9 Best Shocks For GMC Sierra 1500 Reviews

I know how hectic it can be to search for the best shocks for GMC Sierra 1500. The internet is plagued with various recommendations that have subpar performance.

Some websites even state the wrong shocks, which may lead to confusion and a chance that you will buy the wrong ones for your vehicle.

Well, worry no more as I have compiled the most sought-after list that contains only the top quality products for your truck that will transform the way you drive your vehicle.

All of them are guaranteed to provide you with top of the line control and handling that is incomparable with the stock ones. So, without any further ado, let’s get started!

9 Top Rated GMC Sierra 1500 Replacement Shocks Comparisons

IMAGE	PRODUCT	EDITOR'S RATING	PRICE
TOP PICK	Bilstein 5100 Shock Absorbers	9.7	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers	9.5	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Rancho RS55265 Shock Absorber	9.1	CHECK ON AMAZON
	KYB MonoMax 565102 Shock Absorber	8.8	CHECK ON AMAZON
BEST BUDGET	Monroe 34504 Gas Magnum Shocks	8.6	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Fox 2.0 Performance Shocks	8.2	CHECK ON AMAZON
	WULF Complete Lift Kit	8	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Rancho RS9000XL Adjustable Shock Absorber Kit	7.7	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Rough Country 28330 2.5’’ Levelling Kit	7.4	CHECK ON AMAZON

1. Bilstein 5100 Shock Absorbers

Bilstein is a manufacturer that can be recommended for any car, SUV, or truck out there. Their line-up of shocks is superior to almost all other competitors out there.

The 5100 Shock Absorbers by Bilstein is also a shock that assures better performance in all aspects when compared to the stock ones.

It has also been seen that the 5100 shocks not only implement a monotube design, which has been proven to be better than all other shock designs out there, it absorbs all vibrations and most shock impulses in all terrains, no matter how rough.

The setting apart feature of Bilstein’s patented digressive valving technology that curves the piston in a concave manner to reduce friction to a large extent.

The reduced friction helps in off-road situations where the shocks have to adapt quickly when adjusting to rapidly varying road conditions.

A limited lifetime warranty is provided to the end user, which can be claimed for as long as the vehicle in which the shocks were installed is still owned by the same person who bought the shocks.

So, if a manufacturing fault arises during its usage, you are eligible for a free refund.

If you disregard the rare occasions of heating issues, you will not find a perfect shock for your truck.

It provides excellent performance in all areas and is even covered by a limited lifetime warranty for peace of mind.

2. Bilstein 4600 Series Shock Absorbers

Not everyone likes to go off-roading.

Most GMC Sierra 1500 owners use their truck for simple and light work, such as going to their jobs and back on relatively straight and bump free roads and terrains.

So, those people prefer comfort and smoothness over shock absorption.

The 4600s Series Shock Absorbers by Bilstein is the best option available right now that perfectly suits their needs.

The design of Bilstein 4600 also helps in achieving double the comfort level over the stock ones.

It has an implemented monotube design superior to other shock designs available on the market.

They are also using Bilstein’s patented digressive valving technology in which the piston is curved in a concave shape.

This allows it to move with lesser friction, allowing the shock to adjust to varying road conditions quicker.

One of its main properties is that it keeps the oil under pressure all the time. This prevents it from aerating, which is a common reason for shocks failing on users prematurely.

Once you buy them and get it installed a limited lifetime warranty is given, which can be claimed for as long as the vehicle in which is still owned by the person who bought the shocks.

For this period, you are covered under the guarantee that if any manufacturing defect comes to the surface, you will be eligible for a free cost replacement.

Although they are very expensive an unparalleled control is provided and smoothness while retaining their shock absorption capabilities for unexpected circumstances.

3. Rancho RS55265 Shock Absorber

Bilstein took the first two spots on this list, but coming in at a very close third is the RS55265 Shock Absorber by Rancho.

This kind is from the RS5000 series known throughout the world for their excellent durability and overall performance.

Amongst the available options right now this type is the best option if you like to go off-roading and like to push your vehicle’s limits.

All of this is possible, thanks to using a 10-stage velocity sensitive valving, which adjusts according to any road condition it is exposed to.

So, wherever you take your truck, it will be able to absorb all shock impulses while retaining its comfort levels.

The manufacturer is so confident about their shocks that they provide the buyer with a 90-day money-back guarantee, in case you don’t like their performance.

