I had been thinking of replacing the shocks of my truck and when researching, I came across the name Bilstein. Now I know what Bilstein is, but I just wasn’t familiar with the brand’s shocks because I never used them. But since the name came up pretty much everywhere, I wondered: are Bilstein shocks good?
Anyway, I went out, got the ones that fit my vehicle, got them installed, and have been using them ever since. And I must add, these shocks aren’t exactly the cheapest.
But was getting the shocks from Bilstein worth it? Are they good compared to other popular shocks? Well, you will find that out here today!
Bilstein: A Company Overview
When Bilstein started its journey in 1973 as a window fitting company, little did anyone expect it to be one of the leading automotive parts companies in the 21st century. However, the company did not introduce shock absorbers until 1954. And it kept on developing its shocks’ quality and, in 1957, it introduced the first monotube gas-pressure shock absorber compatible with a Mercedes-Benz.
Over the next several decades, the shock absorbers from Bilstein began developing more and more. And now, they are compatible with a wide range of vehicles and customers can get vehicle-specific models for better fitment. Bilstein is, as it used to be, one of the globally known brands when it comes to shock absorbers.
Are Bilstein Shocks Good?
Now, let’s move to why you are here. Are Bilstein shocks really good or worth the money? Well, to know that, you need to check out what the brand’s shocks offer.
- Build-Quality/Design
The shocks from Bilstein are made to last longer. That’s why they are constructed with high-quality material. Most of its models, especially the new and upgraded ones are made with steel and have a zinc finish. Unlike the painted ones, I found the new ones more likable. And the monotube design offers better control.
- Piston Assembly
The piston assembly can be divided into 4 parts: piston rod, rod guide and seal system, valving, and the “floating” dividing piston. Each part is made to boost vehicle performance and they are highly reliable for increasing vehicle height.
- Compatibility
Bilstein ensures its shocks can be installed in multiple types of vehicles, ranging from light to heavy-duty trucks. However, you should not expect to find a model that will fit all vehicles. For example, the Bilstein 5100 series is more suitable for heavy-duty vehicles, while the 4600 is more suitable for light-duty ones. Besides, they are not for a wide range of vehicles.
- Overall Performance
If you want to improve your vehicle’s response and performance, there can be no better option than Bilstein shocks. As you have read already, because of the way the piston was assembled, it helps reduce impact and their sealing prevents dirt from getting in. As a result, the shocks provide uninterrupted performance against any type of weather and road condition.
- Durability
From material to design, the Bilstein shocks are made to perform for a long time. And its design protects it from rough roads and weather conditions, which is just the perfect icing on the cake. So you can expect any Bilstein shock to last at least 100,000 miles.
Bilstein Shock Recommendation: Bilstein Monotube Shock 5100 Series
If you ask me to recommend any Bilstein shock, I will recommend the Bilstein Monotube 5100 series. Because when I was testing Bilstein shocks, the 5100 series caught my attention. And the first reason was its appearance.
Usually, you will notice that yellow, light blue or golden are the signature colors for the brand’s shocks. However, this one has a black and silver combo which gives away a stylish vibe and it blended well with my vehicle.
These monotubes are made with durable stainless steel and have a zinc finish. I drove my truck around in rain, snow, and mud and none of it affected the shocks’ performance. The shock’s collapsed length is 16.14 inches and the extended length is 26.15 inches. And it offers up to 3 inches of ground clearance.
But the problem with the shocks is that they are not always consistent. Depending on vehicle type, they often seem still while other times they seem hard. However, I still found them comfortable to ride with.
Since my work involves riding off-road and towing loads, I was worried about the shock’s response to it. Well, it turns out they are pretty great for heavy-duty trucks with great load capacity. But try not to push its limit too often.
Anyway, it’s been over 2 years now and we are still doing great. The price may seem a bit higher if you compare it with other brands, but I’m satisfied with what I got so far.
Why Should You Avoid Them?
Bilstein shocks are pretty good, there is no doubt about it. But even high-end shocks like them come with certain cons. I have mentioned them already but you may want some more details. Well, despite all the good things you have learned today, here are a few reasons why you would want to avoid them.
Cost
The cost of the Bilstein shocks is what makes many potential users turn away from it. These shocks are pretty expensive compared to many other top brands in the market.
Inconsistency
As mentioned earlier, I did not find consistency in the Bilstein shocks that I used. Even some users said that they found the shocks often too soft or too hard for the rides. But you should also know that it depends on your vehicle and shocks.
Fitment Limitation
There is no universal fitment for Bilstein shocks. Since they come as vehicle-fit models, they will only fit a number of vehicles.
Bilstein Vs. Rancho Shocks: Which One Is Better?
If you are new to Bilstein or an old user of Rancho Shocks, you must be wondering whether you should switch to Bilstein. Well, to know that, it is best to compare them.
While both Bilstein and Rancho shocks are made with durable steel, Rancho shocks lack versatility if that is your priority as well.
You wouldn’t want the shocks to stand out too much. And the Bilstein shocks come with a monotube design while Rancho shocks have twin-tube and tri-tube designs. Though twin-tube shocks give you better adjustability independence, monotubes are better when it comes to damping force and offer superior performance.
The piston size of the Rancho shocks is smaller while the rod size is larger compared to Bilstein, which ultimately affects their performance. In this regard, Rancho excels in riding smoothly on bumps and gravels. However, Bilstein does offer a firmer ride compared to Rancho. Besides, Bilstein shocks are more suitable for heavy towing capacity than Rancho shocks.
It is tough to say which one is better because, in the end, it is up to the user to choose. But I can tell you one thing, though Rancho is cheaper than Bilstein and better in some ways, Bilstein still stands out for me. So if I were to choose between them, my ultimate choice would be Bilstein shocks.
How to Install Bilstein Performance Shocks
Final Verdict
So what do I think of Bilstein shocks after testing and using them? Are Bilstein shocks good? Well, if I am to pick some of the best shocks for my vehicle, Bilstein will be one of them. I found them really excellent for improving my ride experience, and the vehicle’s stability, firmness, and better control.
So if I am getting all these at once, I can compromise with the price. So if you are looking for similar qualities, Bilstein shocks should be your ultimate choice.
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