5 Best Shocks For GMC Sierra 1500

If you own a GMC Sierra 1500, you would have definitely noticed how smooth it runs on roads. It’s got high-performance levels, minimal sound levels, and vibration. Of course, all these features are the default when you’re driving your vehicle on the road with the best shocks for GMC Sierra 1500. 

However, if you’ve driven your GMC on other terrains, you would have realized that the ride is a little bumpy. That might be the case if you’ve removed your shock absorbers.

And if you don’t have one, you might want to purchase a good one today. However, there are several manufacturers offering shocks for vehicles, including Sensen, Blistein, Detroit and so on. Our top recommendation for you is the Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers. 

This shock absorber stands as one of the best in the market today for a variety of reasons. Not only is this one the highest-rated shock absorbers, but it is also one of the best-performing ones. You can be sure to have a smoother, safer ride on all terrains by installing this in your GMC Sierra 1500.

In this article, you will find out about the top 5 best shocks for GMC Sierra 1500 in 2021.

Without further ado, let’s get into it!

Best Choice

4.6/5

Rough Country 2.5" Leveling Kit

Premium Choice

4.6/5

Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers

Best in Budget

4.6/5

Skyjacker B8517 Black MAX Shock Absorber with Black Boot

Top 5 Shocks for GMC Sierra 1500

A good shock absorber is an essential part to any vehicle. It helps in giving you a smooth ride even when you are driving on a bumpy road. However, when it comes to the classy GMC Sierra 1500, not all shock absorbers will be a good fit. 

If you do a quick search on the market today, you’ll find that there are a lot of different types of shock absorbers available today. There are different brands, styles, features, and they all come at different prices. That is sure to leave anyone in a sticky situation!

But don’t worry! If you’re reading this article now, you are probably looking to find the reviews of some of the best shocks today. And that’s exactly what you’ll find here!

After doing a lot of research and analysis, we’ve listed below the top 5 best shocks for your GMC Sierra 1500, along with their complete reviews!

1. Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers

Pros

  • Comes with a monotube technology that allows easy movement of the piston
  • Monotubes comes with a chromium coating that gives longevity to the shocks
  • Less friction
  • Compatible with the “Ride Control” feature
  • It is a perfect fit for 1996-2006 versions of the GMC Sierra 1500
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty

Cons

  • The rear shocks do not last as long as the front shocks

Our hero selection in this article is the Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers. One of the most amazing features of this model is its ease of usage. When compared to the other models, you’ll also notice that this one is extremely easy to install. Thanks to the simple user instructions, you don’t have to be a pro to get the installation right.

Upon first glance, this model may seem like a standard set of shock absorbers. However, it is more than just a normal set. It comes power-packed with a lot of features to give you a smooth ride. 

This shock absorber stands at a length of 22.09 and 13.59 inches that you can collapse to store as required. This length is perfect for helping the monotubes of this model capture your vehicle’s speed and reduce it before it reaches the interior part of your car. 

Moreover, these monotubes are designed to withstand wear and tear, thanks to the special exterior coating made of chromium. 

Also, if you love to customize your car, you’ll be pleased to know that this shock absorber is suitable for use with the “Ride Control” feature. That will allow you to make modifications and customize your vehicle as you like. 

Additionally, these shock absorbers are a great fit for a variety of different trucks. It can be easily installed for people who own the 1999 version to the 2006 version of the GMC Sierra 1500.

Moreover, the Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers also come with a lifetime warranty that you can fall back on whenever you face trouble. 

Features

  • Monotube technology
  • Comes with chromium coating for longevity
  • It can work well with the “Ride Control” feature
  • Dimensions: 30 × 10 × 10 inches
  • Lifetime warranty included

Overall, this shock absorber has proven to be a worthy investment because of the incredible features and pricing. It can be easily installed even if you are not a professional, thanks to the simple design with clear instructions. 

Additionally, it also comes with a lifetime warranty that you can use in case you have any issues.

