Best Car Shock Absorber Manufacturers

The first shock absorbers, structurally similar to modern models, from the point of view of history, appeared relatively recently, less than a hundred years ago. Until that time, a more rigid structure was used on cars and other vehicles - leaf springs, which are still successfully used on trucks and trains. And in 1903, the first frictional (rubbing) shock absorbers began to be installed on sports high-speed cars Mors (Morse).

This mechanism has been widely used on cars for about 50 years. But the design idea, listening to the wishes of motorists, gave rise in 1922 to a single-tube shock absorber, which is fundamentally different from its predecessor (the date is stated in the license of the Italian manufacturer Lancia). It was installed as an experiment on a Lambda model, and four years later, single-acting hydraulic models were proposed by Monroe.

Serial production of monotube shock absorbers for a foreign car Mercedes-Benz was launched only 30 years after the first version, when the German company Bilstein entered the market. The company relied on the development of Christian Brusier De Carbon, a talented engineer from France.

By the way, the aforementioned suppliers of the auto parts market, being the pioneers, keep the top notches in the rating to this day. If you rely on the opinion of pedantic Germans, then the brands Bilstein and Koni are the most trusted. They are considered quality leaders in their own right.

Regarding the first, which produces its products in three versions: oil, gas and combined - its shock absorbers are most in demand for BMW. The company has another interesting proposal from McPherson - an inverted monotube design.

The best option offered by Bilstein for normal quiet driving is the B4 gas-oil series, which provides good handling along with comfort. The B6 (Sport, gas) series behaves much better than the B2 - hydraulic - when driving aggressively.

The middle top positions in the price-quality ratio are occupied by the brands Tokico, Kayaba, Sachs, Boge and, as an economy option, Monroe. They are followed by the usual packers, which are not particularly welcomed by connoisseurs: Meyle, Optimal, Profit.

How to choose and when to change

If we consider that the list of shock absorbers offered by the market on the above list does not end, then going to the car market can lead to some confusion from the variety, which is difficult to understand. You need to proceed from the parameters and the current state of your car. Even if this is a cool foreign car, but surviving in its last breath, then it is probably not worth spending money on expensive brands, you can get by with cheap parts for a couple of seasons.

Here it is worth taking an example from the same scrupulous Germans, if there is an intention to save your "beloved" for many decades. The Germans begin to take care of the car immediately after the purchase, when it is completely new: regardless of the condition of the native shock absorbers, they immediately equip the car with the most reliable models, most often Bilstein or Koni.

The same operation awaits wheels with "rubber". After that, the driver can think about changing the shock absorber only with the purchase of the next car. For a Slav, of course, it is rather difficult to understand the meaning, but it is there, and it is common. These costs translate into significant savings over the next 10-20 years.

In principle, the consumer is not obliged to strain in studying the details of the internal structure of the mechanism and even indicative characteristics. All that worries the driver is practicality, safety, confidence in easy handling. And for this, those who advertise their product are already responsible.

Nevertheless, in order not to depend on someone else's opinion, it is worthwhile to understand a little about the principle of the system's operation: what is it based on, how the designs differ, etc., in order to be able to independently choose an option that is acceptable to oneself, or based on a preference for quality, whether for economic reasons.

The main types of shock absorbers

Reliable shock absorbers contribute to driving safety associated with easy handling. In addition, the vehicle gets better braking response and cornering stability.

"Amort" (this is how the device is simply called) is part of the suspension system, which, although it takes over vibrations in motion on uneven roads, is not able to reduce or completely prevent body swaying. This function is taken over by a system operating on the principle of vibration absorption by creating resistance by reducing inertia.

In appearance, all types of shock absorbers differ little from each other. Sealed cylindrical bodies with a moving internal rod are attached from below to the wheel axle or placed inside the suspension on guide racks (MacPherson suspension), and the upper part of the structure is attached by the end of the movable rod to the vehicle frame or body.

The mechanisms differ in their internal structure: one-pipe and two-pipe. The latter are believed to predate the more practical single-camera version. The design determines the filling, which can be purely hydraulic (oil), gas and mixed. Although oil is present in all varieties.

Production does not stand still, and is constantly improving models. Most likely, the future lies behind a new generation of adjustable models with the use of electronic self-adjusting control, which instantly rebuilds to the optimal mode depending on the state of the roadway or off-road conditions.

But now we will consider the devices of the main market range. There are three common options (apart from the one-tube inverted MacPherson suspension):

· Two-pipe oil (hydraulic). They work softly, ideal for a calm ride on a relatively flat surface, and they are the most affordable.

