The 5 Best Replacement Shocks For Toyota Tacoma 4×4 (Reviews-2022)

Are you looking for the best replacement shocks for Toyota Tacoma 4×4? Then, you’re in the right place!

Toyota Tacoma 4×4 is a beast when it comes to off-road driving. The vehicle is best suited to take on rough terrains and performs flawlessly in the most unfavorable situations.

It offers incredible horsepower and torque that can cover most terrains easily. However, with time, the original shocks wear out, and the vehicle experiences a lot of jerks, which can be frustrating.

To avoid this from happening, you need to find the best replacement shocks for Toyota Tacoma. Luckily for you, we have already done the homework and picked four of the best options on the market based on performance, price, and other such factors.

Let’s have a look at detailed reviews. Here are the four best replacements shocks for Toyota Tacoma 4×4:

Best Shocks for Toyota Tacoma 4×4 (Comparison)

Image	Model	Years	Price
	Bilstein 4600 (Top Pick)	05-12	Check Price
	Unity Shocks	05-12	Check Price
	Bilstein 5100	05-15	Check Price
	Detroit Axle	05-15	Check Price
	DTA 70020B	05-12	Check Price
	Rancho RS9000XL	05-12	Check Price

Bilstein 4600 Series Shocks (Editor’s Choice)

The all-new Bilstein Monotube Shocks for the suspension systems help absorb and reduce shock impulses. The set includes two shocks for your 2WD Toyota Tacoma’s front suspension (#24-185042 and #24-185066) and two shocks for the rear suspension system (#24-185703). As the terminology implies, the 4600 Series  Struts and Shock Absorbers are also referred to as gas pressurized shocks.

Bilstein monotube shocks comprise an internal pressure tube compartment with two pistons: the working piston and the floating piston. Both pistons compress in close synchronicity within the pressure tube, and the compression rate depends upon the road condition. Therefore, installing these Bilstein 4600 Series shocks in your vehicle helps you to maneuver your car in a much better way.

And when you have superior drive control, you can rest assured that everybody and everything in your vehicle will stay secure. These front and rear suspension shocks make the most of Bilstein’s patented design, allowing your vehicle to move effortlessly over any terrain or road surface.  The two pairs of shocks from Bilstein work well, especially with heavy-duty SUVs, pickups, and RVs.

These heavy-duty shock absorbers are more efficient compared to their forerunners as they’re slimmer but still ensure smoother rides.

Pros

• Fits on Toyota Tacoma (2005-2014) 2WD with five-lug wheels
• Perfect upgrade to worn-out stock or existing shocks extending your vehicle’s service life
• Dampers absorb and cushion the impact of bumps and shocks to wheels when moving through rough and uneven roads
• It comes with all hardware and accessories making installation a breeze

Cons

• Mileage does not improve if you’re driving on muddy and grimy roads
• You’ll need to buy cushioning separately

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Unity Shocks

The Unity 4-11563-254070-001 Front and Rear 4-Wheel Struts offer thorough out-of-the-box shock absorbers. Embodying over 30 years of production experience, these Unity strut assembly serves as an ideal drop-in replacement for the depleted stock shocks. In addition, the front and rear 4-wheel complete strut assembly come equipped with all necessary components and accessories needed for an out-and-out shock replacement.

This Unity Strut kit comprises a pre-assembled replacement bearing plate, coil spring, a premium strut, upper spring seat, upper and lower spring isolators. These struts from Unity have been designed and created with scrupulous to resemble the OEM-style shocks and struts. So you can go ahead and buy these Unity shocks as they’ll seamlessly fit on your vehicle, ultimately reinstating the factory ride height.

This Unity complete strut assembly is delivered to you in a ready-to-install state, thus ensuring that the shocks will work as ideal replacements for your vehicle. The assembly includes premium bearing, factory torqued top upper mount, stock spec coil spring, and chrome-electroplated strut piston. In addition, Unity has conducted meticulous research for years to identify the common issues associated with aftermarket struts and shocks.

After identifying and remedying every problem, Unity subjected all its products to strict quality control and testing before putting them up for sale.

Pros

• Struts fit on 2005-2012 Toyota Tacoma; 2007-2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser, 2003-2013 Toyota 4 Runner (except X-REAS suspension)
• Strut assembly constitutes 50 separate components that work in perfect concert
• Plastic parts tested rigorously for appropriate hardness levels
• Coated with phosphate and chrome for preventing corrosion
• Metallographic tested for ensuring material’s consistency and durability
• Subjected to 2,000,000 cycle tests
• Computer-controlled CNC machine welding for ensuring consistent soldering throughout
• Precise OEM dimensions and angles for every part

Cons

• Much stiffer than OEM shocks, and the stiffness remains for some time before they become smoother
• You’ll need professional assistance for installing the struts

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Bilstein 5100

Bilstein 5100 comes with a monotube gas pressure construction and offers superior strength. Its high durability is due to the zinc coating above, and it also contains a self-adjusting disc valve system.

These features make it one of the best replacement shocks for Toyota Tacoma 4×4.

Features

1. No Foaming: Foaming can occur when the vehicle heats up pretty bad. However, with Bilstein 5100, you can stop this. When a buildup occurs, the oil heat is transferred to the shock’s outer surface. That causes the oil to expand and restrict viscosity loss and foaming (aeration).
2. Immediate Rebound: A quality piston head on the shock provides impressive and quick rebound when the vehicle encounters an obstacle or bump.
   No matter how fast you’re going, the shocks will absorb the impact and ensure that there are little to no jerks. Still, do not forget to wear your seatbelts for safety purposes.
3. Withstands Side Loads: This shock is manufactured so that the rod points into the strut tube so that maximum side load can be borne.
   Installing this shock increases the pressure tube surface because of the additional diameter. Thus, your Toyota Tacoma will bear heavy side loads with great ease.
4. Wear Resistant: Bilstein 5100 is equipped with a 46mm monotube gas tube that is wear-resistant. It moves vertically to absorb maximum impact from a bumpy road and provides you with a smooth ride with fewer jumps.
5. Snap Ring Grooves: These provide a 2.75” front-end lift to your vehicle.

