Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Ride Shocks

Why should I buy Ride Shocks instead of a generic aftermarket shock?

Ride Shocks are engineered specifically for your vehicle's weight and accessory load, not built as a one-size-fits-all replacement part. Every shock is pre-tuned by weight range, uses a patent-pending piston design, and comes standard with DPA high/low speed compression adjusters, a 3-year/50,000-mile warranty, and a 30-Day Money Back Vow — a combination most competitors don't offer at a comparable price point.

What makes Ride Shocks different from other off-road shock brands?

Ride Shocks disrupts the 'one shock fits all' approach used by most manufacturers by offering multiple weight-range-specific tunes for every application. Combined with a patent-pending piston design, hard-anodized aluminum bodies, and built-in DPA adjusters, Ride Shocks delivers OEM-level fitment with performance-shock tunability at a more accessible price.

Who makes Ride Shocks and what is their background?

Ride Shocks was founded by Ryan Raker and the team behind AccuTune Off-Road, building on more than 15 years of experience custom-tuning top-name-brand shocks for off-road enthusiasts. That background in dialing in ride quality for real-world trail and overland builds shaped every part of how Ride Shocks designs and valves its products.

Are Ride Shocks a good value compared to premium shock brands like Fox or King?

Ride Shocks was built to compete with top-tier off-road shock brands on ride quality and adjustability while staying more affordable. By combining weight-specific valving, DPA compression adjusters, and a patent-pending piston design at a lower price point, Ride Shocks delivers premium performance without the premium price tag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Weight-Specific Tuning

What does "weight-specific tuning" mean for shocks?

Weight-specific tuning means each shock is internally valved to match a specific vehicle weight range, rather than using one generic valving for every truck. Because bumpers, winches, rooftop tents, and other accessories add real weight, Ride Shocks offers multiple weight-range options per application so the shock's compression and rebound feel dialed-in instead of too soft or too stiff.

How do I know which weight range shock is right for my vehicle?

Start with your vehicle's front and rear corner weight, including any installed accessories like bumpers, armor, and roof-top tents, and match it to the Ride Shocks Buyer's Guide for your specific application. If your build is heavily modified, Ride Shocks recommends weighing the vehicle at a scale for the most accurate fitment.

What if my vehicle's weight doesn't fall into any listed weight range?

If your vehicle's weight doesn't match a published range on the Buyer's Guide, contact the Ride Shocks sales team directly at sales@rideshocks.com. Their team will work with you to find or custom-tune a valving solution that fits your specific setup.

Can Ride Shocks be re-valved if my vehicle's weight changes later?

Yes. If you add significant weight to your vehicle after purchase — like a new bumper, winch, or overland gear — Ride Shocks can re-valve your existing shocks to match the new weight instead of requiring you to buy a whole new set. Contact Ride Shocks customer service to arrange a re-valve under the applicable terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

DPA Adjusters & Technology

What is a DPA adjuster?

DPA stands for Dual Piston Adjuster, a feature that lets you independently fine-tune your shock's high-speed and low-speed compression damping with the simple turn of a knob. It gives you the ability to dial in ride feel for specific terrain without removing or disassembling the shock.

How do I adjust the high-speed and low-speed compression on my Ride Shocks?

Turn the low-speed compression knob to stiffen the shock's response to gradual, rolling terrain or added vehicle weight, and turn the high-speed compression knob to increase bottom-out resistance when driving fast over rough, sharp-edged bumps. From the factory, both adjusters start fully soft (open), so you can add stiffness incrementally until the ride feels right for your driving conditions.

What's the difference between high-speed and low-speed compression?

Low-speed compression refers to how the shock's shaft reacts to slower movements, like body roll or rolling bumps and added weight — not vehicle speed. High-speed compression governs how the shock reacts to fast, sharp shaft movements, like square-edge hits at speed, and controls how much bottom-out resistance you get on rough terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Warranty & Guarantee

What warranty comes with Ride Shocks?

Ride Shocks are backed by a 3-year or 50,000-mile warranty against defects in workmanship and material, whichever comes first. The warranty covers the original purchaser as long as they own the vehicle the shocks were originally installed on, and is one of the strongest coverage terms in the off-road shock industry.

What is the Ride Shocks 30-Day Money Back Vow?

The 30-Day Money Back Vow guarantees that if your Ride Shocks' performance doesn't meet your expectations within the first 30 days of receiving them, Ride Shocks will either re-valve them for free or issue a full refund. To start the process, contact the Ride Shocks sales team with your order number and proof of purchase.