· Two-pipe gas-hydraulic, a variation of the previous version, where the gas occupies a small volume and creates a low pressure. It behaves well enough in bumpy terrain at reasonable speeds.

· Single-tube gas, where the gas is under high pressure and perfectly protects the oil filler from overheating at high speed.

Hydraulic (oil) two-pipe

By their design, hydraulic models are easy to manufacture, so they are cheap and must be repaired. The main disadvantage is severe overheating and foaming of the oil during racing, which leads to a decrease in vehicle handling. They are only suitable for moderate traffic, although they do their job well on uneven roads. As the air temperature drops to below zero, the solidifying oil binds the piston movement, which also affects driving comfort and safety.

Internally device:

· Piston with rod -A;

· Casing - B;

· Tank body - C;

Recoil valve - D;

· Inner working cylinder with filler - E;

Compression valve (bottom) - F.

Principle of operation:

The dual chamber shock housing also serves as an external reservoir (C) with a small amount of filler. Inside it is the main working cylinder (E), also filled with oil: like a thermos. A piston with a rod (A) reacts to raising / lowering the wheel of the machine. When the rod is pulled down, the piston presses on the oil in the inner cylinder and through the bottom valve (F) displaces part of it into the outer reservoir.

When lowering onto a flat surface, the rod moves backward with oil pumping back into the working cavity through the recoil valve (D) built into the piston. On hilly terrain, along with the friction of the piston, an intensive movement of the oil occurs, which leads to its overheating and even foaming. These negative aspects are partially eliminated in a more perfect design - gas-oil.

Gas-hydraulic (gas-oil) two-pipe

This is more a modification of an earlier version than a separate kind of system. The internal structure is no different from its predecessor, except for one point: the oil-free volume is filled not with air, but with gas. Most often - nitrogen, because under low pressure it helps to cool the filler and, as a result, dampens foaming.

This design has not completely eliminated the problem of heating and liquefaction, therefore it is considered an excellent average option with the ability to take a little acceleration on a not quite ideal surface. Slightly increased rigidity is not always a hindrance, and in some situations even contributes to the manifestation of the characteristics of a car necessary in a certain mode.

Gas one-pipe

The improved one-pipe model was the last to enter the market. Despite its name, it does not exclude the presence of oil, but the principle of operation and the device itself have significant differences from two-pipe structures:

· Moving rod - A;

· A piston with valves placed on it, compression t recoil - B;

· Body of the common tank - C;

· Oil or all-weather shock absorbing fluid - D;

· Floating separating (liquid from gas) piston-float - E;

High pressure gas - F.

The diagram shows that the model does not have an inner cylinder, and the body serves as a reservoir (C). A floating piston (E) separates the shock absorbing fluid or oil from the gas, the forward and reverse valves (B) are located at the same level on the piston. Due to the vacated space in the cylindrical container, the volumes of gas and oil are significantly increased, which contributes to the greater efficiency of the mechanism.

Gas under high pressure creates a more severe operating mode of the system, which allows its operation at high speeds. Therefore, fans of dashing driving prefer to install expensive brands of gas shock absorbers. Although it is also incorrect to insist on the advantage of one of the versions. You can achieve the same rigidity with a quick ride on oil models.

When choosing, you should pay attention not so much to the principle of the mechanism as to the manufacturer. In this matter, excessive savings are not appropriate, since it can result in significant costs for replacing parts that are prematurely worn out due to the fault of a poor shock absorber.

In principle, the consumer is interested in knowing not about the internals of the device, but about its capabilities, depending on the preferred mode of using the car. For example, buying from Koni does not put the client in any difficulty in choosing. Along with the fact that the company produces all three design solutions, its products, regardless of the series, are divided into Special and Sport classes. As a result, everything is very clear to the buyer: choose the Sport series for racing, and Special for a calm one. There is only a question of price with an eye to their material capabilities.

German manufacturers

The population of Germany at all times was famous for its scrupulousness and pedantry in any undertaking. The production of auto parts and shock absorbers in particular is no exception. Entering the world market is due to the presence of several "high-profile" brands that are well known in Russia.

TRW

Popularity is associated not only with excellent quality, but also with affordable prices. Despite its role as a packer, it is considered the main supplier of spare parts to the European market, although the French manufacturer uses the name of the German company. It produces two types of shock absorbers: oil and gas.

Bilstein 

The most renowned and largest manufacturer of various components for car suspensions. One of the "discoverers" who began his activity in the 50s of the last century.