2. Rough Country 2.5" Leveling Kit

Pros

  • Designed to be a lifted shock absorber
  • They can be adjusted easily 
  • Made suitable for all kinds of terrains
  • The shocks are nitrogen-charged to give you a smooth, bump-free driving experience
  • Durable design that has a long life
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • Torsion keys may add pressure to the car’s axels

Finding a shock absorber that perfectly fits your GMC Sierra 1500 can be a difficult task. It certainly requires a technician’s eye for detail to select the ideal fit. However, with the Rough Country 2.5″ Leveling Kit, all you need to do is simply order them, sit back and relax!

It has a very impressive rating of 4.7/5 stars and has over 900 customer reviews! 

These shock absorbers can be adjusted and used up to 1 inch. Hence, it allows you to easily attach it to your Sierra by using a lift that goes up to 3 inches. Usually, these kinds of flexibility in shock absorbers come at a high price that makes you think twice. However, the Rough Country 2.5″ Leveling Kit comes at an extremely affordable price.

This shock absorber is a type of a lifted shock. Often, these shocks are made to be a suitable fit for only driving on smooth roads or rough terrains. However, this model is designed to give you a smooth ride irrespective of the terrain you are driving on!

That is because the shock absorbers are charged with nitrogen to give you a super reliable and safe driving experience. It is an extremely rare feature, especially when it comes to lifted shocks.

The only downside of the Rough Country 2.5″ Leveling Kit is their torsion keys. Many users have found that the torsion keys seem to add a huge amount of pressure on the car’s axles by using this shock absorber. This problem may not occur with all users; however, it is still safe to keep an eye out for this.

Features

  • Compatible for both on and off-road use
  • Reliable forged torsion keys
  • Charged with nitrogen for durability
  • Dimensions: 24.75 × 13.5 × 6.75 inches
  • Comes with a 3-year warranty

To sum up, on the Rough Country 2.5″ Leveling Kit, we can surely say that it is a bang for your buck. It comes with some of the best features, and it all comes at a fair price. The positive reviews speak for themselves!

3. Skyjacker B8517 Black MAX Shock Absorber with Black Boot

Pros

  • Comes with unique features
  • Foam-cell technology to give you a bump-free experience
  • Made of durable material and has a sturdy build
  • Comes with 360-degree arc welded end mounts and a 180-degree directional mount
  • Compression head and DOM improve the quality
  • Comes at an extremely affordable price

Cons

  • It is sold only in individual packs

Here is another one of the most affordable yet high-performing shock absorbers in the market today. Compared to the other shocks in our article, the Skyjacker B8517 Black MAX Shock Absorber with Black Boot is probably the most affordable of them all. But don’t let that fool you!

Despite the affordable price, this model comes with a wide set of unique features that help show us the importance of a good shock absorber. For example, the foam-cell technology. 

What does it do? This advanced technology helps in removing any excess air from within the shock absorbers. That results in improving the expansion of the oil inside during its compression. And it can do both at the same time! Thereby making this technology a type of a dual-threat. 

When you take a close look at the design and build of this shock absorber, you will notice the amount of effort and detail that went into making it. The manufacturer has integrated two mounts to make the shock absorber more durable: the 360-degree arc welded end mounts and the 180-degree directional mount. 

They are extremely durable, and you can rely on them in a high-pressure situation. 

Additionally, this also comes with a compression head and tubing for DOM purposes that play a vital role in the longevity of this shock. These two features, in particular, make the Skyjacker B8517 Black MAX Shock Absorber with Black Boot last a long time. That makes them a worthy investment. 

And the best part is that you can get all this at an extremely affordable price. That is what makes a real favorite for the people. 

However, unlike the other shock absorbers, this too has its downsides. And these shocks are sold only in individual packs. Nevertheless, this is not a huge deal-breaker for most people. 

Features

  • Manufactured with the foam-cell technology
  • 360-degree arc welded end mounts and the 180-degree directional mount
  • Twin tube design and construction
  • High fluid capacity to avoid friction
  • Dimensions: 24.3 × 3.2 × 3.1 inches

The Skyjacker B8517 Black MAX Shock Absorber with Black Boot may be one of our list’s most expensive shock absorbers. However, it comes packed with quality features! It can be easily installed as well, thanks to the simple build it has. The only downfall is that they are sold in individual packs.

