Are you looking for the best shocks for Ford Escape? You’re in the right place. We’ll help you make an informed decision.
Ford, an automobile industry giant, shook their fans with the release of the Ford Escape. The model, possessing incredible strength and versatility, is a blessing for hybrid enthusiasts. If you are a Ford Escape owner looking for ideas to upgrade your ride, we have something for you.
With aftermarket automobile upgrades, the rider’s sole motive is to enhance their vehicle’s performance. The most brilliant move towards automobile upgrade is to look for the best shocks for your vehicle. Shocks are a part of the suspension system and ensure protection against corrosion caused by braking in your tires.
Irrespective of your experience on the road, investing in premium quality shocks is a good plan to enhance your vehicle’s durability. Undoubtedly, the market is overloaded with different shocks, creating confusion for those who are new to the game.
However, now that you are here, you can set your confusion aside and explore your options. Read along with the reviews on the ten of the best shocks for a Ford Escape below:
Best Shocks for Ford Escape – Comparison Table
| Image | Model | Years | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monroe 37217 Shocks (Top Pick for the 1st Generation) | 2001-2007 | Check Price |
 | Monroe 37318 Shocks (Top Pick for the 2nd Generation) | 2008-2012 | Check Price |
 | Monroe 39111 Shocks (Top Pick for the 3rd Generation) | 2013-2019 | Check Price |
 | Sensen 2291-RS Shocks | 2001-2007 | Check Price |
 | KYB 349101 Shocks | 2008-2012 | Check Price |
 | KYB 344356 Shocks | 2001-2007 | Check Price |
 | Sensen 2292-RS Shocks | 2008-2012 | Check Price |
 | KYB 553392 Shocks | 2013-2019 | Check Price |
 | Unity 4-11621-252040-001 | 2008-2012 | Check Price |
 | Unity 4-11973-252420-001 | 2013-2019 | Check Price |
1. Monroe 37217 Shocks (Editor’s Choice for the 1st Generation)
The Monroe 37217 are the best shocks for a Ford Escape available on the market at the moment, in our opinion.
Charged by high-pressured Nitrogen gas, the Monroe 37217 shocks ensure constant contact between the vehicle’s tires and the road. The shocks achieve this by minimizing aeration and enhancing control, which makes them ideal automobile companions.
Features
Loaded with Acceleration Sensitive Damping (ASD), an exclusive valving system, the Monroe 37217 shocks outshine conventional rivals. A fluon piston accompanies the ASD mechanism, and the combination produces superior handling and responsiveness. The displayed valving can be customized as per the vehicle’s specific requirements.
The bulkier bore than the standard ones ensures a comfortable ride by tackling harsh road conditions. Aeration and fade will never be a concern with the Monroe 37217 shocks, all thanks to the nitrogen charge.
Furthermore, the all-weather fluid controls the breakdown of oil by taking care of the internal temperature. With the help of the self-lubricating seal, you won’t have to worry about wear and tear.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Easy handling
- Vibration and noise reduction
- Better valving technology
- Ride consistency
Cons
- Some buyers have reported leaking
The Monroe 37217 shocks feature the Acceleration Sensitive Damping technology, which gives them an upper hand in the market. Moreover, the shocks deliver an impact-free, noise-free performance even under the harshest road circumstances. The shocks’ piston and pressure tube are sealed and work to give out better handling and control.
2. Monroe 37318 Shocks (Editor’s Choice for the 2nd Generation)
SUV owners love the Monroe 37318 shocks for their nitrocarburized piston rods. These measure 5/8” in diameter and are engineered to ensure better service life. The shocks weigh around 5 pounds and are super easy to install.
Features
The Monroe 37318 shocks come from the OESpectrum segment, which is known for precise handling. These shocks block out noise, vibration, and roughness, thereby delivering exceptional control and stability. The valving responds to challenging road situations, while a wider bore allows more effective control over damping. As a result, you get an effortless and frictionless ride.
The valving technology, run by the Acceleration Sensitive Damping (ASD) mechanicals, further enhances ride quality. Upon limiting aeration and shock fade, nitrogen charge retains optimum contact between the tires and the road. Moreover, the additives in the all-weather fluid featured in the Monroe 37318 shocks serve as excellent regulators of extreme temperatures.