When choosing, it is worth considering that since the end of the twentieth century, Bilstein shock absorbers have been installed on almost half of the cars produced worldwide. And Mercedes-Benz and Subaru use Bilstein suspensions in their original configuration. The brand supplies its products to many famous car brands: Ferrari, Porsche Boxter, BMW, Chevrolet Corvette LT.

Most of the manufactured systems are single-pipe gas systems. But there are other lines that strictly correspond to the purpose, as indicated by the prefix to the brand name. We are talking about the "yellow" models, the blue ones are already the Spanish version with the worst quality.

The lineup:

Bilstein Rally - for sports (racing) cars;

Bilstein Sport - for those who like to drive on the road (not professional);

· Accessories for suspensions from the Sport series;

Bilstein Sprint - for fast driving (with shortened springs);

· Bilstein Standard - Italian assembly for quiet movement, much cheaper, but the quality is "lame".

The guarantee of durability and reliability of the entire model range is a worthy compensation for the "sky-high" prices. Such components can withstand loads for more than a decade.

BOW

It is the official supplier of shock absorbers for Alfa-Rromeo, Volvo, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi models. It is part of the powerful corporation ZF Friedrichshafen AG, along with Lemforder and Sachs. The consumer speaks of the product as “good quality” for its middle price segment.

The high demand is due to the availability of a wide range for use when driving in various modes. Although experts say that there are no special changes in the characteristics of foreign-made suspensions using any series series. A noticeable result is brought only by BOGE Turbo-gas.

Nevertheless, the advantages of the mechanisms are undeniable, their popularity is associated with a more than adequate price for acceptable quality and a long service life. The line includes both gas and oil modifications:

· BOGE Pro-gas - two-pipe gas-oil model, due to the presence of a special groove at low speeds, provides comfortable control of the machine;

· BOGE Turbo24 - gas monotube heavy duty shock absorber designed for off-road enthusiasts;

BOGE Automatic - suitable for calm, measured traffic with slight bumps in the road;

· BOGE Turbo-gas - will be appreciated by reckless drivers accustomed to "drive" in sport mode;

· BOGE Nivomat - maintain a stable ground clearance, which allows you to load the vehicle "to full".

 The indisputable advantages of the BOGE brand are resistance to severe frosts, reaching -40, durability, adaptability to a wide range of car models, affordable low prices.

Sachs

Just like BOGE, it is part of the world-famous ZF concern.

In terms of quality, they are slightly inferior to the previous model, but at the same time they are cheaper. Mainly produced in gas-oil series. A distinctive feature is versatility, that is, equally acceptable behavior on completely different car models. In most cases, they are suitable for both SUVs and sedans. Although this point may raise some doubts. The linear range is represented by the series:

· SACHS SuperTouring - available in two versions: gas and oil - refer to the standard version for quiet movement on relatively flat roads;

· SACHS Violet - differ in color (purple), applicable in racing;

· SACHS Advantage - significantly improves the functionality of the suspension, meets the increased requirements for car handling;

· SACHS Sporting Set - sports not professional set (with springs), withstands driving at high speeds, is cheap.

Sachs' shock absorbers are favored by their use on world-class foreign cars: BMW, Peugeot, Volvo, Volkswagen, Audi, SAAB, Mercedes. In addition to versatility, amorts have anti-corrosion properties due to varnish coating, good dynamics, and the presence of a noise reduction system.

Interestingly, the first Ferraris were equipped exclusively with Koni products, but gradually after Bilstein they switched to Sachs, which speaks of trust in the brand.

European manufacturers

Europe as a whole lags behind the German manufacturer of shock absorbers, but it still has something to offer the demanding buyer.

KONI - Netherlands

West European Dutch brand that shared the top spot with German manufacturer Bilstein. Other advantages include versatility and the ability to adjust stiffness to obtain the desired performance and to extend wear resistance.

The company's motto can be called: "Do better than others!" Trust in the quality of the company is not unfounded: Koni has been present on the market since the days of horse-drawn transport and originally produced springs for horse-drawn carriages. And currently, its shock absorbers are used on foreign cars with a big name: rare Porsche and Dodge Viper, Lotus Elise, Lamborghini, as well as Mazerati and Ferrari.

The manufacturer is scrupulous about the compliance with the declared characteristics, so each model undergoes rigorous testing. As a result, there is a "lifetime" guarantee, amort can "die" only together with the car.

The lineup:

· KONI Load-a-Juster - a summer cottage option, allows you to load a car to the maximum due to a wound spring;

KONI Sport (kit) - for short springs, included with springs;

· KONI Sport - executed in yellow, designed for high-speed driving, adjustable without the need to remove, perfectly cope with high-speed turns;

· KONI Special - they are distinguished by their red color, behave well during a quiet ride, softness ensures obedient control of the car.

