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Best Shocks for Chevrolet Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Avalanche, and Yukon-Buying Guide 2022

best shocks for chevrolet suburban 1500, tahoe, avalanche, and yukon

You may be intimidated and daunted by the many new shock absorber brands that appear on the market each year. That’s why choosing the correct shock absorbers for your beloved Chevy truck might be confusing.

You certainly do not want to be faced with yet another additional expenditure at this time of financial difficulty! Hence, to encounter a collision due to a failure of cheap and unreliable components.

However, I am convinced that you will get value from this post about the best shocks for Chevrolet Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Avalanche, or Yukon due to my experience in the suspension field. I will review each of these brand models thoroughly, so you can easily decide which one suits your needs.

Without any further ado, let’s get started!

Image PreviewProduct NameQuick Links
Bilstein Front & Rear B6 4600 Gas Pressure Shock Absorbers 
(Top Choice)
Check Price On Amazon
Rancho RS5000X RS55262 Shock Absorber
(Runner-Up)
Check Price On Amazon
ACDelco Advantage 520-117 Gas Charged Shock Absorber
(Best Price)
Check Price On Amazon

Best Shocks for Chevrolet Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Avalanche, and Yukon

1. Bilstein Front & Rear B6 4600 Gas Pressure Shock Absorbers 

Whether you like or dislike the blue and yellow trademark colors, the Bilstein B6 4600 Series is and has been at the top of the aftermarket suspension for many years.

The Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers are specially designed to help your truck, van, or SUV achieve maximum ride performance and handling while maintaining a smooth ride. Besides that, plenty of people has witnessed how good of a shock they are for towing! Let’s also not forget that they are an exceptional upgrade if you occasionally hit the trails; it simply makes your off-roading journey a lot more pleasurable!

Another great thing about this unit is that 99.9% of the time, is intended to be a factory ride replacement. As a matter of fact, it is only available for vehicles without any lift kits installed. If you like to get your vehicle to the closest factory-ride feel, you definitely won’t go wrong with this particular model.

Bilstein’s monotube gas-pressure technology is one of the best in the automotive industry. That said, when temperatures and loads rise, this system keeps the oil in the shock absorber under pressure, which prevents it from foaming. Even when the system is put under stress, complete damping power is sustained.

Last but not least, a lifetime warranty is included. Bilstein warrants against manufacturing and material flaws for the life of the vehicle in which the shocks are installed.

It’s not a coincidence for sure that I have listed these best shock absorbers at the top of my list. For a reasonable price, you get great value.

Pros
  • Monotube gas-pressurized shock absorber.
  • Factory-ride feel replacement.
  • Exceptional engineering technology and design.
  • Reputable brand.
  • Recommended for off-road and heavy-duty usage.
  • Lifetime Warranty.
Cons
  • They come uncompressed. You might need a jack.

Vehicle Fitment:

  • 2000-2006 Suburban 1500
  • 2000-2006 Tahoe
  • 2000-2006 Yukon
  • 2000-2006 Yukon XL 1500
  • Avalanche 2002-2006 

2. Bilstein (24-186643) 5100 Series Shock Absorber,Silver

The Bilstein 5100 Series is zinc-plated, instead of painted like the previous model I talked about. It is definitely an outstanding shock absorber, and surprisingly it is made in America! How cool is that? Along with that, it is a new model that has yet to conquer the market. 

Those of you who have aftermarket kits and a lot of aftermarket support will usually be able to use these shock absorbers on your vehicle.

The 5100’s are valved to be slightly firmer when compared to the 4600 series. So, if you’re thinking about buying these to upgrade your vehicle, and you don’t want to go with the OEM, instead of with an aftermarket replacement, these are the right ones for you!

Like its older brother, it features a monotube gas-pressurized technology specially designed to perform outrageously well in any given driving situation. 

The thing that fascinates me the most is that this model is compatible with a comprehensive range of vehicle models. The staff from Bilstein have done this really wisely, so it catches a broader consumer range.

Overall, a well-built unit that is more than capable of providing you with the pleasure for which it was designed! Besides that, it is easy to install the Bilstein 5100, 24-186643.

