Traditional oil shock absorbers, when put under extreme stress, can lead to oil foaming which causes shock fading and results in damping power reduction. In the 1950s BILSTEIN found the solution to this problem by developing gas-pressure technology. With the first installation of the monotube gas-pressure shock absorber on series produced Mercedes-Benz vehicles in 1957, we established the technology as an industry standard — a standard which continues today in both monotube and twin-tube designs. This means more reliable shock absorption and suspension under any load, and added safety in dynamic driving situations.

BILSTEIN monotube gas-pressure shock absorbers were the first in series production and have remained the equipment of choice for those who demand the most from their vehicle. Whether driving in poor driving conditions, sporty driving, or competitive motorsports, our monotube technology provides greater damping power due to the larger surface area of the piston. This results in improved handling, consistent performance, and longer service life. Increased installation flexibility allows engineers to find the optimum mounting position. BILSTEIN also uses upside-down monotube technology which allows the piston rod to be installed at the bottom of the shock tube body. A wear-resistant chromium tube moves up and down freely by incorporating low friction bearings. Both the support and lateral forces are distributed across a larger area than in twin-tube systems, and the torsional strength of the connection between the wheel and vehicle body is increased.

More than 90 % of all series vehicles are equipped with twin-tube shock absorbers. Twin-tube shocks utilize double-walled technology, where the piston divides the interior oil chamber into two working chambers. Under load, the piston pushes the oil down through the inner working chamber and up into the outer chamber. During rebound, the oil flows back through the piston valve to create a damping effect. Thanks to our close relationships with top automotive manufacturers, BILSTEIN can ensure all OE replacement shocks are designed to match the quality and performance of the original shock absorber.

Our shock absorbers for lowered and lifted vehicles, paired with proper springs, ensure enhanced driving characteristics while still achieving your desired look. Our ride height adjustment kits are thoroughly tested by BILSTEIN engineers. Only when we are 100% satisfied that all criteria have been met (driving characteristics, suitability for everyday use, appearance, ground clearance, etc.), will the kit be branded with BILSTEIN.

Our threaded body, adjustable shock absorbers with parts certificate provide unparalleled flexibility. The round threading paired with sport springs at optimal fixed pretension, allow quick and easy adjustment to provide maximum stability in any situation.

If the designation original equipment did not exist, it would have to be invented for us. For more than 60 years, we have been the development partner of choice for the suspension and shock absorber systems of renowned automakers — manufacturers in the premium segment as well as high-volume manufacturers. From the development of suspension components for series production to high-performance suspensions for motorsports or the production of high-quality OE replacement, our products and expertise are in high demand. Our comprehensive product range with high market coverage and availability includes everything — from OE replacement to tuning and motorsports. This is how we ensure the legendary BILSTEIN driving experience during the entire vehicle life.

All BILSTEIN shock absorbers undergo rigorous testing and measurement procedures for objective criteria including safety, braking, steering behavior, dynamic driving, and comfort. In addition, BILSTEIN never loses focus on the most important aspect of suspension design — how it feels to the driver. All of our high-performance shock absorbers, air suspension modules, and coilover systems undergo a rigorous testing program at various locations throughout the world including, the famed Nürburgring, our own Papenburg Test Center in Germany, and on an array of demanding trails and roads in Southern California, USA. Only when all of our test engineers agree that the optimum level of performance is achieved, may the products be branded with the BILSTEIN name — a name synonymous with a legendary driving experience.

BILSTEIN-Triple-C-Technology® is a high-performance, three layer coating. It has been specially developed for effective corrosion protection for our coilover suspensions, and has been subjected to grueling DIN 50021 SS salt spray endurance testing. Over 600 hours in the salt spray chamber proved to be no problem for our special coating.

• Coating 1: Zinc alloy ensures exceptional adhesion to the base material and long lasting corrosion protection
• Coating 2: The middle coating transforms the bottom zinc layer into a completely sealed surface
• Coating 3: A perfect finish for maximum protection against mechanical wear and corrosion