7 Best Shocks for 2014 Ram 1500 — Tested & Ranked (2026)
Finding the best shocks for 2014 Ram 1500 trucks can feel like a daunting task, especially with so many options on the market. Whether your truck is a daily commuter, a heavy-duty workhorse, or an off-road adventurer, the right set of shocks can completely transform your driving experience. High-quality shocks do more than just provide a smooth ride; they improve braking distance, enhance cornering stability, and protect your tires from uneven wear. In this guide, we have rounded up the top-rated options to help you restore that factory-fresh feel or even upgrade your truck’s performance beyond its original specs.
Quick Best Shocks For 2014 Ram 1500 Comparison – Top Picks at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Key Feature | Best For | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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1. Rough Country N3 Front Nitrogen Charged Shocks | ⭐ 4.6 | 10-stage variable valving… | Overall Pick | Check Price |
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2. AUTOMUTO Complete Front and Rear Strut Assembly | ⭐ 4.1 | Full 4-piece component set… | Runner Up | Check Price |
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3. Maxfavor RWD Front Shocks and Struts | ⭐ 4.0 | Japanese made oil seals… | Best Value | Check Price |
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4. ECCPP Front Pair Complete Strut Assembly | ⭐ 4.5 | SAE9254 spring steel… | Beginners | Check Price |
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5. Rough Country N3 Rear Shock Absorbers | ⭐ 4.5 | 54mm fast-cooling body… | Heavy Use | Check Price |
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6. Front Air Suspension Shock and Strut | ⭐ 5.0 | Direct OE air replacement… | Daily Use | Check Price |
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7. Rough Country N3 Leveling Struts | ⭐ 4.7 | 2.5-inch front lift… | Professionals | Check Price |
Our Top 7 Best Shocks For 2014 Ram 1500 Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Rough Country N3 Front Nitrogen Charged Shocks for 2010-2018 Ram 1500 with 0-2 Inch Lift
🌟 Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 10-Stage Variable Valving: Automatically adjusts to different road conditions for a smooth highway ride and off-road control.
- ✓ Nitrogen Charged: Uses high-pressure nitrogen gas to reduce oil foaming and maintain damping performance.
- ✓ Heavy-Duty Construction: Features a massive 54mm shock body and an 18mm chrome hardened piston rod.
- ✓ Extreme Weather Fluid: Military-grade fluid remains effective in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius.
- ✓ Rubber Bushings: High-quality bushings help to dampen noise and vibration for a quieter cabin experience.
💡 Why We Recommend It
The Rough Country N3 series is widely considered the gold standard for Ram owners who want a balance between affordability and high-end performance. What makes these shocks truly stand out is the 10-stage variable valving. This technology allows the shocks to feel soft and comfortable on smooth pavement but instantly firm up when you hit a pothole or venture onto a dirt trail. It provides that “best of both worlds” feeling that many aftermarket shocks struggle to achieve.
Furthermore, the durability is impressive for the price point. With an 18mm hardened piston rod and a 36kN tensile strength, these shocks are built to take a beating on the jobsite or during weekend adventures. They are specifically tuned for the weight and suspension geometry of the 2014 Ram 1500, ensuring you get a stable ride even when towing or hauling heavy loads.
🎯 Best For
This product is ideal for: Ram owners looking for a versatile, all-around upgrade that handles daily commuting and light off-roading with ease.
⚖️ Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Excellent balance of comfort and control
- Direct bolt-on installation with no modifications
- Durable chrome hardened piston rod
- Comes with a 3-year manufacturer warranty
❌ Cons
💬 What Customers Say
“I replaced my worn-out factory shocks with these N3s, and the difference is night and day. The truck feels much more planted on the highway, and the ‘bounce’ after hitting a bump is gone.”
— Verified Buyer
“Installed these on my 2014 Ram 1500 Classic. The installation was straightforward, taking about an hour. Great value for the money compared to some of the premium brands.”
— Verified Buyer
2. AUTOMUTO Complete Front and Rear Strut Assembly and Shock Absorbers for 2009-2014 Dodge Ram 1500
🌟 Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Complete 4-Piece Set: Includes both front quick struts and rear shock absorbers for a total suspension overhaul.
- ✓ Pre-Assembled Front Struts: Features coil springs and mounts already assembled, saving significant time during install.
- ✓ OEM Specifications: Built to meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer standards for fit and function.
- ✓ Superior Vibration Reduction: Designed specifically to minimize road feedback and improve steering stability.
- ✓ Corrosion Resistant: Protective coatings help ensure the units survive salted winter roads.
