Whether you are a new entrant to off-roading or not, the best shocks for Jeep JK no lift can help you navigate nearly every tough terrain you take your Jeep Wrangler JK. However, finding the best shocks for your Jeep JK among the competing shocks in the flooded automobile market can be a daunting task for anyone.
While you might be focusing on affordability, durability and lifespan might be as well be the main deciding factors for other potential buyers. Moreover, shocks on a Jeep JK are not really meant to shoulder much more than the weight of the Jeep itself when it is not lifted. When the Jeep is lifted, the weight of the vehicle is distributed differently and therefore the shocks can no longer handle the weight. Therefore, any stock shock set compatible with no lift is difficult to find.
Regardless, you can still find some good shock models that you can use for upgrades without lift. Below, we have reviewed 5 top-rated shocks for Jeep JK no lift that we think can fit your experiences and preferences.
FOX PERF. SERIES IFP SHOCKS – Best Overall
- Set of 4 Shocks - compatible with Vehicles w/0-1" Lift
- Shock boots & Roost Shields sold separately.
- Monotube gas charged with 2-inch aluminum seemless alloy body. Shocks are rebuildable and nitrogen gas-rechargeable.
- All necessary washers, bushings, and nuts included. Factory shock mounting bolts are reused for installation.
If you are looking to upgrade your Jeep JK Wrangler’s shocks, then a set of FOX Performance Series IFP Shocks are your best bet. We can guarantee that you can’t go wrong with this set of 4 stocks shocks that are compatible with Jeep JK models of w/0-1-inch lift. however, you have to buy shock boots and roost shields separately.
These shocks are a monotube gas charged with 2-inch aluminum seamless alloy body to offer smooth and stable rides regardless of the off-road terrain you take your adventure. Besides, these shocks feature the latest in shock technology to take the performance of your Jeep to the next level. For instance, they use race-certified damping control to offer a comfortable on-road ride as well as impeccable off-road handling even on the roughest terrains.
The shocks feature a rigid construction to ensure they withstand whatever comes their way. the precision metal impact aluminum casing improves cooling capacity and won’t rust to weaken. The mono-tube design and the Internal Floating Piston (IFP) separate the shock oil from excessive pressure thus eliminating oil aeration for optimum performance from the factory-tuned accurate valving. The shocks are adjustable to bring balance to driving on any terrain while helping you overcome various driving obstacles.
Regardless of all these exceptional features, the main drawback of these FOX shocks is that they are not durable. Therefore, you have to be mindful of how much you ride and where since they won’t last if they hit hard on an obstacle or are extensively used on off-road tough terrains.
Key Features
- Set of 4 Shocks
- Internal Floating Piston (IFP)
- Monotube Gas Charged
- Nitrogen Gas-rechargeable
- 2-Inch Aluminum Seamless Alloy Body
- Factory-tuned Precision Valving
- FOX’s Limited 1 –Year Warranty against defects and premature failure
Bilstein 24-141727 24-141734 Pair – Best for Budget
The Bilstein Pair of Front and Rear 4600 Series Shocks are ideally designed to offer the best off-road performance but at a budget. So, if you are a frequent off-roader then you cannot go wrong with these shock absorbers. Moreover, you can use them on your 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK as a permanent solution.
These shocks are designed specially to help your stock Jeep reach its pinnacle in ride performance and handling while still offering the smoothest ride. For this reason, they are made with a mono-tube design which allows for precise control of compression and rebound of the shocks, particularly when driving on off-road terrains. They are pretty quiet too.
The shocks come with a digressive piston that allows for a stronger damping force for excellent off-road performance. It doesn’t matter if your Jeep has small-sized tires, the shocks will keep the vehicle body higher off the ground thus enabling smooth cruising no matter how rough the terrain is.
These shocks come at a very friendly price. Besides, it won’t cost you a lot on customizing your Jeep should you decide to install them for greater ground clearance. However, the primary drawback of these shocks is that they are quite hard to install. As such, you have to hire a professional to have it installed or spend several hours trying it on your own, especially if you don’t have the right tools for installation.