These shocks have been tested to their absolute limits, and they passed all of them with flying colors.

If you keep them, there is still a limited lifetime warranty, which guarantees a free replacement in any manufacturing issues.

Hence, this brand not only provides unparalleled comfort and smoothness, they have been priced competitively and have many features that help the vehicle in gaining extra control and handling.

4. KYB MonoMax 565102 Shock Absorber

Looking for shocks that give award-worthy performance?

Then take a look at these KYB MonoMax 565102 Shock Absorbers. KYB is one of the largest and popular suspension system manufacturers around the world.

So, when they started making shock absorbers, it was clear that their shocks would blow everyone away. And, that became true.

KYB makes outstanding shocks that not only perform better but are even an OEM fit, which means they are extremely easy to install.

KYB states that the 565104 has up to 40% better dampening power than the stock shocks, which do not perform up to the mark.

These shocks also belong to the MonoMax series, which is regarded worldwide for its superb performance in heavy vehicles.

There is a coat of zinc for rust prevention, and they also have a rubber boot that helps protect the shock from dust and small rocks.

As the name suggests a monotube design superior to all shock designs out there has been used.

The chrome-plated piston prevents the leaking of fluid, which causes aeration, which in turn causes shock fade.

So, no matter how rough the conditions get, you can rest assured that the shocks will last through them easily.

The KYB shocks are very cheap, and given the price tag, it seems very impressive.

Having an OEM fit, monotube design, and excellent durability at such a price cannot be found in any shock on this list.

Overall, the shocks by KYB have excellent performance and are extremely durable. The only main problem is the bushings’ compatibility, which may or may not be used on your truck.

Other than that, these are solid shocks that are guaranteed to last a very long time.

5. Monroe 34504 Gas Magnum Shocks

Don’t like the above shocks?

Or are you on a tighter budget?

Then check out these Monroe 34504 Gas Magnum Shocks. Monroe is also a famous brand that makes excellent quality shocks, which are priced very competitively.

And, these are no exception. To achieve the lower price tag, the manufacturer adopted a twin-tube design which is not bad by any means.

It has excellent heat dissipation capabilities and has a larger oil storage capacity, which helps the truck achieve better shock dampening.

What sets these apart is how they are tested. They are manufactured in Africa and are tested according to their road conditions.

The country has a rough terrain in general. So, if they can last through those roads, then durability won’t be a problem anywhere else in the world.

They also have a reserve tube, which, when needed, allows the flow of more fluid to the shock for better dampening.

The twin-tube design paired with the large oil storing capacity allows for rapid heat dissipation and makes the shocks usable in rough conditions for longer durations.

There is also very little chance of oil foaming, thanks to gas in the absorber.

This kind is perfect for you if you do not live in areas with high humidity. They are durable, perform decently and have a reserve tube in case more fluid is required.

6. Fox 2.0 Performance Shocks

Fox is yet another manufacturer that makes good quality shocks that have very few negative reviews, and the negative ones complain about the price only.

The brand provides with shocks that have superior control, smoothness, and handling, which is better than most shocks on the market.

The 2.0 Performance Shocks, which is the successor to the original Fox shocks, is a real life example of the type and quality of shocks the manufacturer makes.

With its monotube design as a performance-oriented feature is great for better dampening capability.

The aluminum build allows for rapid heat dissipation, a problem in many shocks, even the 5100s by Bilstein.

Premature shock failure is caused mostly by overheating due to prolonged usage.

That is not the case with these. You can use them in any terrain for as long as you want and still get excellent control and handling.

The main performance-oriented feature is the use of Fox’s own Internal Floating Piston (IFP), which separates the fluid and the nitrogen gas.

This reduces the chance of aeration, which is one of the major reasons for shock fade. What sets it apart is that they are rebuildable and rechargeable.

So, this makes them useful for a lifetime. The nitrogen gas can also be refilled because, over time, the pressure can reduce.

So, getting a recharge is far better than getting a full-priced replacement. This also justifies the high price tag of the shocks.

If you want shocks that are aluminum built and allows for rapid heat dissipation, this kind is the must have on your list.

Also it has a recharging and refilling feature, which makes it a must buy as compared to any other.

7. WULF Complete Lift Kit

WULF is a relatively new name in the shock absorber business. They are unheard of by many people, probably due to incompetent marketing.

But what they do know is how to make shocks that will make you feel proud of your decision to buy them.