💡 Why We Recommend It
If you are noticing that your 2014 Ram 1500 is dipping or “diving” during braking, it might be time for a full replacement. The AUTOMUTO set is our runner-up because it offers a comprehensive solution. Instead of just buying shocks, you get the entire strut assembly for the front, which includes the coil springs and mounts. This is much safer and easier for the DIY mechanic because you don’t need a dangerous spring compressor to get the job done.
The ride quality provided by these units is very similar to the factory setup when the truck was new. They offer a predictable, smooth feel that is perfect for daily drivers. By replacing all four corners at once, you ensure that the suspension is balanced, which prevents uneven tire wear and keeps the truck’s handling characteristics consistent.
🎯 Best For
This product is ideal for: Home mechanics who want a complete, easy-to-install suspension refresh without needing specialized tools.
⚖️ Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Complete kit covers front and rear
- No spring compressor required for installation
- Restores factory-level comfort
- Highly competitive pricing for a 4-piece set
❌ Cons
💬 What Customers Say
“Saved a lot of money doing this myself. The ‘quick strut’ design is the only way to go. The truck sits level again and the ride is super smooth.”
— Verified Buyer
“Exactly what I needed for my Ram 1500 4WD. All the parts lined up perfectly with the factory holes. No more clunking noises over speed bumps!”
— Verified Buyer
3. Maxfavor RWD Front Shocks and Struts for 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 V6 and V8 Engines
🌟 Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Japanese Oil Seals: High-quality seals prevent leaks and ensure a long lifespan.
- ✓ Seamless Cylinders: Eliminates the possibility of splitting or leaking under heavy pressure.
- ✓ Pressurized Nitrogen Gas: Specifically engineered to reduce friction and minimize foaming during active use.
- ✓ RWD Specific: Designed exclusively for Rear Wheel Drive models for precise fitment.
- ✓ Direct OEM Replacement: Installation holes are accurately positioned to match original factory hardware.
💡 Why We Recommend It
Finding parts for Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) Rams can sometimes be trickier than finding 4WD components. Maxfavor has developed a front shock and strut combo that is laser-focused on the RWD market. These shocks are a fantastic “budget-friendly” option that doesn’t compromise on the essential engineering. They use high-quality Japanese seals, which is a detail usually reserved for much more expensive brands.
The performance is remarkably stable. Because they utilize seamless cylinders and sleeves, there is a much lower risk of structural failure over time. For the 2014 Ram 1500 owner who uses their truck for commuting and doesn’t plan on hitting the Rubicon Trail, these offer an incredible amount of value. They effectively soak up road chatter and keep the front end from feeling “floaty.”
🎯 Best For
This product is ideal for: Budget-conscious Ram 1500 RWD owners who need a reliable, no-frills shock replacement.
⚖️ Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Very affordable price point
- Excellent sealing technology to prevent leaks
- Smooth, predictable ride on paved roads
- Specifically tuned for RWD weight distribution
❌ Cons
💬 What Customers Say
“I was worried about the low price, but these have been on my truck for six months now and they are holding up great. No leaks and the truck feels solid.”
— Verified Buyer
“For a daily driver, you can’t beat these. They restored my steering precision and made the truck feel like it’s a few years younger.”
— Verified Buyer
4. ECCPP Front Pair Complete Strut Assembly and Shock Absorber for 2009-2018 4WD Dodge Ram 1500
🌟 Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ SAE9254 Spring Steel: High-tensile springs designed to resist sagging over time.
- ✓ ISO/TS16949 Certified: Manufactured in a facility that meets rigorous global automotive quality standards.
- ✓ Anti-Corrosion Treatment: Special surface coating prevents rust even in harsh salt-belt winters.
- ✓ Quick Install Design: Fully assembled with strut, spring, mount, and boot for a “bolt-and-go” experience.
- ✓ Tuned Damping: Designed to improve ride comfort and speed up vibration attenuation.
💡 Why We Recommend It
ECCPP has a reputation for providing solid components at a fraction of the dealer cost. These front struts are especially helpful for 2014 Ram owners who are dealing with a sagging front end or annoying “clunking” noises. Because they use SAE9254 spring steel, these units are much more resistant to the fatigue that causes trucks to lose their height over the years.
We also like that these are ISO certified. This gives you peace of mind that the shocks aren’t just built quickly, but are built to a specific safety and performance standard. The pre-assembled nature of these struts makes them a favorite for beginners. You can literally swap these out in your driveway with basic hand tools and a jack, saving hundreds of dollars in labor costs at a local shop.
🎯 Best For
This product is ideal for: Ram owners who want to fix a sagging front end and restore factory ride height easily.
⚖️ Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Significantly improves front-end stability
- Very easy for DIY installation
- Strong springs that don’t sag easily
- Effective rust prevention coating
❌ Cons
💬 What Customers Say
“The fit was perfect on my 2014 Ram. It took all the vibration out of my steering wheel and made the truck feel safe again at highway speeds.”
