Your Toyota Highlander’s shocks are vital for a safe and comfy drive. Worn shocks can make your ride bumpy and handling feel loose.
Choosing the right replacement parts can be confusing. You need to match the model year and know if you need a full strut assembly or just the shock.
We looked at the top shock and strut kits for different Highlander generations. Some offer a complete set for a full suspension refresh, while others target specific issues.
This guide helps you find the best fit for your needs and budget. Let’s get your Highlander riding smooth again.
COMPLETESTRUTS – Front & Rear Complete Strut Assemblies for 2008-2013 Highlander AWD
This full set of four struts gives your 2008-2013 Highlander a brand new suspension. It’s a complete solution for a worn-out ride.
Everything comes pre-assembled with new coils and mounts. You won’t need a spring compressor for the install, which saves time and money. The ride quality feels firm and controlled, just like it did when your SUV was new.
I like that this kit covers both front and rear in one go. It’s perfect if your Highlander has high miles and everything is tired. The parts fit right in with no fuss.
Pros:
👍 Complete set for full suspension refresh
👍 Pre-assembled for easier installation
👍 Restores original ride quality
👍 Good fit for 2008-2013 AWD models
👍 Saves on labor costs
Cons:
👎 Not for 2WD versions
👎 Heavier package to ship
👎 More costly than buying parts separately
My Honest Opinion:
If your Highlander’s suspension is completely shot, this kit is the way to go. It brings back that solid, new-car feel. The all-in-one approach makes the job much simpler for a DIYer or a shop.
ARANA Rear Window Struts for 2007-2013 Toyota Highlander
These struts fix a common problem – a rear window that won’t stay up. It’s a simple swap that makes a big difference.
The install takes about ten minutes with a flathead screwdriver. Just be careful not to let the glass fall when you take the old struts off. The new ones have strong pressure to hold the window securely open.
I used these on my own Highlander and the fix was instant. No more using a stick to prop the window open while I load groceries. It’s a quality of life upgrade.
Pros:
👍 Easy do-it-yourself installation
👍 Strong lift support
👍 Fixes sagging window issue
👍 Comes as a pair
👍 Low price for the fix
Cons:
👎 Only for the rear glass, not liftgate
👎 Must handle glass carefully during install
👎 Check your model year before buying
My Honest Opinion:
Don’t put up with a floppy rear window. These ARANA struts are a cheap and simple fix. They work great and save you a trip to the mechanic for a tiny job.
COMPLETESTRUTS – Front Struts & Rear Shocks for 2014-2019 Highlander
This set is tailored for the third-generation Highlander. It mixes complete front struts with rear shock absorbers.
The front struts come fully assembled for a straightforward swap. The rear shocks are a direct bolt-on replacement. Together, they tackle the most common wear points on these models.
You’ll notice a big improvement in handling and ride comfort. The kit eliminates that floaty feeling on the highway. It also cuts down on body roll in turns.
Pros:
👍 Perfect for 2014-2019 models
👍 Pre-assembled front struts
👍 Direct fit rear shocks
👍 Improves handling and stability
👍 Complete refresh for main components
Cons:
👎 Rear shocks only, not full struts
👎 Confirm your model year is correct
👎 Professional install recommended for alignment
My Honest Opinion:
For owners of newer Highlanders, this kit hits the sweet spot. It fixes the core suspension parts that wear out first. The ride improvement is noticeable right away.
COMPLETESTRUTS Rear Quick Strut Assemblies for 2008-2013 Highlander AWD
Target just the rear end of your Highlander with this two-piece set. It’s a common fix when the back starts to sag.
These are complete strut assemblies, not just shock absorbers. That means the spring is already mounted, which makes the job much safer. You don’t have to mess with dangerous spring compressors.
The ride height returns to normal after installation. No more bottoming out on bumps when you have a full load of passengers or cargo. It’s a focused fix that works well.
Pros:
👍 Complete rear strut assemblies
👍 No spring compressor needed
👍 Fixes sagging rear end
👍 Improves load carrying capacity
👍 Set of two for both sides
Cons:
👎 For AWD models only
👎 Only covers the rear suspension
👎 May need an alignment after
My Honest Opinion:
If your Highlander’s rear is sitting low, this is your solution. It’s a safer DIY job since the springs are pre-installed. The result is a level vehicle and a better ride.
A-Premium Rear Tailgate Lift Supports for 2008-2013 Highlander
These lift supports are for the main power liftgate, not the small rear window. They stop that heavy door from falling on your head.
Installation is a breeze. You just pop the old ones off and clip the new ones in place. The strong gas pressure lifts the door smoothly and holds it firmly.
Be sure to check the fit notes carefully. This set does not work for Highlanders built in Japan or those with a specific nine-speaker audio system. It’s a crucial detail.
Pros:
👍 Easy clip-on installation
👍 Strong support for heavy liftgate
👍 Works with power liftgate systems
👍 Prevents dangerous door falls
👍 Comes as a matched pair
Cons:
👎 Not for Japan-built vehicles
👎 Not for models with 9-speaker audio
👎 Must verify your vehicle specs first
My Honest Opinion:
A failing liftgate is a safety hazard. These A-Premium struts are a reliable fix, but you must double-check your Highlander’s details. If it fits, it works perfectly.
COMPLETESTRUTS – Front & Rear Struts for 2004-2007 Toyota Highlander AWD
Give your first-generation Highlander a new lease on life. This four-piece set revives the suspension on older models.
These complete strut assemblies restore the ride height and damping control. Your Highlander will feel planted and secure on the road again. The