This Complete Lift Kit by WULF has received only positive reviews from everyone who tested it.

This kit comes with all shocks required for your vehicle, helping it raise your front by one to three inches, and your rear by 3 inches.

This is extremely useful for people who use their trucks for transporting heavy stuff.

The additional lift helps the vehicle by providing extra handling power, significantly reduced when transporting heavy objects.

The lift is also helpful for people who like to go off-roading frequently. It helps the truck to take sharp turns easily.

This type of shocks are easy to install and come with a limited lifetime warranty, so in case there is any manufacturing defect, you are eligible for a free replacement.

The warranty is valid for as long as the truck in which the shocks were installed is still owned by the same person who bought those shocks.

The customer support of the manufacturer has also been highly rated.

I found this worth mentioning because some people wrong sized shocks, and the matter was resolved rather quickly.

A lifetime warranty also covers these shocks. This is different than the limited lifetime warranty provided by other manufacturers.

This warranty is valid forever and can be claimed by even new owners of the vehicle in which the shocks were installed.

So, if there is any manufacturing defect, you are eligible for a free of cost replacement.

If you want the shocks to perform like advertised take a risk to test out these, you will certainly be more than satisfied with them.

They are priced reasonably, provide more than enough lift for people who need it, and are extremely durable.

8. Rancho RS9000XL Adjustable Shock Absorber Kit

Taking eighth place is another shock by Rancho. Just like Bilstein, Rancho takes two places in my article. This tells you just how much good quality shocks they make.

The RS9000XL Adjustable Shock Absorber Kit provides an array of features which is unique to Rancho shocks only.

If you like to go off-roading frequently, then this type will suit you the best. The RS9000XL implement a twin-tube design which uses an adjustable dampening system.

Both of these features combine to give you an exceptional off-roading capability that trades blows with those of the Bilstein ones.

The adjustable dampening system features a 9-stage knob adjusted according to a person’s desire. You can choose from a smooth to a stiff ride, whatever your preference might be.

The twin-tube design allows the shocks to hold more oil than other designs out there.

This helps get the tires to make better contact with the ground and helps in heat dissipation thanks to the larger surface area provided by the oil.

The design also helps in absorbing most shock impulses, giving you a smooth and vibration-free ride. Like the RS5000s, these shocks also come with a three-month risk-free trial.

If you don’t like the performance, they will be fully refunded within this period. They are also covered in a limited lifetime warranty.

If you disregard the knob problem, the shocks are guaranteed to last you for a long time and provide more than satisfactory performance.

Their adjustability makes them offer a performance of nine shocks at one time. You never have to worry about them being too stiff or too soft.

9. Rough Country 28330 2.5’’ Leveling Kit

Coming in ninth place is the Rough Country Leveling Kit. It should be noted that although these shocks have been awarded the last place, they were chosen from a vast array of shocks.

So, they are as good as their counterparts listed above, if not better. Some people want new shocks and want to lift their trucks for better off-roading performance.

Well, then, the Rough Country Leveling Kit is definitely for you.

The set comes with four shocks and a lift kit that can lift your truck by 2.5 inches, which will give you the handling power you want.

The shocks perform exceptionally in all environments, and with the given lift, they perform even better. They absorb all shock impulses, which helps in rough terrains.

So, you can take your truck in your terrain of choice and come back with a more than satisfactory performance.

In a study conducted it was found that these shocks are also nitrogen-charged, which helps in improving the dampening capability of the shock and are very easy to install.

Although they are not OEM certified, they can be bolted on when installing. This cuts the installation time by more than half and makes them installable in only two hours.

They are also backed by the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty, which guarantees a free replacement in any manufacturing defect due to poor workmanship.

Overall, if you want shocks that provide additional lift while retaining performance and smoothness, then you must install these shocks.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, the best shocks for GMC Sierra 1500 available in the market.

These nine shocks have exceptional performance and cover all price ranges, so you are comfortable choosing the best one for you.

All of them are guaranteed to provide you with better than stock performance no matter what.

And as I stated above, they will easily last you around 100000 miles, no matter how they are used.

If it was up to me, I would choose the Bilstein 5100 Shock Absorbers as my go-to shock if I needed a replacement.

They not only have the highest positive rating out of all the ones listed above but come with a limited lifetime warranty, so you can use them with peace of mind.

They also have their digressive valving, which allows for rapid adjustment to road conditions.