How do I file a warranty claim with Ride Shocks?

Fill out the Warranty Claim Form on the Ride Shocks Service page and include your original proof of purchase. Claims must be submitted within 30 days of discovering the defect and no later than 30 days after the warranty period ends.

Where do I register my Ride Shocks for warranty coverage?

You can register your Ride Shocks product through the Product Registration form on rideshocks.com. Registering helps Ride Shocks verify your purchase and speeds up any future warranty or service requests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Build Quality & Materials

What material are Ride Shocks bodies made from?

Ride Shocks bodies and reservoirs are CNC machined from 6061-T6 aluminum with a hard-anodized finish. This construction dissipates heat efficiently, resists corrosion, and holds up to the high temperatures common in off-road use.

What size are Ride Shocks shock bodies?

Ride Shocks uses a 2.5-inch diameter aluminum shock body and external reservoir across its lineup. That larger body size increases oil volume for better heat dissipation and more consistent performance during extended, hard off-road use compared to smaller-diameter shocks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ordering, Shipping & Support

Does Ride Shocks offer free shipping?

Yes, Ride Shocks offers free shipping to the lower 48 contiguous United States. See the Terms & Conditions page for full details on the free shipping policy and any exclusions.

Does Ride Shocks ship internationally?

Yes, Ride Shocks can ship internationally. International customers should submit an International Order Request through the form on rideshocks.com so the team can quote shipping and confirm availability.

How long does it take for my Ride Shocks order to ship?

Ride Shocks does its best to ship in-stock orders as quickly as possible, though exact shipping and arrival dates are not guaranteed. For current lead times or stock availability on a specific part number, contact the Ride Shocks team directly.

Does Ride Shocks offer a military discount?

Yes. Active-duty members and veterans of the U.S. Military receive 10% off purchases at rideshocks.com. Details and verification steps are available on the Military Discount page.

Can I pick up my Ride Shocks order locally instead of shipping it?

Yes, if you're local to the San Diego, CA area, you can select the local pickup shipping option at checkout. Ride Shocks will notify you once your full order is ready, and pickups must be completed within 30 days of that notification.

Does Ride Shocks offer financing?

Yes, Ride Shocks offers financing at checkout through Affirm, allowing you to split your purchase into manageable payments. See the Affirm page on rideshocks.com for eligibility and payment plan details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Installation & Maintenance

Do I need an alignment after installing new shocks?

Yes, Ride Shocks always recommends getting a professional alignment after installing new shocks. Any change in ride height or lift can significantly alter your toe and caster settings, so a proper alignment protects your tires and keeps handling predictable.

Can I install Ride Shocks myself, or do I need a professional?

Many experienced DIYers install Ride Shocks themselves using standard hand tools, following the included install instructions. If you're not comfortable with suspension work, or your vehicle requires specialized tools, a professional installer or shop is recommended — and note that removing components like shock boots or skipping install instructions can void your warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Suspension Education

What are the signs I need new shocks?

Common signs of worn shocks include a bouncy or harsh ride, the vehicle continuing to bounce after a bump instead of settling quickly, nose-diving under braking, uneven or cupped tire wear, and visible fluid leaking from the shock body. If you notice any of these, it's worth having your suspension inspected and considering a weight-matched upgrade like Ride Shocks.

Will new shocks actually improve my truck's ride quality?

Yes — shocks are one of the most impactful suspension upgrades for both comfort and control, often making a bigger difference than wheels or a lift kit alone. A weight-matched, adjustable shock like Ride Shocks lets you fine-tune the ride for your specific vehicle weight and driving style rather than settling for a generic factory tune.

Frequently Asked Questions

Vehicle Fitment

Which vehicles does Ride Shocks currently support?

Ride Shocks currently builds application-specific shocks and coilovers for the Toyota Tacoma (2005-2023 and 2024+), Toyota 4Runner (2003-2024), Toyota FJ Cruiser (2007-2014), Ford Bronco (2021+), Lexus GX470 (2003-2009), and Lexus GX460 (2010-2023). Each platform has its own weight-range and lift-height options tailored to that vehicle.

What lift heights are available for Tacoma Ride Shocks?

Ride Shocks offers Tacoma-specific shocks and coilovers across multiple lift height ranges, such as 0-2 inch and 1.5-3.5 inch options, depending on the generation and part. Check the specific product listing for your Tacoma's model year to confirm exact lift height compatibility.