How to Choose Shocks for a Car
The right shock for a vehicle depends on its intended use. Off-road trucks that are lifted and fitted with beefy tires require a high-performance gas-pressurized shock, or even two or more on one wheel. Smaller cars usually require the basic dampening function of a shock; these shocks don't need to be expensive to perform adequately. The average shopper can select the right shock for her car in about 20 minutes.
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Instructions
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Determine the use for the vehicle, and what type of ride dampening would be best. Cars that see a lot of highway use need stability for high speeds, while a rock-crawling Jeep would require a heavy-duty coil-over shock absorber. Smaller cars that require sharp cornering benefit from stiff, gas-pressurized units. Trucks that trailer heavy loads would use the coil-overs, or even multiple shocks, to dampen the loaded springs over rough terrain.
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Select a style. While the more expensive shocks might look attractive, they may not be right for the vehicle. A simple set of shock boots, installed onto the shock before the shocks are put onto the car, gives a cheap shock a performance look. The style can be color-matched to the car, or even fully chromed. Beware of chrome, though, as shocks are quite heat-sensitive and chrome does not dissipate heat well.
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Choose any special equipment with the shock, such as air-adjustable types, or dual-piston versions. The construction of a given shock is generally not as important as its purpose. Harsh environmental conditions can destroy a very expensive shock just as easily as a cheap one, so if the vehicle is always on pavement then opt for cheaper shocks when purchasing the set. A mid-priced unit usually gives adequate performance but won't break the bank.
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Choice will be limited by size, so use the auto parts store's guide for the size required for the vehicle, then see what they have available. Once you find a model that suits all of the above needs, don't be afraid to shop around; be wary of dealing with online sources such as eBay, as many shocks sold online are "reconditioned" or returned products.
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Search online for reviews on shock units and manufacturers before buying. The red-hot, coil-over, expensive model could be a lousy unit, and the cheapest model in the store might be rebadged top-notch equipment. The only way to find out is to research.
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Tips & Warnings
Coil-over shocks must clear the suspension components when installed.
Use extreme caution when working underneath a vehicle.