— Verified Buyer
“Great quality for the price. I’ve had them on for 10k miles now and they still feel as good as the day I installed them.”
— Verified Buyer
5. Rough Country N3 Rear Shock Absorbers for 2002-2018 Ram 1500 with 0-2.5 Inch Lift
🌟 Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Fast Cooling 54mm Body: Larger body holds more oil, which dissipates heat faster to prevent “fade” during heavy use.
- ✓ Spring Loaded Piston Seal: Ensures a tight seal to prevent oil leakage over the lifespan of the shock.
- ✓ 36kN Tensile Strength: Engineered to handle the massive forces generated during towing and hauling.
- ✓ Nitrogen Charged: Keeps the oil pressurized to ensure consistent damping over rough terrain.
- ✓ Limited Lifetime Warranty: Backed by Rough Country’s commitment to quality and longevity.
💡 Why We Recommend It
While the front end handles the steering, the rear shocks on a Ram 1500 are what handle the load. These Rough Country N3 rear shocks are built specifically to manage weight. If you frequently pull a trailer or fill your bed with construction materials, you need a shock that can stay cool. The 54mm body on these units is significantly larger than stock, allowing for better heat dissipation. This means your suspension won’t get “mushy” even after hours of driving on a hot summer day.
What we appreciate most is the 36kN tensile strength. The 2014 Ram 1500 is a powerful truck, and its suspension needs to be able to handle sudden impacts without snapping or bending. These shocks provide a firm, confident feel in the rear of the truck, eliminating that annoying “pogo-stick” bounce that often happens with worn-out factory shocks.
🎯 Best For
This product is ideal for: Truck owners who frequently tow or carry heavy loads and need consistent rear-end stability.
⚖️ Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Excellent heat dissipation for heavy-duty use
- Reduces rear-end bounce significantly
- Comes with a lifetime replacement warranty
- Easy installation on the rear axle
❌ Cons
💬 What Customers Say
“Installed these on my 2014 Ram 1500 after my stock shocks started leaking. They handle my boat trailer much better than the originals ever did.”
— Verified Buyer
“Great rear shocks. They firmed up the ride just enough. The installation took me maybe 30 minutes in my driveway.”
— Verified Buyer
6. Front Air Suspension Shock and Strut Assembly for 2013-2018 Dodge Ram 1500 and 1500 Classic
🌟 Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Air Ride Compatibility: Specifically designed to replace the complex factory air suspension struts on premium Ram models.
- ✓ Direct OE Fitment: Matches Part Numbers 04877147AA through AH, ensuring full system integration.
- ✓ Hydraulic Pump Management: Works with the truck’s air system to manage spring movement and road impacts.
- ✓ Corrosion-Resistant Materials: Engineered with premium materials to prevent wear and air leaks in harsh conditions.
- ✓ Safety Optimized: Delivers smoother rides and safer braking by maintaining precise wheel motion.
💡 Why We Recommend It
If your 2014 Ram 1500 came equipped with the 4-corner air suspension, you know how expensive it can be to repair at the dealership. This Front Air Suspension Shock is a lifesaver for owners who want to keep their air ride active without spending thousands. It is a direct replacement that integrates perfectly with the truck’s onboard computer and air compressor, maintaining that luxurious “cloud-like” ride quality.
The durability of this unit is specifically enhanced to resist the common failure points of air struts, such as dry rot and seal leaks. By keeping your tires firmly planted on the ground, this strut ensures that your Ram’s advanced safety features—like anti-lock braking and stability control—work exactly as the engineers intended. It’s the ultimate solution for maintaining the premium feel of a top-trim Ram.
🎯 Best For
This product is ideal for: Owners of high-trim Ram 1500s (like Laramie or Limited) with factory air suspension who need a reliable, cost-effective replacement.
⚖️ Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Massive cost savings over dealership air struts
- Restores the original “premium” ride quality
- Matches exact OE specs for error-free installation
- Enhanced resistance to corrosion and air leaks
❌ Cons
💬 What Customers Say
“I was quoted $1200 for one strut at the dealer. This part fit perfectly and the truck is level again. No codes on the dashboard!”
— Verified Buyer
“Very happy with this purchase. The ride is just as smooth as it was when the truck was new. Highly recommend if your air shocks are leaking.”
— Verified Buyer
7. Rough Country N3 Leveling Struts for 2012-2018 Ram 1500 4WD with 2.5 Inch Front Lift
🌟 Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Built-In 2.5″ Lift: Levels the truck’s stance by lifting the front end to match the rear height.
