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Best Struts for Ford Explorer-Buying Guide 2022

best struts for Ford Explorer

A car’s struts are one of its most important parts, especially if you constantly put a lot of stress on your vehicle. Whether you’re taking your Ford Explorer on a bumpy off-road adventure, towing, or hauling, it’s their job to keep your vehicle stable on the ground.

Having said that, we frequently overlook or fail to detect minor signs and symptoms of worn-out struts. However, this is a very bad thing in the long run, and you should definitely consider scheduling a routine maintenance check-up or simply doing that by yourself.

In case your struts are quite shabby, you might ask, which model and brand would be the perfect aftermarket strut replacement for my car?

Worry not, as I am here to waste no more of your precious time and give you a full list of the best struts for the Ford Explorer at your disposal! Accordingly, you can decide for yourself what is best for your wallet and driving habits.

Image PreviewProduct NameQuick Links
Monroe 172730 Quick Complete Strut Assembly
(Top Choice)
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SENSEN 10007-FS-SS Front Complete Strut Assembly Compatible with 2002-2003 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer
(Runner-Up)
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Unity Automotive 15060 Rear Complete Strut Assembly 2002-2005 Ford Explorer
(Best Price)
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Best Struts for Ford Explorer

1. Monroe 172730 Quick Complete Strut Assembly

Monroe Quick Complete Strut Assembly is a complete strut assembly that is fully assembled, pre-greased, and ready for installation. It features an innovative bearing plate design that allows for more precise steering as well as longer wear. Also increases overall steering smoothness.

The coil spring is manufactured from high-quality U.S. steel and is specially made to withstand the vehicle’s weight and ensure a consistent ride height. Also, each spring goes through a shower of powder coat or paint that helps with corrosion.

The features that this product provides are endless! Its complete strut assembly would not be “complete” without a durable strut boot kit that protects the strut rod and seal from dirt and debris.

Installation is something you should also consider when buying the best struts for your Ford Explorer, and guess what, the Monroe 172730 Quick Complete Strut Assembly can be put on your vehicle in no time! 

With little to no effort and no requirement for any special tools, you can conveniently do the job within an hour or two!

It is no coincidence that I have chosen this product to be first on my list.

Pros
  • A quality upper spring does not transmit the noise or vibration to the chassis.
  • OE-style replacement.
  • Quality materials.
  • Reputable brand.
Cons
  • A bit pricey.

2. Unity Automotive 15060 Rear Complete Strut Assembly 2002-2005 Ford Explorer

Unity Automotive has more than 50 years of experience manufacturing parts in the aftermarket automotive industry. The company offers superior quality, specializing in making rock-solid auto parts that withstand the test of time. 

With a true understanding of the marketplace, Unity Automotive has left a mark in the aftermarket suspension niche. This product, the 15060 Unity Automotive Rear Complete Strut Assembly, is designed to make your car ride like it did when it was new.

Just as with the previous contender on this list of the best struts for the Ford Explorer, installation is a breeze and can be done in your home garage without the need for any expensive tools.

This is a very affordable option for anyone who owns a Ford Explorer between the years of 2002 and 2005. Without breaking the bank, you are going to be amazed at how much of a big difference you will experience.

Pros
  • Pre-assembled unit.
  • Easy installation.
  • It’s quite an affordable option.
Cons
  • I have found no drawbacks to this product.

3. Monroe MA776 Max-Air Adjust Shock Absorber

You’re in for a treat with this set of Monroe Shocks, which are outstanding. I’ve written about their products before, and each time I’m amazed by their new technology.

It’s best to go for the MA776 if you want to see a significant improvement in your towing and hauling performance.

What’s the main reason why I say that? Well, you can inflate or deflate the air chamber to a maximum of 150 PSI. The pressure may be adjusted to suit your needs.

This pair of shocks are capable of maintaining up to 1200 pounds of additional weight on them, which is quite astonishing!