The Fluon-coated piston, along with a high-quality pressure tube, ensures smooth control.
Pros
- Easy on the pocket
- Easy installation
- Excellent fitting
- Comes with warranty
Cons
- Buyers have reported leakage
The installation of the Monroe 37318 shocks is an absolute cakewalk. You will need to follow the company’s instructions to have your shocks ready without any hassles. Make sure that you unseal the restraining band only when you’re ready to install the shocks. The rest of it is a smooth sail.
3. Sensen 2291-RS Shocks
No one objects to an affordable yet reliable aftermarket upgrade. If you know Sensen, you’d know about their decent reputation in the shocks and struts market. The Sensen 2291-RS (rear struts) is an underdog in the world of aftermarket upgrades.
However, the real players know how to reap benefits from a lifetime warranty stamp and cheaper alternatives to premium brands.
Features
The Sensen 2291-RS sits on an eye-ring made of fine-quality steel. These come with a piston rod, fully chrome-coated, that ensures reduced friction and wear. The powder coating covering the structure is put in place to prevent rusting. The finishing on the Sensen 2291-RS shocks looks promising if we think about long-term usage corrosion.
The shocks bear high-grade mounts, rubber, and bearings. All these work towards enhancing the overall performance and perfecting the handling and responsiveness.
Pros
- Long-lasting finish
- ISO 9001 certified
- Lifetime Warranty
- Company tested
Cons
- Prone to rusting
Sensen claims to subject its products to high-quality control checks. The Sensen 2291-RS shocks, too, are a product of high-quality metallurgical processes. These shocks can go a long way if they are maintained consistently and serviced regularly.
4. KYB 349101 Shocks
If you fancy superior handling while retaining the vehicle’s original functionalities, then the KYB 349101 shocks could be your best pals. These shocks are engineered to restore the suspension performance of the vehicle’s original suspension cycle. The shocks feature twin-tube technology and can fit almost every vehicle.
Features
The KYB 349101 shocks are specially tuned to help restore your SUV’s original functionality and capabilities. Being the most dominant shocks supplier, KYB ensures that all its shocks and struts feature the same OE (original equipment qualities). The KYB 349101 shocks, too, come with the signature OE components and assembly lines of the company.
The shocks fit almost every vehicle in the market. The bolt bushings and eye-rings in these shocks are seamless, which ensures the elimination of rattling noises. The oil seals in the KYB 349101 shocks are multi-lip that works well with the chromium-plated pistons against corrosion. The Teflon-protected piston band is paired with a seamless cylinder for maximum durability.
Pros
- Durable
- Easy replacement
- Easy installation
- Excellent fitting
- Comes with warranty
Cons
- Some buyers found the installation instructions confusing
The performance delivered by the KYB 349101 shocks is unbeatable; all hail to the company’s signature OE assembly lines. However, you need to be well-equipped in case you decide to go for self-installation. The lifetime warranty stamp adds more value to these shocks.
5. KYB 344356 Shocks
Just like their 349101 counterparts, the KYB 344356 shocks work more as the vehicle’s original capability enhancers rather than replacements. They are designed to restore your vehicle’s original responsiveness and handling, a feature that makes them unique and intriguing.
Features
You don’t have to fear wearing your tires if you have the KYB 344356 shocks in place. These shocks maintain the wheel’s alignment pretty efficiently and ensure constant contact between the tires and the ground.
They come with the scope of customization and a damping system that is hand-assembled.
Moreover, the piston rods are plated with chromium ensuring the reduction of corrosion. The wiper and oil seal function together to keep contamination in check. The KYB 344356 shocks feature the Electronic Stability Control. Other electronic safety mechanisms that come with these shocks ensure a superior ride performance.
Pros
- Better stability restoration
- Better lane change responsiveness
Cons
- More on the pricey side as compared to market rivals
KYB has always remained the absolute favorite amongst SUV drivers for the quality of their shocks. The KYB 344356 shocks offer no exception to the quality of KYB’s OE components. If you want to restore your vehicle’s original capabilities and control, installing the KYB 344356 shocks is a fine choice.