It should be noted that the manufacturer does not pursue quantity, paying more attention to quality, and the price is fully consistent with it.

G'Ride Hola - Netherlands

The Dutch representative of the auto parts market announced itself quite recently, but has already managed to recommend the products with positive reviews.

The tightness of G'Ride Hola shock absorbers is ensured by high-quality durable oil seals, excellent lubrication contributes to accurate operation, temperature drops practically do not affect the mechanics. Wear resistance is designed for mileage up to 70 thousand kilometers.

Gas versions proved to be excellent in "racing" driving, and unpretentiousness and affordable price persuaded many compatriots to choose Hola amorts. The undoubted and huge plus is thoughtful marketing, which includes initial installation, consultation and maintenance during the warranty period.

Miles from Belgium

On the Russian market of auto parts, a wide range of brands from Belgium is represented - Miles. Those who have tried the design in practice say that this is a suitable option for a comfortable ride in a quiet mode.

The device provides excellent grip, which contributes to safe movement, and also does an excellent job with its intended purpose - the absorption of mechanical vibrations from irregularities on the road.

Arguments in favor of Miles designs are providing a well-controlled driving experience combined with vehicle stability, the presence of an additive that prevents oil foaming and air ventilation, a seamless design, chrome-plated parts (protects against corrosion), filling with high-quality Korean oil.

A number of worthy European brands can be continued with the following list: Zekkert, Pilenga, AL-KO, Krosno.

Top Asian Brands

There is no doubt that Japan is the leader in the Asian range of machine components. But Korea and China were also in the top.

Sensen from Korea

In 2020, their oil shock absorbers are recognized as the best. Inexpensive amort, it turns out, can be quite reliable, as demonstrated by the Sensen brand. The manufacturer claims a long warranty period, promising a trouble-free ride on the rally up to 100 thousand kilometers.

Teflon bushings, chrome-plated rods with excellent seals are a guarantee of reliable protection against corrosion, which means that such a suspension part will serve for quite a long time.

Parts Mall - Korea

It is part of the large PMC Corporation (Parts Mall Corporation) in South Korea. In addition to Parts Mall, the organization has brands CAR-DEX, NT, etc. It is engaged in the manufacture of spare parts for the sale of cars in the secondary market.

In addition, the high level of safety of the Parts Mall shock absorbers generates great consumer demand, which is supported by the reputation from reputable auto manufacturers: Kia-Hyundai, SsangYong, Daewoo.

Kayaba (Kyb) - Japan 

The regular series (in red) is an inexpensive segment with relative reliability. Here, as luck would have it - someone will get 300 thousand km for the mileage, and for someone it may not be enough for 10 thousand km. A weak point is noted - the stock. Rust quickly after driving on muddy wet roads.

It was about the Kayaba Exel-G series, two-pipe gas-oil. In general, Kayaba products are mainly intended for "their" cars, but up to 80% are exported to the Chinese market.

There are also more expensive, but impeccably high-quality series in the lineup. The average version in terms of price-quality ratio - Kayaba Premium, is in great demand. This model is used in foreign cars Mazda, Honda, Toyota. The device provides soft control and a comfortable ride, it can be used on almost all models of any car brand.

Gas-A-Just rear shocks use a single-tube gas version. And the super class includes the sports lightweight line Kayaba Ultra SR and MonoMax with the same gas construction. These devices are adjustable without removing from the car, they are of impeccable quality and justifiably high cost.

Tokico from Japan

They are produced mainly in a gas one-tube version, so they are excellent for high-speed comfortable driving.

Tokico company occupies a worthy second place in Japan in the production of shock absorbers. Not too much demand is associated with a limited range of use, intended mainly for exported Japanese and American cars. Products of "Tokiko" can be found on foreign cars Lifan, Geely, Chery, Ford, Toyota, Lexus.

In its segment, these are affordable, with excellent driving characteristics, universal (with the ability to customize) amorts. The spring rate is slightly softer than that of the Kayaba, which provides better handling when driving at high speeds.

The company has only two factories, one of which is located in Thailand. Perhaps that is why fakes of their goods are practically not found.

In addition to the Asian brands presented, AMD, Lynxauto, Parts-Mall have proven themselves well.

Shock absorbers from American companies

The most suitable stands for Russian car brands are American ones.

Rancho from North America

These gas-oil dampers have a dual-circuit hydraulic brake drive design, which provides a large load capacity, optimal rigidity and excellent grip on the road.