Pros

• A large piston area offers better damping.
• Stock can be adjusted into three heights (from stock to 2.5 inches).
• Fade-free performance.
• Suspension and wheel travel increase by 1 to 2 inches.

Cons

• It takes a few days to work smoothly.

Bilstein 5100 is a reliable replacement shock for Toyota Tacoma 4×4. It is easy to install and enhances vehicle performance by a great deal.

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Detroit Axle

If you own a Toyota Tacoma 4×4 manufactured between 2005-20015, installing Detroit Axle will prove a good option.

This shock absorber will handle the shocks that come along the path and improve the overall performance of the vehicle. As a result, you will notice an immediate change in the driving experience.

Features

1. Longer Lifespan: Unlike most shocks, this one is meant to last for a long period. This is possible thanks to the high-end materials it is made up of and the accurate measurements.
2. Protection: This shock is designed to handle outside elements such as dirt, debris since it is equipped with a top-notch seal.
3. No Leaks: There are top-quality O-rings on the shocks, which are meant to prevent leaks and offer smooth performance.

Apart from that, it also helps to sustain proper pressure in the inner tube of the shock.

Pros

• The durable rubber bushings protect it from wear and tear.
• Supports a wide range of Toyota Tacoma models (2005-2015).
• Wear and tear protected.
• Easy to install and lasts long.

Cons

• Supports a few vehicle brands only.

This shock is an excellent fit for Toyota Tacoma models due to its rigid construction. It is meant to offer fantastic performance for many years. Installing these shocks will eliminate your worries regarding sudden leans and jerks on the way.

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DTA 70020B

You can install DTA 70020B on all Toyota Tacomas built between 2005-2012. They’re easy to install and last for a very long time.

Features

1. Gas Charged And Solid Piston: The strut is nitrogen gas charged and incorporates a unique four-lip Teflon band piston with a strong seal. The piston has a chrome finish on the body that protects it from corrosion.
2. Long-Lasting: The coil spring in this shock is heated, treated, and then powder coated to increase durability. Hence, it lasts for many years by withstanding wear and tear.
3. Quiet Operation: The spring seats are adequately insulated to reduce noise. Hence, you won’t hear any squeaks when an obstacle is hit.

Pros

• Neoprene boots make them durable.
• It has a limited lifetime warranty.
• Offers a guaranteed fit on Toyota Tacomas between 2005-2012.
• TUV and SUD certified.

Cons

• Doesn’t come with instructions.

This strut is a viable choice for Toyota Tacoma owners who want a durable and long-lasting shock for their vehicles.

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Rancho Suspension QuickLIFT Loaded Strut and Shock Kit

It is one of the most powerful shocks you can get for your vehicle. It incorporates the RS9000XL nine position adjustability feature that takes your vehicle’s performance up a notch.

This shock looks like a juggernaut and can handle highly rough terrains. In addition, the nine adjustable positions make it suitable for your Toyota Tacoma to perform off-road driving, towing, etc.

Features

1. Proper Flow Of Fluids: A shock will perform for years to come as long as the fluids in it flow properly. Fortunately, this beauty works on gas pressurization technology that ensures a proper flow of fluids. Moreover, it also restricts the shocks from fading.
2. Liquid Metallic Finish: The durability of this suspension is off the charts, thanks to the liquid metallic finish on the body. It prevents outside elements from causing wear and tear.
3. Better Fluid Capacity And Stays Cool: The RS9000XL rear shocks in this suspension system offer good fluid capacity thanks to the large body (2.75 inches). The large shock body regulates oil even when the car faces several bumps. This ensures the journey remains smooth and the car stays cool.
4. 9 Adjustable Positions: You can set the tuning level out of nine positions ranging from soft to firm. It helps in facing a variety of terrains quickly.

Pros

• Excellent rebound.
• Lifetime warranty.
• Offers 400% charge in vehicle control.
• It incorporates an extra-large shock body.

Cons

• Quite expensive.

This suspension kit comes with rear RS9000XL shocks and front suspensions of fantastic quality. It will reduce bumps and provide excellent performance.

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Best Replacement Shocks For Toyota Tacoma 4×4 Buying Guide

While we have covered some of the best shocks for Toyota Tacoma (4WD) for you to choose from, it is still essential to know about the factors to consider. Let’s have a look:

1. Size: The bigger the body, the better the performance. A big shock can regulate more fluid and hence is effective in staying cool.
2. Protection: Buy a shock that can handle outside elements such as dirt, debris, and particles so that you don’t have to invest in another shock too soon.
3. Absorb Impacts: The shock should have excellent rebounding capabilities so that it can absorb impacts on the road.
4. Fewer Leaks: A shock with a tight seal will ensure no leaks at all. Hence, look for one with a good and tight seal.

Also: read this guide if you need a new battery for your Toyota Tacoma.

So What Are the Best Shocks for Toyota Tacoma 4×4?

All the options discussed above are pretty good, but our pick would be Bilstein 4600. It is among the best replacement shocks for Toyota Tacoma 4×4 because it offers excellent rebounding, can resist wear and tear. It also prevents foaming and can bear side loads like a pro.