Shock absorbers Bilstein or KYB

I ran 5100's f/r for awhile before installing a 2" lift. They rode great. They still ride great with the lift springs I installed later to accompany them. They feel like the "Sport" setting in the AHC switch would've felt like if you had good stock shocks. They're not spine compressing stiff in the slightest.

I had Bilstein B8s with Neuspeed Sport springs and the damping is way better, and adjustable with clicks at the base of the shocks, with B16s even though the spring rates are significantly higher. B8/NSS were bouncy in comparison over expansion joints, etc.

The only major expensive maintenance I have had to do on my 04 prerunner was rebuilding the whole suspension at around 225k miles. The leaf springs were toast and the front end was starting to get there. I did everything myself and it wasn’t to crazy price wise, maybe $1200.

Pro-V Mechanic here, usually kapag sira ang rear shock niyo po, you'd usually hear a loud bang or kumakalabog kapag napapadaan kayo sa lubac or uneven road. Another key diagnosing if whether or not sira ang rear shock or front shock niyo is fluid leakage, usually may marka ng leak shiny oil na meron kayo makikita or kapag na touch niyo yung shock niyo and found out na maitim at basa yung feeling it means destroyed na yung shocks niyo may need replacing. Same diagnostic sound na maririnig niyo sa harap. So if napansin niyo na kumakalabog na shocks niyo, better to replace them as soon as possible for a comfortable ride. Trusted Brands for cheaper alternative is Nitro-Tech But if you want something a bit balance yet good price range KYB is the way to go.

On mine I pieced together all the joints with Moog parts and KYB shocks and replaced the rear leaf spring hangers (rust kills them) rather than go with a generic kit.

12k later and it all seems fine

Bilstein shocks will dramatically transform the on road experience

The answer is always the same. Bilstein 5100.

KYB makes good shocks, but I’m wary of most “quick struts” because almost all of them use the cheapest upper mounts and bearings possible.

I'm running Bilstein on the rear with the quadralift airbags. Seems to be a decent match.

5100’s ride is horrible, you’ll regret not spending a couple extra bucks!!