6. Monroe 39111 Shocks (Editor’s Choice for the 3rd Generation)
If your vehicle has pre-installed monotube shocks, the Monroe 39111 shocks will be the most spot-on upgrade. The monotube design in these shocks is supported by its OESpectrum technology, making them top the upgrade game.
Features
The OESpectrum supported monotubes in the Monroe 39111 model does an unbeatable job at filtering out vibrations and rattles. Compatible with vehicles that already feature the monotube technology, these shocks work towards matching your vehicle’s OE profile. This includes your vehicle’s handling performance and ride profile.
Nitrogen charge ensures maximum contact between the tires and the road, and a free-floating piston reduces aeration and shock fade. All the other features remain the same as other standard Monroe shocks.
Pros
- Compatible with vehicles that already feature the monotube technology
- Easy installation
- Come with a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- None so far
One can never go wrong with the “Monroe Promise.” The Monroe 39111 shocks live up to the expectations set by the manufacturers. SUV enthusiasts vouch for Monroe shocks, and with good reason.
7. Sensen 2292-RS Shocks
The Sensen 2292-RS is another affordable set of shocks and struts that can last you a very long time. Weighing about 16 pounds, this model comes as a much cheaper substitute to contemporary rival manufacturers.
Features
The Sensen 2292-RS is a one-step solution to your budget problems. These shocks allow you to experience Japanese technology under an affordable umbrella. The seal fitted in these comes from the Japanese NOK suppliers. The seal is double-lipped, which ensures better handling.
The shocks also feature OE Eneos® oil, which is known to maintain its properties even in extreme temperatures. The spring seat and the tube are both heavy gauge, and the valving system comes from the OE suppliers.
Pros
- Lifetime warranty
- Testing during the manufacturing
- Interteck Global certified
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Buyers have reported early rusting
- Customer service requires improvement
Overall, the Sensen 2292-RS appears to be a decent aftermarket investment. However, you need to ensure after-purchase customer care because buyers do face challenges with customer service.
8. KYB 553392 Shocks
Featuring the monotube design, the KYB 553392 shocks are an excellent choice as both a monotube substitute and a twin-tube aftermarket upgrade. Aeration and shock fade appear to be primitive issues with these shock absorbers.
Features
Like any other twin-tube design, the KYB 553392 shocks come with two separate chambers for hydraulic piston and nitrogen gas. The hydraulic chamber features a valve and a piston in an air-free environment for superior responsiveness.
On the other hand, the nitrogen gas chamber is a high-pressure area containing a free-floating piston. The free-floating piston ensures a smooth ride and heavy-duty performance off-road.
Makers of the KYB 553392 shocks incline the Ford Escape, as they specify the compatibility between the two. The shocks are tuned to match the original mechanicals and ride characteristics of the Ford Escape.
Pros
- Superior stability
- Better controlled rides
- Enhanced adjustment to ride conditions
Cons
- None so far
To help the riders achieve exceptional control over the wheels, the KYB 553393 shocks come with a high-pressure nitrogen chamber. Additionally, the hydraulic chamber ensures a fade-free experience. The shocks are an example of a successful amalgamation of the two units, working together to optimize ride performance.
9. Unity 4-11621-252040-001
Unity Automotive needs no introduction. The company has been manufacturing great shocks for more than thirty years. The Unity 4-11621-252040-001 is an easy to install, all-inclusive strut assembly kit. These are delivered so that they fit the vehicle’s suspension system directly, without affecting the original height of the vehicle.
Welcome to the world of hassle-free strut installation with the Unity 4-11621-252040-001 kit.
Features
Unity Automotive has made an upgrade for SUV owners a piece of cake. The Unity 4-11621-252040-001 strut kit comes as a preinstalled unit, ready to fit the vehicle: the chromium layered piston and the OEM coil spring work in perfect harmony to ensure a smooth ride. Furthermore, the top mount of the struts is Factory Torqued.
The Unity 4-11621-252040-001 struts also feature a spring seal and high-grade phosphorous as the primary coating material. The best part is, you don’t have to possess an advanced tool kit to install these. The installation, changing, and repair are stress-free tasks with these shocks and struts.