4. Rancho RS999901 QuickLift Loaded Strut

Pros

  • Comes with a twin tube that helps to reduce the friction
  • Piston rods can be compressed and extended out as required
  • Comes with a tuning technology 
  • The nitro-carb rod protects the model from rust and corrosion
  • The graphite and fluon inside the piston helps in maintaining the tires
  • Comes with a protective liquid metal finish
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • It might be a little pricey

The Rancho RS999901 QuickLift Loaded Strut is one of those shock absorbers that offer you ultimate performance. You can be sure to experience a drive free of any bumps or struts by installing this to your GMC Sierra 1500.

Let’s get into the details of this model. The internal design features a twin tube and a pre-assembled coil spring. This feature eliminates the need for a rake, and it can easily clear 35 inches of height. 

This twin tube also helps in reducing friction and gives a cooler working state. 

Additionally, this model also has compressed piston rods that can be extended as required. Moreover, when you combine this with the tuning technology to adjust to 9 different positions, your car will get a nice, sleek look to it. 

The Rancho RS999901 QuickLift Loaded Strut also comes with a nitro-carb rod that helps in making the shock more resistant to corrosion. 

Additionally, the piston is filled with graphite and banded with fluon. That makes the drive extra smooth and keeps the tires in good condition.

It comes coated with a liquid metal finish that contributes to the overall look and feel of this shock to top it all off. 

Features

  • Simple but effective design
  • Comes with the levels front suspension; does not require a rake
  • Easily clears 35 inches of tire height
  • Comes with the 9 position tuning technology
  • Liquid metal protective finish
  • Dimensions: 26.89 × 9.63 × 9.68 inches
  • Easy to install

When you purchase and install the Rancho RS999901 QuickLift Loaded Strut, you can be guaranteed to experience a smooth ride when you’re on the wheel. The highlight of this model is its easy installation. Most of the tricky elements are already pre-assembled. So, all you’ve got to do is simply attach it to your truck!

5. Monroe 58639 Monroe Load Adjust Shock Absorbers

Pros

  • Designed to withstand the wear and tear of rough roads
  • Made of sturdy steel metal
  • Comes with a durable, reliable design
  • Comes with a set of displaced valves to give more control
  • Despite the weather conditions, you can use it on all terrains.
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • It might not be suitable for all models

Last but certainly not least, we have the Monroe 58639 Monroe Load Adjust Shock Absorbers. 

The highlight feature of this shock absorber is the fact that it can compress to 15 inches in length. However, this should not be underestimated! Because even in this state, they are fully capable of working under extreme pressures. That makes this shock absorber an extremely reliable one. 

Additionally, the design and build of this model are made of high-quality, heavy-duty stainless steel material. Hence, this model is also one of the most durable shocks available in the market today.

Moreover, the Monroe 58639 Monroe Load Adjust Shock Absorbers also come with a pair of displaced valves that can help give the tires more grip. That helps in handling different types of terrains easily. 

They are also designed for safe use despite the weather. Hence, you can be confident and have a smooth, bump-free ride. 

Features

  • Designed to reduce lagging
  • Suitable for on and off-road driving
  • Built to function well even in extreme weather conditions
  • Comes with displaced valves that give the tires more grip
  • Dimensions: 29.5 × 7.3 × 3.5 inches

Overall, the Monroe 58639 Monroe Load Adjust Shock Absorbers is a model that is designed for ultimate performance. The stand-out feature of this model is its ability to handle the wear and tear of different terrains. Not only that, but it can also handle extreme climatic conditions! And you can get all this at an affordable price.

What Must You Look for While Buying a Good Quality Shock Absorber for Your Truck?

A shock absorber is an essential component in a truck. As the name suggests, they help in absorbing any kind of shocks that your vehicle takes. Additionally, it also helps in giving a ride that is smoother and safer on harsh terrains. 

By installing a good shock absorber in your truck, you won’t have to hit your head against the roof of your truck every time you run over a pothole.  

If you’ve been looking for a shock absorber for your GMC Sierra 1500, you may have noticed that there are plenty of available options. Different brands offer different features at different prices. Hence, finding a good shock might be a little overwhelming. 

Not to worry, we are here to make this process a little easier for you. How? We’ve created a little, handy buyer’s guide that will help you look for the perfect type of shock for your truck. That way, you’ll find the perfect fit for your GMC Sierra 1500 in no time!

