Finding the best struts for ford explorer can be harder than it looks because fitment changes by year, drivetrain, engine, build date, and suspension position. A complete assembly may save installation time, but only if its application details match the vehicle exactly.
My first choice is ECCPP Complete Struts Spring. The package combines the strut, spring, mount, bearing, bumper, boot, and isolator, which can reduce parts hunting and eliminate the need to compress a replacement spring during installation.
My second choice is Aeagle Front Strut Shock Assembly. It includes both front assemblies and sway bar links, making it a practical option when worn links should be addressed at the same time.
My third choice is KUIPERAUTO Suspension Kit. Its eight-piece package covers front struts, rear shock absorbers, and sway bar links, although the relatively small customer-feedback sample makes careful fitment checking especially important.
This guide compares the five selected products, explains the differences between complete struts and larger suspension kits, and covers compatibility, installation preparation, alignment, maintenance, safety, and replacement timing. The goal is to help a first-time buyer choose a sensible part for the actual Explorer in the driveway.
Best Struts for Ford Explorer
I selected these products for their relevance to Explorer suspension replacement, the amount of useful fitment and installation information supplied, available customer-feedback evidence, and practical brand diversity. No hands-on testing is claimed here; the rankings weigh application coverage, package contents, convenience, and the trade-offs a buyer should understand before ordering.
| # | Image | Product | Price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  |
ECCPP Complete Struts Spring | Check Price |
| 2 |  |
Aeagle Front Strut Shock Assembly | Check Price |
| 3 |  |
KUIPERAUTO Suspension Kit | Check Price |
| 4 |  |
AUTOMUTO AUTOMUTO Front Complete Struts Spring Assembly | Check Price |
| 5 |  |
PM AUTO PM AUTO Pair Front Left-Right Quick Complete Strut-Coil | Check Price |
ECCPP Complete Struts Spring
ECCPP’s complete assembly is the most broadly useful choice in this group for many 2013–2019 Ford Explorer owners. It arrives with the main suspension components already assembled: the strut, coil spring, mount, bearing, bumper, boot, and isolator. That matters because buying a complete unit reduces the chance of overlooking a small mounting or protection component.
The pre-assembled format also makes the job more approachable for a home mechanic. There is no need to transfer the old spring or use a coil spring compressor, a tool that can be dangerous when handled incorrectly. The practical trade-off is that the buyer accepts the spring and other included components as a matched package rather than selecting each part individually.
ECCPP states that the spring uses SAE9254 spring steel and that the assembly receives surface treatment intended to improve strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance. Those statements provide useful quality context, but they should not replace checking the vehicle selector. The listing specifically advises confirming the exact model and trim before purchase.
The company also recommends replacing struts in pairs on the same axle and getting a wheel alignment afterward. That is sensible because one new side beside one significantly older side can produce uneven suspension response. With a 4.1 rating from 391 customer ratings, this option has more feedback behind it than several alternatives in the group.
Pros
- Broad stated fitment for 2013–2019 Explorers.
- Complete pre-assembled package with spring and mounting hardware.
- Includes protective and isolation components.
- Substantial customer-feedback sample compared with the other choices.
Cons
- Exact trim and application still require confirmation.
- Sold as a complete configuration rather than individually selected components.
- Alignment is an additional post-installation requirement.
My Opinion
ECCPP is the strongest all-around starting point for a 2013–2019 owner who values a straightforward replacement package. Buy it only after confirming the vehicle selector, and replace both sides of the same axle for the most consistent result.
Aeagle Front Strut Shock Assembly
Aeagle takes a narrower approach than ECCPP, but that narrow fitment can be an advantage when it matches the vehicle. This package is identified for 2011–2012 Ford Explorer FWD models built before September 4, 2012. It includes left and right front strut assemblies with coil springs, along with front sway bar end links.
Including the links gives this kit useful practical value for an older Explorer whose front suspension is being serviced because of knocking or looseness. Replacing related worn hardware at the same time can prevent a buyer from having to revisit the same area immediately. It also means the kit is more than a simple pair of struts, so confirm that the supplied parts correspond to the repair plan.
The listing describes the assemblies as model-specific and says installation does not require cutting tools. A complete spring-and-strut unit can simplify the work, but “easy to install” never removes the need for proper lifting equipment, torque procedures, and a safe work area. Suspension fasteners may be tight or corroded, particularly on an older vehicle.