Key Features
- Front and Rear 4600 Series
- Monotube Gas Pressure Technology
- Direct Replacement for Factory Shocks
- Easy to Install
- Lifetime Warranty
Rough Country 4” Vertex Lift Kit – Best Performance
- Give your Wrangler JK the Perfect Blend of Performance, Protection, and Style from Rough Country.
- Unmatched Ground Clearance | The Pinnacle, Vertex Reservoir Adjustable Shock Absorbers | 8-stage Adjustable Damping | Dial-In for Any Terrain.
- Adjustable Control Arms | Clevite OEM Style Rubber Bushings | Fully Greaseable/Rebuildable | Massive 2.5" and 1.25" Thread.
- Maintains Factory Ride Quality. Easy at Home Installation, Supported by RC.
The Rough Country 4-Inch Vertex Lift Kit is a perfect shock option for those looking to increase their Jeep height. Moreover, they come with some additional features to ensure your Jeep attains a smoother ride. This shock kit is designed to provide a 4-inch lift thus perfect for taller tired Jeeps, gives your Jeep an aggressive look while improving ground clearance for excellent off-road performance.
The kit features a set of front and rear upper and lower adjustable control arms with a high-clearance design. this way, you can dial in your preferred ride. Besides, each kit also comes with lifted coil springs and coil correction plates to provide lift height and an exceptional 8-stage adjustable vibration dampening system, regardless of the terrain you drive on.
It is made of high-quality forged steel so that it offers long-lasting use and durability. The 16-pound Track Bar boasts a beefy construction that will dwarf stock equipment. Moreover, it is easy to install, therefore you will have it installed and running in no time after it is delivered. While the Vertex lift set absorbs shocks to prevent any internal damage to the motor. The 8-stage adjustment damping helps the tires ride smoothly. That way, your hands won’t slip off the steering wheel.
Overall, this is a good set of lift shocks but they are more expensive than most of its competitors in the market. However, if you often drive on rough off-road, then you are guaranteed a perfect fit for your Jeep.
Key Features
- Maintains Factory Ride Quality
- Adjustable Control Arms
- Fully Greaseable/Rebuildable
- Clevite OEM Style Rubber Bushings
- Vertex Reservoir Adjustable Shock
- Unmatched Ground Clearance
- Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty
Bilstein 5100 Monotube Gas Shock – Best for Ride Handling
- Part Numbers 24-146708 and 24-146715
- You'll be getting two front and two rear shock absorbers. Shocks are extended length for 1.5-3" front lift systems and 1.5-3" rear lift systems
- Designed for 4WD vehicles
- All necessary washers, bushings, reservoir clamps, and nuts included. Factory shock mounting bolts are reused for installation. Mounting plates sold separately.
If you are looking to bring stability to your Jeep JK or Wrangler TJ, the Bilstein 5100 Gas Shocks are the best pick for you. These are high-quality shocks with a mono-tube design meaning they are manufactured with performance and durability in mind. The mono-tube body design also allows for rapid heat transfer between the shock oil and shock body which then dissipates further to reduce shock fade.
The shocks feature 46mm digressive pistons that will help increase handling both on and off-road. The gas-charged system will ensure a smooth and comfortable ride regardless of how rough your off-road terrain is. Besides, these adjustable shocks allow you to customize their performance according to your driving experiences and preferences.
With German engineering combined with US manufacturing, these shocks will guarantee optimum performance and durability of upwards of 100K miles. This is because the 5100 series is made to be more compliant in tougher situations and off-road terrain. However, you have to buy a compressor separately in order for it to be adjustable, thus taking up more money and space.
Key Features
- Monotube Design with 46mm Digressive Piston
- Two Front and Two Rear Shocks
- Extended length for 1.5-3 Inch Front Lift Systems & 1.5-3 Inch Rear Lift Systems
- Factory Shock Mounting Bolts
- Bilstein Limited Lifetime Warranty
Rancho RS5000X Gas Shocks – Best Value for Money
- Part Numbers RS55326 and RS55328
- Set of 4 Shocks for vehicles at factory height or w/0-2" front lift and w/0-2" rear lift
- Fits 4WD vehicles
- All necessary washers, bushings, and nuts included. Factory shock mounting bolts are reused for installation.