Pros
  • Zinc-plated.
  • Monotube gas-pressurized technology.
  • Highly reputable brand.
  • Lifetime warranty.
  • It’s a good buy for the money.
Cons
  • None!

Vehicle Fitment:

  • 2000-2006 Suburban 
  • 2000-2006 Tahoe 
  • 2000-2006 Yukon 
  • 2002-2006 Avalanche

3. Gabriel 43180 Rear Load Carrier

Gabriel is one of the first manufacturers of modern shock absorbers, leading the suspension market with innovative and high-quality performance parts.

This model of shock absorber from Gabriel, the 43180 Load Carrier, is specially designed to help you with heavy-duty and carry an extra load. As a matter of fact, even when towing a trailer, the whole experience is significantly different due to the stability they provide in the rear of your truck. At the same time, it is affordable. 

Load capacity is 500 lbs. per pair for variable-rate rear coil springs. Keep in mind that you should not exceed the GVWR of the vehicle (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). 

Let’s not forget that with the installation of the Gabriel shock absorbers, you will immediately notice a 1/2 “to 3/4” ride height increase

Pros
  • Long-lasting material.
  • Recommended for heavy-duty usage.
  • Easy installation.
  • They raise your truck by almost an inch.
Cons
  • The ride feels stiffer once you install these.

Vehicle Fitment:

  • 1992-1999 Suburban 
  • 1995-2000 Tahoe 
  • 1992-1999 Yukon 

4. Monroe 58639 Monroe Load Adjust Shock Absorbers

Position-sensitive damping (PSD) and application-engineered valving, as well as heavy-gauge calibrated springs, help these shocks retain their ride height even when exposed to an extra 1200 lbs of weight

The Monroe 58639 Load Adjust shocks are an excellent solution for light trucks and even better for towing a trailer

Every shock absorber unit that strives to provide performance at a maximum level probably has a monotube gas-pressurized build and a fully displaced valving system, which this exact model does. It also contains all-weather fluid, which reduces friction and enables a perfectly smooth ride without any difficulties adapting to brutal road conditions.

Worldwide customers are impressed with the quality of Monroe shocks. Look no further if you are dedicated to improving the ride quality of your truck!

Pros
  • The latest technology built by Monroe.
  • High-quality and long-lasting materials.
  • Easy to install.
Cons
  • It is not recommended for constantly carrying heavy loads and towing.

Vehicle Fitment:

  • 2000-2006 Suburban 
  • 2000-2006 Tahoe 
  • 2000-2006 Yukon 

5. Rancho RS5000X RS55262 Shock Absorber

Rancho is simply one of the brands on this list of the best shock absorbers for your Chevy that does not need any introduction itself. It’s a pretty recognized brand, with 70+ years of experience in the suspension aftermarket space.

Rancho RS5000X RS55262 features a twin-tube shock absorber technology suitable for the front of your vehicle. Only lifted trucks with a 2.5″ or above are able of using Rancho’s new and revolutionary shock.

The experts at Rancho developed a patented method that will improve your vehicle’s overall handling and performance, on and off-road.

Pros
  • Sintered iron piston rod.
  • Low-friction, self-lubricating seal for long-lasting performance.
  • It enhances handling and steering performance.
  • It’s a good buy for the money.
Cons
  • Might be too bouncy for some customers.

Vehicle Fitment:

  • 2002-2013 Avalanche 
  • 2000-2018 Suburban  
  • 2000-2017 Tahoe 
  • 2000-2017 Yukon 

Also read:

6. Gabriel 49235 Hijacker

Shock absorber design and technology have been constantly reinvented by Gabriel, who has gained a reputation for innovation. It’s the only way you can continue to meet and surpass consumers’ expectations for years to come.

The HiJackers 49235 by Gabriel can be adapted and re-adjusted to meet your towing and hauling demands as needed. When you are towing a travel trailer, make sure the HiJackers are inflated to the proper pressure. When done, all you have to do is let out a little air to bring the car back to normal.

Some of the must-have features I would like to mention are the chrome-plated piston rod construction and the deluxe wiper seal to provide a positive seal and long-lasting performance as per your needs.

Last but not least, they are custom-sized for a proper fit without any special tools required to perform the replacement all by yourself.