Aeagle recommends checking struts around every 50,000 miles on most vehicles and supplies a one-year warranty with replacement. The product has a 4.6 rating from 30 customer ratings, which is encouraging but a smaller evidence base than the leading option. Most importantly, this is not a general 2011–2013 fit: front-wheel drive and the build-date cutoff are central to the application.
Pros
- Includes both front complete assemblies.
- Adds two front sway bar end links.
- Specific option for certain early FWD Explorers.
- One-year warranty and replacement are stated.
Cons
- Not suitable for every 2011–2013 Explorer.
- Build date before September 4, 2012 must be confirmed.
- Customer-feedback sample is relatively small.
My Opinion
Aeagle is a sensible second choice when the Explorer is FWD and falls within the stated build-date range. It is less versatile than the top pick, but the included links make it appealing for a focused front-end refresh.
KUIPERAUTO Suspension Kit
KUIPERAUTO is the most comprehensive package here. Its eight pieces include two front struts with coil springs, two rear shock absorbers, two front sway bar links, and two rear sway bar links. For an owner planning a larger suspension overhaul, having the front and rear components together can make the parts list easier to manage.
The stated application is specifically a 2013–2018 Ford Explorer with the 3.5L engine and AWD. That limitation is important: the large package should not be treated as a universal Explorer suspension kit. Buyers should compare drivetrain, engine, model year, and replacement numbers such as 272729, 272730, and 911330 before ordering.
KUIPERAUTO says the assemblies use high-quality steel and that the installation holes are accurately positioned. The complete front strut format is intended to avoid coil spring compressors and special tools. That can reduce complexity, although the rear shock and sway bar work still require normal suspension repair equipment and careful support of the vehicle.
This kit makes most sense when several suspension items are worn rather than when only one front strut has failed. Replacing more components at once may restore a more balanced feel, but it also increases the job size and the number of fitment points that must be correct. With a 3.5 rating from 11 customer ratings, the limited feedback calls for extra diligence rather than blind confidence.
Pros
- Eight-piece package covers front and rear suspension areas.
- Includes four sway bar links.
- Front assemblies are supplied with coil springs.
- Useful for a planned full suspension refresh.
Cons
- Stated fitment is limited to 2013–2018 3.5L AWD models.
- Larger kit may be unnecessary for a single worn component.
- Only 11 customer ratings are supplied.
My Opinion
KUIPERAUTO is the right kind of option for a 3.5L AWD owner who wants to address several suspension parts in one project. Its broad contents are valuable, but the narrow application and limited feedback keep it below the more straightforward choices.
AUTOMUTO AUTOMUTO Front Complete Struts Spring Assembly
AUTOMUTO supplies a pair of front complete strut assemblies for selected 2013–2019 Ford Explorer applications. The package is aimed at buyers who want a direct replacement for both front sides rather than a rear suspension kit or a collection of separate service parts.
Its compatibility notes are more detailed than the broad year range suggests. The listing identifies 2013 FWD vehicles built after September 4, 2012, 2014–2018 FWD models, and 2019 models with the 2.3L L4 engine. That leaves no room for guessing about drivetrain or engine. A vehicle selector check should happen before payment, especially for AWD or other engine configurations.
The assemblies are pre-assembled, so the buyer avoids transferring a spring and does not need a coil spring compressor for the main replacement. That can shorten the project and reduce exposure to one of the more hazardous suspension tasks. As with any complete assembly, installation still requires correctly supporting the vehicle and tightening the hardware according to the vehicle’s service instructions.
AUTOMUTO connects replacement symptoms with excessive bouncing, poor braking performance, uneven tire wear, weak steering response, turning noise, or visible fluid leakage. Those signs can also involve tires, brakes, bearings, links, or other suspension parts, so they should be treated as inspection clues rather than proof that the struts alone are at fault.
Pros
- Front left and right assemblies are supplied together.
- Pre-assembled format avoids spring transfer.
- Useful symptom guidance for identifying possible suspension trouble.
- Detailed year, drivetrain, build-date, and engine notes are provided.
Cons
- Listed customer rating is 3.1 from 12 ratings.
- Coverage varies significantly by engine and drivetrain.
- Symptoms listed can also come from other vehicle systems.
My Opinion
AUTOMUTO deserves consideration when its detailed application notes match the Explorer exactly. It offers convenient front-pair replacement, but the modest customer-feedback evidence makes careful inspection and fitment confirmation especially important.