If you are looking to enhance the ride quality and performance on your Jeep JK with better shock, then the Rancho RS5000x Gas Shocks might be your best bet. Besides, they will offer you the greatest value for your money. Ideally, these are the best shocks for the 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 4WD models. This particular model of shocks, fit perfectly fine and adapt to the factory vehicle performance to support impeccably.
These monotube gas-charged shocks are designed to offer greater control and handling even on the toughest terrain conditions. These shocks are gas pressurized to 150 PSI to minimize the air-to-oil mixture that usually causes foaming and shock fade. The gas pressurization also enables a mild boost of spring rate to the vehicle. Besides, the shocks are adjustable thus allowing customization to the ride and your own experience and preference.
The Rancho RS5000X Gas Shocks are quite responsive and distribute the riding weight evenly for greater ride quality and handling regardless of the speed bumps or terrain your venture with your Jeep Wrangler. If you hit a pothole or off-road trail obstacle, Rancho’s Progressive Engagement Valving allows the early flow of fluid to help reduce the unforgiving impacts as well as control the flow of fluid in a progressive, gradual manner through the valving. That way, the vehicle is able to maintain control and stability.
However, the main drawback of these gas shocks is that they require you to remove the entire axle for installation or replacement purposes. As such, it can be quite a hassle, since you will need professional help which will cost additional money to have them fitted.
Key Features
- Larger Shock Body
- Patented Rebound Valving System
- Progressive Engagement Valving
- Includes all necessary washers, bushings & nuts
- Rancho’s Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Rancho’s 90-Day Ride Guarantee for RS5000X, RS7000MT & RS9000XL Shocks
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Shocks for Jeep JK No Lift – Buying Guide
Choosing the best shocks cannot be done only by going through the reviews of the top-rated models in the market. For that reason, we have this guide to keep you out of any confusion when shopping for your best shocks for Jeep Wrangler no lift. So, what do need to keep an eye on? p
Size
Shocks for Jeep JK no lift come in different sizes. So, the first thing to consider is whether the shocks you are choosing are of the right size for your Jeep JK. Ideally, choose shocks of the same size as the ones that came in stock Jeep.
Lift Weight
If you are planning to lift your Jeep in the future, then you will want to purchase shocks that are slightly taller than the ones that came in stock on your Jeep. This way, you will get some extra lift height while allowing you to install larger tires in the future.
Travel
Be sure to know the distance of travel that a shock absorber you intend to buy provides. The travel distance in this case refers to the length the shock travels from its extended length to its compressed position. Usually, shocks with a lot of travel provide a smoother ride compared to those with limited travel.
Damping
Damping refers to the rate at which a shock absorber dissipates energy. If you are looking to attain a smooth ride on your Jeep JK, then consider shocks with a higher damping rate.
Price
What is your budget? It is important that you shop for shocks around and compare the prices before making a purchase. That way, you will find shocks that are within your budget while offering the best driving experience and durability.
FAQs
What are the best JK shocks?
The Bilstein 5100 is the most popular shock absorber for trucks, SUVs, or Jeeps with outstanding daily driveability and off-road capabilities.
How do I soften my Jeep Wrangler?
Adding some air to your bike can make the ride much smoother and more breathable. Then make a change until the feeling is satisfied. These won’t
How long do shocks last Jeep JK?
While you cannot determine whether to replace shocks in an optimal order, it is wise to be aware of the possible replacement of shocks around 60 km/mile. replace an impressive shock but a few of us run too much air into the tires. Even with the best shock a lot of braking air can cause stiffer rides.
How often should you change shocks on a Jeep Wrangler?
Strut or shock may require replacement anywhere in the range of 50k – 100km. Whenever struts or shocks leak or break they need replacing immediately.
Conclusion
We hope this review has given you the much-needed insights into buying the best shocks for Jeep JK no lift. The shocks we have reviewed are some of the best shock models you can find in the market.
These are reliable and offer the best ride quality without the need to lift your vehicle. However, if you still find difficulty in choosing the best for these 5 best shocks, then the buying guide can come in handy to help you make the best decision for your Jeep JK.