When it comes to manufacturing long-lasting aftermarket suspension products, Monroe is the best in the business. This one is designed to last, according to the manufacturer. In order to maintain constant performance, the piston rod has been reinforced.

Also, to decrease friction and resistance, the air sleeve has been greased.

It’s made to withstand a wide range of temperatures. It doesn’t matter whether it’s freezing outside or extremely hot, the fluid will function flawlessly with minimum friction.

Another one of Monroe’s pearls. If you want to make a drastic change in your ride, you should give these a shot and see for yourself!

Pros
  • Mostly used for towing and hauling (can hold up to 1200 lbs of additional weight).
  • All-weather fluid that can withstand drastic changes in temperature and keep friction low.
  • Excellent value for the price.
  • Easy installation.
  • Customer service from the seller is prompt and helpful.
Cons
  • Some customers complained that this product does not fit on the original air pump of their Ford Explorer.

4. SENSEN 10007-FS-SS Front Complete Strut Assembly Compatible with 2002-2003 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer

Automotive parts manufacturer Sensen is a well-known brand name that provides high-quality components at a reasonable price point.

OE manufacturers have relied on Sensen since the company’s establishment in 1985 to provide them with high-quality shock absorbers and struts. 

It is, without a doubt, a reputable brand that you can rely on.

Premium components, such as Japanese NOK seals and a chrome-hardened piston rod made of high-quality carbon steel, are used in the 10007-FS-SS Sensen assembly. 

Special rubber formulations make up the boot kit, as well as OE quality coil springs to maintain the level of the vehicle.

Last but not least, the strut mounts and bearings are tested in real-world driving circumstances to ensure that the noise and vibrations do not reach the chassis.

Not only will this product restore factory ride comfort, but it will also help with tire wear problems.

Overall, after reading a couple of really positive comments from happy customers that actually tested this masterpiece, it is safe to say that the 10007-FS-SS Sensen model secures a tight fourth position in this buying guide of the best struts for Ford Explorer on the market!

Pros
  • It’s quite an affordable option.
  • Strut rod with a chrome hardened finish composed of high-quality carbon steel.
  • Limited lifetime warranty.
  • Restores vehicle height and comfort.
  • Pre-assembled ensures an easy and fast installation.
Cons
  • None that I am aware of!

5. KYB 335621 Excel-G Gas Strut, Black

The KYB Excel-G is a nitrogen-gas-charged twin-tube design with worldwide OEM grade components that is only usable if you have a Ford Explorer between the years of 2011 and 2012.

This product uses high-quality components to restore the vehicle’s original handling and stability

Having said that, with the two multi-stage valves working together to improve control in virtually any situation, the KYB Excel-G is a great option in terms of performance.

The engineers from KYB have constructed a product that uses a seamlessly working cylinder with a teflon coated band that ensures a positive seal without the risk of oil leakage.

I’ll finish this article with this OE best strut replacement for your beloved Ford Explorer. Even this is the last item, it certainly does not mean that it is worse than all the others on this list when it comes to performance ability and durability.

However, the KYB 335621 Excel-G Gas Strut is highly recommended by plenty of suspension experts worldwide as a top-choice aftermarket strut replacement.

Pros
  • High-quality and durable triple chrome plated piston rod and multi-lip oil seals.
  • Recommended premium OE replacement for this particular vehicle model.
  • Restores original ride height and enhances steering handling.
  • The latest KYB Excel-G technology puts emphasis on performance.
Cons
  • You have to purchase coil springs, strut mounts, strut bearings, and all the other hardware separately if you would like to replace a complete strut assembly.

Conclusion

So there you have it, boys and girls! These are my top picks for the best struts for the Ford Explorer.

Always keep your vehicle in tip-top shape and never risk your safety. Investing in high-quality aftermarket struts will actually save you from having to pay a visit to your local mechanic very often.

Don’t get me wrong, you should have the habit of doing routine maintenance check-ups, but a durable aftermarket strut will make you forget when you last replaced it. Thus, the overall quality and comfort will be on another level.

Thanks for reading!

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