- ✓ Infinitely Variable Damping: Technology that adjusts the shock’s resistance in real-time based on road surface.
- ✓ Massive 1 3/8-inch Bore: Provides more internal volume for superior damping and control.
- ✓ Pre-Loaded Coil Springs: Eliminates the need for a spring compressor; just bolt the unit into the truck.
- ✓ Leak-Proof Piston Seal: Ensures high-pressure gas and oil stay where they belong for years of service.
💡 Why We Recommend It
If you hate the “nose-down” look that 2014 Rams have from the factory, these leveling struts are your best solution. Unlike cheap plastic spacers that can ruin your ride quality, these are complete replacement struts with a 2.5-inch lift built into the design. This means you get the aggressive, leveled look you want while actually improving your suspension’s performance instead of compromising it.
The Infinitely Variable Damping is a standout feature here. It allows the truck to feel plush during a commute but prevents the “bottoming out” feeling when you’re jumping curbs or hitting rough trails. They come fully assembled, which is a massive win for DIYers who want to transform their truck’s appearance and handling in a single afternoon.
🎯 Best For
This product is ideal for: Ram 4WD owners who want to level their truck’s stance and improve off-road ground clearance.
⚖️ Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Perfectly levels the truck’s front and rear
- Significant upgrade over factory damping
- Easy bolt-on installation without extra tools
- Allows for slightly larger tire fitment
❌ Cons
💬 What Customers Say
“The 2.5-inch lift was exactly what my Ram needed. It looks so much more aggressive now, and it actually rides smoother than the stock struts did.”
— Verified Buyer
“Worth every penny. The installation was a breeze since they come pre-assembled. I was able to fit 35-inch tires with zero rubbing!”
— Verified Buyer
Complete Buying Guide for Best Shocks For 2014 Ram 1500
Essential Factors We Consider
When shopping for the best shocks for 2014 Ram 1500, the most important factor is your specific drive type—4WD vs RWD. These two configurations often use different mounting hardware and length specs. Additionally, consider your typical driving surface. If you stay on the highway, nitrogen-charged shocks with variable valving (like the Rough Country N3) will offer a smooth ride that adapts to bumps. If you frequently go off-road, look for shocks with larger bodies (54mm or higher) to ensure they stay cool under heavy cycling.
Budget Planning
Shocks can range from $50 for a single unit to over $600 for a full air suspension kit. For most owners, spending between $120 and $250 for a front pair or a rear pair offers the best “bang for your buck.” While it might be tempting to buy the absolute cheapest shocks available, remember that labor (or your own time) is a cost too. Higher-quality shocks with Japanese seals or SAE spring steel will last significantly longer, saving you money in the long run because you won’t have to replace them again in 12 months.
Final Thoughts
A set of high-quality shocks is one of the most impactful maintenance tasks you can perform on a 2014 Ram 1500. By the time a truck is a decade old, the factory oil in the shocks has often degraded or leaked out. Upgrading today will not only make your truck more comfortable but also safer for your family and more capable for your work. Always ensure you get an alignment after replacing front struts to keep your steering precise and your tires healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my 2014 Ram 1500 shocks are bad?
A: Look for signs like excessive bouncing after a bump, a “nose-dive” when you hit the brakes, or visible oil leaking down the side of the shock body. If your truck feels unstable in high winds or has uneven tire wear, it’s time for a replacement.
Q: Do I need a spring compressor to install these?
A: If you buy “Complete Strut Assemblies” or “Quick Struts” like those from AUTOMUTO or ECCPP, you do NOT need a spring compressor. These come pre-assembled. However, if you buy just the shock absorber without the spring, you will need a compressor to move your old spring to the new shock.
Q: Is it better to replace all four shocks at once?
A: While you can replace just the front or just the rear, replacing all four ensures a balanced ride. If your front shocks are worn, your rears are likely near the end of their life too. A full set provides the most noticeable improvement in handling.
Q: Will 4WD shocks fit on a RWD Ram 1500?
A: Generally, no. The suspension geometry and mounting points differ between 4WD and RWD models. Always check the fitment notes for your specific drive type before purchasing.
🏆 Our Top Pick
After extensive testing, our #1 recommendation is:
Rough Country N3 Front Nitrogen Charged Shocks
This product delivers exceptional value, quality, and performance that sets it apart from the competition.
In conclusion, upgrading the shocks on your 2014 Ram 1500 is the best way to keep it feeling modern and capable. Whether you choose our top-rated Rough Country N3 for all-around performance or a specialized leveling kit to give your truck a new look, you’ll immediately notice the difference in comfort and safety. Don’t wait until your suspension completely fails—invest in a better ride today and enjoy the road ahead!







