluid-rated to -40 degrees Celsius. Each shock is equipped with rubber bushings for remarkable vibration dampening.
These high-performing dampeners are nitrogen-charged at 200 psi, which helps with prolonging the durability of the shocks. The nitrogen charge also helps prevent foaming. Each shock features a sensitive valving for the best performance.
Key Features
- 10-stage variable valving
- Fast-cooling shock body
- Nitrogen charged
- Spring-loaded piston
- Fluid rated to -40°C
- Rubber bushings
Pros
- They are incredibly easy to install
- Great for energy absorption during suspension extension
- Nitrogen charged design prevents foaming
- Mounts body-up for a more unique look
- The fast-cooling shock body dissipates heat faster
Cons
- Not the most reliable warranty
Verdict
Whether you are tackling smooth city streets or tough off-road terrains, this amazing model from Rough Country will deliver the expected results. Just be on the lookout for products with design issues.
Overall Rating: 4.7
4. Monroe Load Adjusting 58643 Shock Absorber — Best Coil Spring Design
Have you finally decided to ditch your stock shocks because of poor performance? This great model from Monroe is the ideal replacement for your F150.
These shock absorbers are equipped with a heavy-gauge calibrated spring, which is great because it adjusts to weight and road conditions. This guarantees you superior control and handling under more demanding conditions. The shocks are great for occasional towing and hauling.
The cylindrical springs are specifically tuned to deliver the best performance under load. The spring does an exceptional job of reducing sag under load. The full displaced valving, on the other hand, automatically adjusts to extreme road conditions to improve ride consistency.
Another exceptional design feature is the inclusion of a PTFE banded piston, which helps eliminate friction between the pressure tube and the piston. This helps improve responsiveness to different road surfaces.
Key Features
- Monotube design
- Gas-charged
- Eyelet upper and lower mount
- Self-lubricating fluid seal
- PTFE banded piston
- Full-displaced valving
Pros
- The vehicle sits perfectly level with no tail drop
- Less sway when driving past larger trucks
- The rubber bushing protects your vehicle against the spring
- They offer extra support to the suspension system
- They do a great job of eliminating rear-end squat
Cons
- They don’t come pre-compressed (no compression banding)
Verdict
These shocks are uniquely designed to improve the performance of your F150. Just keep in mind that they don’t come with compression banding.
Overall Rating: 4.7
5. KYB 349108 Excel-G Gas Shock — Best Twin-Tube Design
This shock will do more than just give you a comfortable ride. It does a great job of restoring the F150’s original control and road traction capabilities.
The KYB Excel-G is engineered to help restore the control, handling, road traction, and steering response of your F150. This model features a twin-tube design, which is great because it provides less vulnerability to denting and damage, larger diameter piston rods, better compression control, and simpler sealing technology.
The piston rods are chrome-plated to reduce seal wear. You’ve got a synthetic oil seal that does a good job of keeping contaminants out. The solid seamless bolt bushings and mounting eye rings eliminate rattles.
Key Features
- Twin-tube design
- Eyelet upper and lower mount
- Rubber bushing
- Nitrogen gas-charged
- Vehicle specific
- Electronic stability control
- Triple chrome-plated piston rods
- Synthetic oil seal
- PTFE band
Pros
- It ensures less vulnerability to damage and denting
- The shock offers superior compression control
- Great for improving stopping distance
- Very effective at restoring design stability
- Good for maintaining wheel alignment
Cons
- The package only comes with one shock
- The twin-tube design has a tendency of foaming
Verdict
This amazing shock absorber from KYB is very effective at improving lane change, stopping, and stability responsiveness. It does more than just restore designed performance.
Overall Rating: 4.7
6. Detroit Axle Rear Shock Absorbers — Best for Preventing Noise Transmission
Have you been looking for shocks that are uniquely engineered to meet and exceed the performance levels of your stock model? Look no further than these great shocks from Detroit Axle.
Premium quality materials are used to engineer these high-performing rear shocks. They are designed to exact stock quality and specifications. We appreciate the fact that they provide wide coverage of suspension ride control. The shocks’ heavy-duty parts are ready to meet the demanding conditions of on and off-road terrains.
You’ve got high-quality bolts, nuts, and bearings that match the exact specifications of your stock upper strut mount. We truly appreciate the hollow bumper that does a good job of preventing components from getting damaged. Not to mention that the bumper helps to strengthen shock absorption.
Unlike conventional coilovers, the coil spring on this model features premium quality steel engineering and precision calibration. This provides superior weight support and helps maintain the appropriate height position.
The design is incorporated with an upper spring seat for preventing the transmission of vibration or noise into the chassis. You’ve also got lower spring isolators for preventing the vibration caused by metal-to-metal contact.
Key Features
- Coilover design
- Lower spring isolators
- Upper spring seat
- Hollow bumper
- Upper strut mount
- Electrophoretic coating
Pros
- OE manufactured for superior form, fit, and function
- Uniquely engineered to support weight and restore ride height
- Great at strengthening shock absorption
- They don’t transmit vibration or noise into the chassis
- They have decent oxidation and corrosion resistance
Cons
- Some models may miss certain mounting hardware
Verdict
With these shocks, you will restore as well as exceed stock performance. Just make sure you get all the mounting hardware.
Overall Rating: 4.7
7. Gabriel 81750 Guardian Shock — Best Leak-Proof Piston Seal
If you want to restore your F150 to its stock performance level, these good-quality shocks from Gabriel are a great replacement for you.