Pros
- Units are road-tested
- Structure undergoes a metallographic check and salt check for durability.
- High-grade rubber used in the structure
Cons
- A little pricey as compared to other shocks with similar specifications
The Unity 4-11621-252040-001 struts are an undeniably high-quality addition to an automobile’s suspension. Although these fall more towards the pricier side of the spectrum, the features make up for that.
10. Unity 4-11973-252420-001
If you don’t mind crossing your budget to get high-quality specifications, then the Unity 4-11973-252420-001 struts will catch your eye. Unity Automotive is the shark in aftermarket upgrade, which makes the quality of their auto-parts obvious. The Unity 4-11973-252420-001 struts promise an easy installation and fantastic durability.
Features
The Unity 4-11973-252420-001 shock absorber kit, just like its counterparts, is an overachiever with its solid and reliable parts. Along with a convenient and hassle-free installation, the Unity 4-11973-252420-001 shocks provide an ideal fit.
The versatility of these shocks lies in their ability to retain the factory ride height of the vehicle. Without a tinge of doubt, the shocks deliver an unbeatable performance on the road.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Reliable manufacturing company
- Shocks are road-tested by the company
- Ease of installation
Cons
- Expensive
Like we mentioned before, if going off-budget is not an issue, the Unity 4-11973-252420-001 shocks will make you obsessed. These come with ready-to-install strut assemblies for both the driver and the passenger side. The ease of installation alone makes this one take the trophy.
How to Pick the Best Shocks for a Ford Escape?
When it comes to compact SUVs, the Ford Escape leaves no doubts in minds. The Ford Escape is a clear winner with one of the highest expected reliability scores in the world of SUVs. With lush interiors and great features, this car is fully capable of making its rider obsessed with its performance and comfort.
For Escape riders, putting effort and giving up on a few extra pennies for new shocks is no problem. However, selecting the best shocks for a Ford Escape can be cumbersome in a lot of ways. The problem starts with selecting the most reliable manufacturers that make shocks compatible with the SUV. With endless options, it becomes a task to settle for one model and leave another.
Therefore, we are here to offer a solution. We contemplated and came up with the most critical points to consider while investing in new shocks. Read along to find a way to choose the best shocks for a Ford Escape:
Exceptional Durability and Lifetime Warranty or Nothing:
You are here to upgrade a Ford Escape, and you won’t settle for fragile shocks. Your vehicle is strong enough to cross difficult terrains but is still prone to wear when subjected to brutal bumps.
One must make sure that the shocks they are settling for are heavy-duty and resistant to corrosion. One way of understanding this is to interact with people who already own good replacement shocks. Another way is to find out which technology suits your vehicle’s requirements the best.
Good manufacturers provide all the technical information, along with a lifetime warranty stamp with their products. Although this may require more pennies than usual, every penny spent will be worthwhile.
Count the Miles:
It’s always advisable to maintain a consistent check on your shock absorbers to ensure their longevity. Assessing them every 50,000 miles or so will give you a fair idea concerning the extent of wearing. Regardless of the distance covered, the kind of roads you trail on also determines their durability.
With an SUV like the Ford Escape, you’d want to steer clear of deep sand and mud. Such off-road adventures may be detrimental to your new shocks. However, more aftermarket upgrades, especially with the tires, could help. Nonetheless, a good shock will last you long with proper maintenance and service.
Size does Matter:
You will find shocks in a multitude of sizes and weight range. They are designed to meet the specific fit requirements of different vehicles.
A lot of these come with the scope of calibration to meet the requirements of peculiar configurations. You need to know the exact fit requirement of your Ford Escape to estimate the exact dimension of the shocks. Shocks are typically 16 to 24 inches long, but according to the vehicle, this may vary.
Wrap-Up: The Best Shocks for a Ford Escape
The best shocks for a Ford Escape would be the Monroe 37217 shocks. These are super-sturdy and ideal for the most difficult of road conditions.
Features such as the Nitrogen charge, the all-weather fluid, and the Acceleration Sensitive Damping technology are top-notch. These features are far more superior in the Monroe 37217 shocks as compared to the rivals. A Ford Escape deserves the Monroe pampering.