The Twin-Tube Shock

This type of shock absorber has two different tubes; one is located inside and the other on the outside. You can find the piston inside the internal tube and find that the external tube has some air and certain fluids. 

If you are someone who takes your truck out for adventures frequently, you need to check your piston’s diameter (also known as “bore”).

Usually, shock absorbers for trucks have a large bore. That helps the spring to act faster in the case of a high-pressure situation. 

The Gas Charged Twin-Tube Shocks 

One of the most common problems that truck drivers face with the previous type of shock absorber is foam. That happens when the air and the fluid mix together. It can cause problems with compression and dampening.

However, a gas-charged shock absorbed will help solve this issue for you by replacing the air in the piston with nitrogen.

The Monotube Shock

As the name suggests, this shock absorber has only one tube instead of two (unlike the twin-tube shock). However, this type also comes with two pistons. 

While one of the two pistons works similarly to the twin-tube shock, the other one is a little different. This one helps in separating the nitrogen from the fluid. Hence, you can be sure that there will be no foaming.

Additionally, this is also mounted differently. Compared to the other types, you can mount this model in an upside-down fashion that helps give a smoother, cooler operation.

The Reservoir Shock Absorbers

This type of shock comes with a primary body filled completely with liquid. Additionally, it comes with a “reservoir” tank that also helps to hold and control the nitrogen gas. 

When the piston gets compressed, this fluid in the primary body is pushed against the nitrogen gas in the reservoir tank. That helps in dampening the movement of the truck by controlling the springs.

The Coil-Over Shock Absorbers

In this type, you can see a spring coil wrapped around the main shock body.  The spring helps in effectively controlling the weight of the truck and the movement of the suspension system

Moreover, they also come with the feature of adjustability. Hence, you can easily adjust it as per the height of the truck.

Common FAQ About Shock Absorbers

Similar to every other contraption in a truck, people frequently have questions about their shock absorber. 

In this section, we will look at some of the most commonly asked questions about shock absorbers and give you the answers. 

How do I choose the perfect pair of shock absorbers for my vehicle?

It solely depends on what type of shock absorber you prefer for your truck. As mentioned earlier, there are a variety of different types of shock absorbers. Moreover, each of these types has different features. 

Ask yourself what the purpose of getting a new shock absorber is. Some tend to purchase a good shock for improved driving performance. On the other hand, some buy this to replace an old shock. 

Once you answer these questions, you will have more clarity. Therefore, you will also be able to choose one easier. 

However, you need to keep in mind that not all shock absorbers designed for other terrains will not do well on a long drive on smooth roads. 

Hence, check the usage of the shock absorber before you purchase it. 

When is a good time to have my shock absorbers replaced?

Just like every other component of a truck, the shock absorber also needs to be replaced as time goes on. However, it depends on the road conditions, the weight of the load on the trucks, etc. 

One thing you can do is to regularly keep a check on the condition of the shock absorber. Keep an eye out for tell-tale signs like instability, improper braking and accelerating functions, and loud thuds. 

When you start to experience either one or more of these signs, it may indicate checking and replacing your shock absorber. 

How do I know which is the perfect size shock absorber for my vehicle?

Most people usually purchase a shock absorber with similar features and specifications to their old one. 

If that’s the case, we would recommend looking through the market and checking the specifications of each model. Find the one that has similar specifications to the old shock absorber. This way, you can easily find the perfect fit for your truck. 

However, if you plan to upgrade from your old shock absorber, be sure to check the compatibility of the model. Most models usually have a list of vehicles that they are suitable for. It helps in making your job easier.

Final Thoughts

A shock absorber plays an extremely important role when it comes to the driving aspect of the truck. And as you can see, there are plenty of options available in the market today. Each and every model comes with its own set of features and prices. Moreover, check out other reviews of shocks for Ram 1500 and shocks for Ford Ranger.

Buying a good quality shock absorber can prove to be a worthy investment in the long run. That’s why we’ve created this list of the top 5 best shocks for GMC Sierra 1500. We hope this list has helped you find your desired shock at an affordable price. Safe driving, folks!

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