In brief, the 2014 Ram 1500 uses shocks (separate dampers) rather than struts. Its front suspension is independent with coil springs and separate dampers, and its rear suspension uses coil springs with its own shocks. There are no standard MacPherson-style struts in the common configuration.
Front suspension design
The front end uses an independent layout with coil springs and separate dampers (not a MacPherson strut assembly). The dampers are distinct components from the springs, providing damping without forming a strut unit.
- Independent front suspension with multiple control arms rather than a single strut assembly.
- Coil springs carry the vehicle’s weight; dampers (shocks) control motion.
- Shocks are mounted separately from the springs, so there is no integrated strut/spring unit.
Bottom line: the front suspension relies on shocks, not struts, with springs and dampers as separate components.
Shocks vs Struts explained
In automotive terminology, a strut typically combines a spring with a shock absorber in a single unit, often associated with MacPherson-type setups. The 2014 Ram 1500’s front suspension uses separate springs and dampers, so it does not employ standard MacPherson struts. The rear suspension follows the same principle, using coil springs with separate dampers.
Rear suspension design
The rear suspension is coil-sprung with a multi-link arrangement (replacing the older leaf-spring setup in later models). Dampers are separate from the springs, reinforcing the shocks-over-struts configuration across the rear axle as well.
- Rear coil-spring suspension (not leaf springs) with a multi-link arrangement.
- Shocks are separate dampers, not part of a strut assembly.
- Optional features like air suspension can alter ride height but damping remains provided by shocks.
In standard configurations, the rear of the 2014 Ram 1500 uses shocks with coil springs, not struts.
Summary
The 2014 Ram 1500 employs shocks (separate dampers) rather than struts in both front and rear suspensions. It features a coil-sprung front independent suspension and a coil-sprung rear suspension with five-link/multi-link geometry, with damping provided by individual shock absorbers rather than integrated strut assemblies. Optional air suspension may affect ride height but does not convert damping to a strut system.
Does a 2014 Ram have shocks or struts?
Keep Your 2014 Ram 1500 in Top Shape with Quality Shocks and Struts. Whether you're repairing or upgrading your Shocks and Strut, using high-quality parts is key to keeping your 2014 Ram 1500 looking sharp and performing at its best.
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How much does it cost to replace shocks and struts on a Dodge Ram 1500?
The average cost for a Dodge Ram 1500 Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $421 and $578. Labor costs are estimated between $219 and $322 while parts are priced between $201 and $256.
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How long do Ram 1500 struts last?
50,000 to 100,000 miles
How Long Truck Struts and Shocks Tend To Last. You can expect your truck's shocks and struts to last from 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
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What is the most common problem with the 2014 Ram 1500?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Exhaust. Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.
- Suspension/Steering.
- In-car Electronics.
- Brakes.
- Fuel System/Emissions.
- Engine Major.
- Paint/Trim.
- Electrical Accessories.
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