Pros
  • Up to 1,100 pounds of leveling capacity per pair.
  • It helps to improve handling and reduce the risk of bottoming out.
  • Very easy to inflate them at any service station or with an air compressor at home.
  • It is ideal for temporarily towing and carrying heavy loads.
Cons
  • Some customers complained of missing hardware when their package arrived.

2000 – 06 Suburban 1500

2000 – 06 Tahoe

Vehicle Fitment:

  • 2002-2014 Avalanche 1500 (RWD; w/Air Suspension)
  • 2000-2014 Suburban 1500 (RWD; w/Air Suspension)
  • 2000-2014 Tahoe (RWD; w/Air Suspension)
  • 2000-2014 Yukon (RWD; w/Air Suspension)

7. ACDelco Specialty 504-554 Rear Air Lift Shock Absorber

The ACDelco Rear Air Shocks provide a convenient, low-cost alternative and are designed to maintain the ride height of your vehicle up to 1,100 lbs. per pair. 

These high-performance shocks feature an adjustable air pressure valve for easy adjustment of the vehicle’s ride height and a chrome piston rod for corrosion resistance

Another great feature of the 504-554 ACDelco Rear Lift shock is that it offers proper seal lubrication on the piston rod shaft and end cap seals, which greatly reduces the wear and tear of the shock absorber seals.

ACDelco’s Heavy-Duty Rear Air Shock Absorbers are specially designed to help level your vehicle, increase its stability and improve its handling. This product is tested to ensure that it fits the intended vehicles and applications.

The GVWR of the vehicle must not be exceeded. The payload is not improved by this product.

Pros
  • Keep the rear of your truck up while towing.
  • Affordable replacement.
  • Maintains ride height up to 1.100 lbs per pair.
  • High-quality materials.
Cons
  • It might be noisy when running over road bumps.

Vehicle Fitment:

  • 2002-2013 Avalanche 
  • 2000-2011 Suburban 
  • 2000-2011 Tahoe 
  • 2000-2011 Yukon 

8. ACDelco Advantage 520-117 Gas Charged Front Shock Absorber

Another shock from ACDelco, this time the Advantage 520-117 model.

It features twin-tube gas premium technology suitable for passenger cars, vans, SUVs, and light-duty trucks. That means that carrying heavy loads with these shock absorbers is not recommended, so bear that in mind!

The super-finished chrome piston rod resists corrosion, resulting in a constant wear surface and fewer leak paths.

The smoother surface of a drawn over mandrel (DOM) pressure cylinder allows for easier circulation of the air inside while minimizing resistance and extending service life.

Pros
  • A chrome-finished piston rod.
  • Drawn-over mandrel pressure cylinder.
  • A very long history of automotive suspension parts.
  • Twin-tube gas-pressurized premium shocks.
  • It is a great value for the price you pay.
Cons
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty usage.

Vehicle Fitment:

  • 2002-2006 Avalanche 
  • 2000-2006 Suburban 
  • 2000-2006 Tahoe 
  • 2000-2006 Yukon 

9. APDTY 133936 Rear Air Suspension Air Shock Set

The APDTY 133936 Rear Air Suspension Air Shock Set-Rear Left & Right Included is a high-quality replacement for your vehicle’s original parts, and significantly improves the handling of your car. This suspension kit comes with two rear air shocks that make your ride more comfortable and stable.

By purchasing these units, you will definitely not break the bank. However, you are likely to find great pleasure in the everyday driving experience.

Just bear in mind that these are not as heavy-duty as some of the other options listed in this list of the best shocks for your Chevy truck.

Pros
  • Budget-friendly.
  • It improves handling and steering control.
Cons
  • Not for heavy-duty.
  • Only a 30-day warranty.

Final Thoughts

I hope you learned something on how to choose the best shock absorbers for the Chevy Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Avalanche, or Yukon. After a lot of thorough research and observation, I concluded that there are many brilliant products on the market. However, for some automobile models, one may operate better than the other.

Before purchasing, you should consider the purpose of your truck as well. If you are towing and carrying heavy loads, get a robust and heavy-duty-built model like the Bilstein 4600 Series. This is my warm recommendation and my top choice!

Please leave a comment if you’ve had any experience with any of the above-mentioned models, good or bad. Thanks for reading!

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