Jeep Cherokee 1984-2001: Shock Absorber Reviews

With many different shock absorbers with many different purposes, the decision could be difficult. Here are some of the most popular brands to pick the right ones for you and your Jeep Cherokee.

By James Hodgson - September 10, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001).

Shock absorbers play a huge role in how your Jeep Cherokee rides. Depending on whether you like to go off-roading, drive on-road, or do both, there are specific shocks for specific purposes. Before choosing the shocks you want, first you must decide what you will be using your Jeep for. Rest assured that if luxury is what you're looking for, you can obtain that with the right set of shocks, and if durability is what you seek, there is that too. Read on to learn all about the different shocks and their uses, so you can pick the perfect choice for you.

Jeep XJ Shock Absorbers


Old Man Emu (OME) Nitrocharger
Rough Country N2.0
Bilstein 5100 Series
Price
$440 $159.80 $307.96
Adjustable?
No No No
Lift Kit Compatible?
Yes Yes Yes
Hydraulic or Nitrogen?
Nitrogen Nitrogen Nitrogen
Warranty
36 Month Limited Lifetime Replacement Lifetime Replacement
Best Quality: OME Nitrocharger
Best Value: Rough Country

OME Nitrocharger

Price – $440 (full set)

Adjustable – No

Lift Kit Compatible – Yes

Hydraulic or Nitrogen – Nitrogen

Warranty – 36 Month Limited

It's disconcerting that the warranty for the OME shocks is a little bit less convincing than the other companies, but maybe this is down to the differences between life in Australia and life in stateside. One thing they do have down under though is rough terrain, and the folks at OME focus entirely on 4WD products. If you're going all-out, no-expense-spared, this is the shock absorber for you out of this lineup. Recommended if you're looking for the best shocks and you don't mind spending the money.

Rough Country N2.0

Price (Full set) – $159.80

Adjustable – No

Lift Kit Compatible – Yes

Hydraulic or Nitrogen – Nitrogen

Warranty – Lifetime Replacement

Though the Rough Country offering is the least expensive, you shouldn't let that scare you away. There are lots of opinions on off-road forums that say that these shocks are the best bang-for-buck choice. As an added bonus, you're just as likely to run into a representative from Rough Country on the off-road forums as anyone else, so they clearly care about their product. If your wallet is your primary concern, you might want to give these a try. Recommended if you're looking for a reputable brand without spending too much money.

Bilstein 5100 Series

Price – $307.96

Adjustable – No

Lift Kit Compatible – Yes

Hydraulic or Nitrogen – Nitrogen

Warranty – Lifetime Replacement

The folks at Bilstein have made a lot of shocks, for a whole lot of applications, and for a whole lot of years. That's a lot of practice making shocks, and we all know practice makes perfect. These shocks are made for durability, stability, and all with the greatest reputation. They are definitely among the favorites in the forums. Recommended if you're looking for a great all around shocks without spending too much money.

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