PM AUTO PM AUTO Pair Front Left-Right Quick Complete Strut-Coil
PM AUTO focuses on the basic job: replacing both front left and right strut-coil assemblies. The pair is identified with replacement numbers 172730 and 172729, and the supplied application list covers several specific Explorer combinations, including 2.0L FWD models, the 2019 2.3L turbo, and certain 3.5L FWD applications.
The biggest advantage is the paired format. Replacing both front sides together helps avoid mixing a new assembly with a much older one, and a complete coil-and-strut unit eliminates spring transfer. For a buyer who has already confirmed that only the front assemblies need attention, this can be a clean and efficient parts choice.
Fitment is also the central limitation. The product information separates applications by year, engine, drivetrain, and in one case the September 4, 2012 build-date point. The wording includes several engine and drivetrain combinations, but it does not make every 2013–2019 Explorer compatible. Use the vehicle fitment tool and read the application notes rather than relying only on the year range.
PM AUTO is listed with a 5.0 rating, but that score comes from just one customer rating. It is therefore too early to treat the number as strong durability evidence. The package is better judged by its confirmed application, complete front-pair format, and suitability for a buyer who wants a simple replacement rather than a full suspension conversion.
Pros
- Front left and right quick complete assemblies are paired.
- Replacement numbers 172730 and 172729 are supplied.
- Specific engine and drivetrain applications are listed.
- Brand-new complete components are identified.
Cons
- Only one customer rating is supplied.
- Not every 2013–2019 Explorer is covered.
- No rear components or sway bar links are included.
My Opinion
PM AUTO is a reasonable targeted option for a buyer whose exact Explorer appears in the fitment tool. The complete front-pair format is convenient, but the single-rating sample means application accuracy should matter more than the displayed score.
How I Selected These Best Struts for Ford Explorer
The selection began with application relevance, then moved to what each package actually contains. A front pair, a complete assembly, and an eight-piece suspension kit serve different repair situations, so ranking them only by advertised coverage would be misleading. Fitment specificity, installation convenience, included related hardware, and customer-feedback volume were considered together.
Year range alone is not enough for Explorer suspension parts. Drivetrain, engine, front or rear position, and sometimes the build date can change the correct assembly.
Customer ratings were treated as supporting evidence rather than a complete measure of durability. A 5.0 score based on one rating is less informative than a lower score supported by hundreds of ratings. I also gave practical weight to complete pre-assembled designs because they can reduce spring-transfer work and the need for a coil spring compressor.
A complete suspension package is valuable only when every included piece matches the vehicle and the repair plan. More parts do not automatically mean a better purchase.
How to Choose the Best Struts for Ford Explorer
The right choice starts with the vehicle, not the product title. Before comparing convenience or package size, identify the Explorer’s model year, engine, drivetrain, build date when listed, and whether the repair is for the front or rear suspension.
- Confirm the exact fitment with the vehicle selector and application notes.
- Choose a complete assembly if avoiding spring transfer is important.
- Replace both sides on the same axle when practical.
- Decide whether sway bar links or rear shocks also need replacement.
- Plan for an alignment after front suspension work.
Match the Assembly to the Suspension Position
Front struts and rear shocks are not interchangeable categories. Several products here supply front assemblies only, while KUIPERAUTO includes front struts and rear shock absorbers. A buyer replacing one leaking front unit should not automatically purchase an eight-piece kit, while someone refreshing the entire suspension may benefit from the larger package.
Check Engine, Drivetrain, and Build Date
Explorer applications can overlap across model years while still separating FWD, AWD, engine size, and production date. Aeagle’s pre-September 4, 2012 cutoff and PM AUTO’s engine-specific notes show why a general “2013–2019” search is only a starting point. Save the vehicle identification details before shopping.
Choose Complete or Component-Based Parts
A complete strut normally arrives with the spring and mounting pieces already assembled. That can save time and avoid spring-compressor work. The trade-off is less control over individual component selection. If the existing spring, mount, or bearing is being reused, a partial repair may be appropriate, but the products in this comparison mainly target complete replacement.
Installation Preparation and Safety
Suspension work should begin with a level work area, proper jack stands, wheel chocks, and tools suited to the vehicle’s fasteners. Never rely on a floor jack alone while working under an Explorer. Read the product instructions and vehicle service information before loosening any suspension hardware.
Photograph the original assembly and note the position of brackets, brake-line retainers, and sway bar links. Even a pre-assembled replacement must be oriented correctly. Keep removed hardware organized by side, and do not force a bolt through a misaligned mounting hole.