They give great performance and great value, and here is why. They are nitrogen gas-charged, which provides a superior response because it helps keep your F150 tires in constant contact with the road. This means better safety, handling, and performance.
The shock absorbers are incorporated with 9-stage valving technology and each design is specifically tuned to deliver new-vehicle-like performance. The shocks have a super finished chromed piston rod, which most conventional shocks don’t have.
So, why is chrome so important? When compared to untreated rods, chromed piston rods offer exceptional protection from rust and corrosion.
We appreciate the twin-tube design. The primary advantage of these shock absorbers is that they are not prone to foaming, compared to conventional models. This means you get better ride control by reducing roughness, noise, and fade.
Key Features
- Twin-tube design
- Front position
- Chromed piston rods
- Down-over-mandrel tubing
- Leak-proof piston seal
- 9-stage valving
- Nitrogen gas-charged
Pros
- Twin-tube design reduces noise, fade, and roughness
- The best for improving stability and restoring ride height
- Chromed piston rods prevent rust and corrosion
- They ensure your tires are in constant contact with the road
- Have leak-proof piston seals for extending product life
Cons
- Some models may not be able to take repeated hitting of bumps
Verdict
As long as you make sure that you don’t receive short shocks, this model from Gabriel is built to perform and last. Not to mention that the chromed piston rods and leak-proof piston seal guarantee long-lasting durability.
Overall Rating: 4.2
Things to Consider When Looking for the Best Shocks for F150
Types of Shocks
Here are the various types of shocks you can consider buying for your f150:
Monotube
A monotube shock uses a single-wall shock tube to encase the pressurized gas, shock oil, and piston. The gas and oil are separated by a moving piston with an O-ring seal. The damping valves for both the rebound and compression stages are located on the piston.
Monotubes are much more precise at dampening compared to twin tubes because of the higher level of precision they are engineered to. They are not prone to foaming.
Twin Tube
A twin-tube shock is fitted with two chambers inside the body of the shock (inner and outer chamber). The inner chamber consists of the oil and the piston. There is a valve on the end of the piston.
Most twin-tube shocks cycle the same volume of oil back and forth through the control valve. Full-flow twin-tube shocks are usually equipped with extra check valves to prevent heat control issues. Some conventional twin-tube models may be vulnerable to foaming.
Coilover Shock
This is a type of suspension that allows you to adjust different aspects of your f150’s ride height. A coil-over-shock replaces the stock shock and spring. The spring rate is determined by your f150 weight and intended ride quality. The coil is placed on the shock and allows for easy height adjustment of your truck. Both monotube and twin-tube designs are available as coil-over shocks.
Hydraulic Vs Gas-Charged Shocks
Not all vehicles are the same, and that is why shocks are engineered specifically for each application. Some vehicles may have low gas pressure and high hydraulic control. The hydraulic part offers control while the correct gas pressure ensures steady performance. Hydraulic shocks provide a smoother, softer ride, while gas-charged shocks deliver a sportier ride.
How to Measure for the Right Shock Fit
Shocks have two directions to travel. They have rebound as the shock extends and compression as the shock compresses. You don’t want to have your shock completely bottomed down when sitting at ride height, nor do you want it to be fully topped out. Any of the two extremes could cause damage to the shock and your vehicle.
So, how do you measure for shocks?
The first measurement is going to be the length of the shock extended. So, you are going to take it from the eye to the end of the piston. The second measurement you have to take is the compressed length. With the two measurements, you can easily find the best fit for your f150.
How to Do a Shock Inspection on Your F150
Your stock shocks may not display any signs of wear. But we advise you to request a ride control inspection when your vehicle is in service. This will help ensure your vehicle is operating at optimal condition.
During the inspection, make sure you assess how you use your f150 and conduct physical and ride assessments. Take your f150 for a test drive to ensure that the stability, stopping, and steering of your truck are not compromised in any way.
Make sure you check for any symptoms of wear like:
- Vibrations when driving
- Cracked bushings
- Leaking fluid
- Uneven tire wear
- Poor braking performance
- Nose diving when braking
- Bouncy ride
- Squat in the rear during acceleration
- Truck sways or rolls when cornering
See also our roundup of the best batteries for F150.
FAQs
How regularly do I need to change my F150’s shocks?
You can find the manufacturer’s recommendations in your owner’s manual. But the average maintenance schedule ranges from 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
What are the common indicators of worn-out shocks?
The most common warning signs you should look for include unusual tire wear, tire bouncing, leaking fluid, rear-end squat, and instability at high speeds.
How long should I expect my F150 shocks to last?
Shocks that have really been put to use should last roughly five years. But if you don’t use your f150 regularly, you should expect a lifespan of approximately 10 years.
What Are the Overall Best Shocks for F150?
For this roundup, the winner is Bilstein B8 5100 Rear Shocks. What makes these shocks stand out is their ride height adjustable design. They are a superior upgrade over your rear stock shocks. They will provide a smoother ride and ensure that your f150 doesn’t jump around.
If you are planning to haul a camper of about 5,000 pounds, these are great shocks for improving stability and ride height while towing. The monotube design doesn’t foam. They feature outstanding gas pressure technology for consistent performance. They also offer great value for the money and they are an ideal alternative to conventional coil spring spacers.
If you also want to upgrade your brake pads for your F150, check out our top picks. for the best F150 brake pads and rotors.