Ranch stands fully justify their cost, have five adjustable levels of stiffness, are equipped with special sensors that monitor the movement of the rod, provide excellent handling and cornering stability even at high-speed driving, and have great potential.

Russian car enthusiasts prefer to install Rancho on brands such as VAZ, UAZ, Niva, the racks behave very well on Chevrolet.

Monroe

One of the veteran companies in the auto parts market, which began producing the first shock absorbers since 1926.

During this time, Monroe has sufficiently studied consumer demand and keeps the direction of constant improvement. Serves well-known car brands Porsche, Volvo, VAG.

Along with good quality (sometimes even exceeding expectations), the manufacturer's pricing policy pleases. The racks are designed for a relatively low mileage, up to 20 thousand km, but they can be changed without regret about overpayment.

The lineup:

MONROE Sensa-Trac - mainly performed in a two-pipe gas-oil design:

MONROE Van-Magnum - great for SUVs;

MONROE Gas-Matic - gas-oil two-pipe;

MONROE Radial-matic - two-pipe oil;

MONROE Reflex - improved gas-oil series for a comfortable ride;

MONROE Original - it is executed in two versions, gas-oil and purely hydraulic, this series is equipped with cars at the factory assembly.

For Russian roads, this is, of course, a dubious option, except for trips along the central streets of megalopolises. But the European consumer does not complain about the quality.

Delphi

The first single-tube inverted MacPherson struts were introduced by Delphi. The brand has proven itself in the manufacture of gas shock absorbers.

Delphi behave well on relatively flat roads, therefore they are of little interest to the Russian consumer, but with careful driving, the struts show high wear resistance. On the other hand, a large selection of models with different characteristics, more than an affordable price, resistance to frost and corrosion, providing excellent adhesion to the roadway, can cause interest.

Fox - California

One of the American leaders in the manufacture of special racks suitable for professional sports use.

They are installed on the production line of off-road vehicles and snowmobiles, are widely used on racing cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and are widely used in the field of tourism.

High quality dampers are presented on the market in the Professional Factory series, and in the everyday - Performance series. They behave especially well after individual reconfiguration for a specific machine.

Domestic producers

The Russian manufacturer also has something to offer its consumer. The main argument in favor of domestic racks is the price. Worthy are the brands Trialli, BelMag, SAAZ, Damp, Plaza and the Belarusian brand Fenox.

SAAZ

It is considered one of the best representatives of the Russian auto parts market.

An exclusive option for use on all cars produced by the VAZ enterprise. One of the advantages is the possibility of repair, as well as the presence of a rebound water buffer. They are mainly produced in two-pipe version.

BelMag

For Russian-made cars, there is no better option than this one.

 The stance is designed primarily for quiet driving, but it does a great job on bumpy roads. For the inhabitants of Russia, in particular the northern regions, the feature of oil two-tube shock absorbers is important to withstand particularly low temperatures, up to 40 degrees below zero.

Amotra BelMag, possessing a large margin of safety, are installed as "relatives" during the factory assembly of the brands Datsun, Nissan, Renault, Lada. It is recommended to install on two axles at once.

trialli

Working under an Italian franchise, it is engaged in the export of brake systems, steering mechanisms and other consumables for American and European cars.

Trialli parts are produced in two price segments - premium, high-end Linea Superiore and mid-range Linea Qualita. All products, including shock-absorber struts, are characterized by excellent quality, observed in the declared characteristics.

Fenox - Belarus

The popularity of the Fenox brand gives rise to many fakes of dubious quality, so when buying it is worth asking for accompanying documents. In their original design, the shock absorbers have a number of indisputable advantages that can compensate for the imperfection of Russian roads.

Exceptionally coping with bumps and holes, they can hold out on an impressive motor rally up to 80 thousand km. It is advisable to install the racks on both axles: on the front, they will ensure ease of control of the car, on the back - stability of movement without swinging on the most uneven surface.

Fenox are usually produced in the version of monotube gas shock absorbers, so they can withstand fast, porous driving on relatively flat road surfaces.

Questions and answers:

Which company is better to take shock absorbers? It depends on the material capabilities of the car owner and his ambitions. In the TOP of the rating are modifications KONI, Bilstein (yellow, not blue), Boge, Sachs, Kayaba, Tokico, Monroe.

Which type of shock absorbers is best? If we start from comfort, then oil is better, but they are not as durable than gas ones. The latter, on the contrary, are more rigid, but are better suited for high-speed driving.

What is better oil or gas-oil shock absorbers? Compared to gas oil, gas-oil is softer, but they are inferior in smoothness to oil counterparts. This is the best option between gas and oil options.