Pre-assembled units reduce spring-related work but do not eliminate stored energy in the suspension or the need for safe lifting. If a spring must be transferred, use the correct compressor and do not improvise with makeshift clamps or impact tools.
Alignment After Strut Replacement
Removing and reinstalling front strut assemblies can alter wheel alignment, even when the replacement appears to fit perfectly. A vehicle may pull, wear one tire edge, or feel less stable if toe or camber-related settings are no longer within specification.
Schedule an alignment after replacing front struts, particularly if the old parts were badly worn or the vehicle has uneven tire wear. Ask for a printout of the readings so changes can be identified. An alignment cannot correct a bent suspension component, loose bearing, damaged link, or incorrect assembly.
When Explorer Struts Need Replacement
Common warning signs include excessive bouncing, visible fluid leakage, nose dive during braking, unusual tire wear, poor steering response, and knocking or noise over bumps. These symptoms are useful prompts for inspection, not automatic confirmation that the strut is the only failed part.
Mileage can help establish an inspection schedule, but road conditions, load, corrosion, towing, and driving style affect service life. Aeagle’s supplied guidance suggests checking struts around 50,000 miles on most vehicles. That is a check interval, not a guaranteed replacement deadline.
Replacing Struts in Pairs
One weak strut can make the Explorer feel uneven from side to side. Replacing the left and right units on the same axle together gives the suspension a more consistent starting point and reduces the chance of paying for another alignment soon after the first repair.
A paired front assembly such as the PM AUTO or AUTOMUTO option suits this approach. ECCPP also recommends replacement in pairs. If budget requires a staged repair, inspect the opposite side carefully and understand that the vehicle may not respond identically on both sides until the second unit is replaced.
How to Protect the New Suspension
After installation, listen for new clunks, check for loose hardware, and watch for changes in steering or ride height. Recheck visible fasteners and related components after the first short period of normal driving if the installation instructions call for it.
Keep tires correctly inflated and address worn sway bar links, control-arm bushings, bearings, or damaged bump stops rather than expecting new struts to compensate for every suspension problem. Avoid overloaded driving and severe pothole impacts when possible. Regular tire inspections can reveal alignment or suspension issues before they become expensive.
Common Mistakes When Buying Explorer Struts
Most costly mistakes happen before installation. Buyers often rely on a broad year range, overlook drivetrain details, or assume a high rating with very few ratings proves long-term performance.
- Ordering by year alone without checking engine and drivetrain.
- Ignoring a build-date cutoff such as September 4, 2012.
- Buying front parts when the problem is at the rear.
- Replacing one side and leaving a visibly weak opposite side.
- Skipping the post-installation alignment.
- Assuming every noise comes from the strut assembly.
- Working under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
FAQS About Best Struts for Ford Explorer
What are the best struts for Ford Explorer models from 2013 to 2019?
ECCPP is the strongest broad-fit choice in this group because it is listed for 2013–2019 models and arrives as a complete assembly. Exact trim and application confirmation are still required.
Are complete strut assemblies easier to install on a Ford Explorer?
Generally, yes. A complete assembly includes the spring and mounting components, so the buyer can avoid transferring the old spring and using a coil spring compressor. Safe lifting and correct torque procedures are still necessary.
Should Ford Explorer struts be replaced in pairs?
Replacing both units on the same axle is generally the more consistent approach. ECCPP specifically recommends pair replacement, and PM AUTO and AUTOMUTO supply front pairs.
Do new Ford Explorer struts require an alignment?
An alignment is recommended after front strut replacement because removing the assembly can affect wheel geometry. It also helps identify remaining suspension or steering problems.
Can a 2013 Ford Explorer use any strut listed for 2013–2019?
No. The correct part may depend on FWD or AWD, engine, trim, and build date. AUTOMUTO, PM AUTO, and other listings show that the same model year can have multiple applications.
Is an eight-piece suspension kit better than a front strut pair?
It depends on the repair. KUIPERAUTO’s eight-piece kit is useful for a broader 3.5L AWD suspension refresh, while a front pair is more appropriate when only the front assemblies require replacement.
Final Thoughts
The best struts for ford explorer depend on exact fitment and the size of the repair. ECCPP Complete Struts Spring is my top overall choice, Aeagle Front Strut Shock Assembly is the better targeted alternative for certain early FWD models, and KUIPERAUTO Suspension Kit is the most comprehensive option for a qualifying 3.5L AWD Explorer. Confirm every application detail, replace matching axle pairs when possible, and schedule an alignment after front suspension work.