2016 Sierra Denali Magneride elimination - I need advice!

BenJeffries · November 17, 2021

I know this topic comes up often and there's lots of opinions on it. So I appreciate your patience and any insight ya'll have.

I bought my 2016 Sierra Denali used in 2018. It had high mileage (83k) but was extremely clean and a seemingly good deal. I occasionally haul a large enclosed trailer. I've also hauled a bumper pull RV across country for family trips. While it hauled the trailers amazingly well I've been less than impressed with the day to day ride. It does not handle bumps or rough roads anywhere close to what I had imagined a "denali" truck would. It's borderline embarrassing. I bought it in the winter and honestly didn't notice until the Spring of 2019.

Unhappy with the ride, I've considered replacing the wheels with a smaller 18 inch wheel so I can get more rubber on the sidewalls in hopes of smoothing things out. I've also considered replacing the magneride shocks with a small aftermarket lift with shocks/leveling etc. (like a leveling kit or 3.5inch lift kit?)

However, today my truck was in for service (tranny work - but I won't go there ) and a guy I trust pointed out that one of my rear shocks had failed and needs replacing. He is adamant that replacing the shock may solve a lot the overall feel and ride issues that I've been complaining about and that going with an aftermarket lift/shock/tire/wheel replacement isn't the solution.

My question - has anyone owned their truck for a period of time, replaced their magneride shocks with OEM factory replacements and seen an improvement worth the bill? At over $500 per shock, It's going to be expensive.

Or has anyone replaced their magneride system with an aftermarket brand and seen an improvement worth while? (meaning lift kit/leveling kit/shocks/wheels etc)

I'm guessing to replace all four shocks with OEM equipment will run me close to $2,500.00 with labor. And I'm guessing an aftermarket package along with new wheels will be close to the same?

Any insight or help would be greatly appreciated!

STurner15 · November 18, 2021

I have the same year, and engine so I already know exactly what type of "transmission" issues you're having... fun stuff with the 8speeds!

Can't speak to the shocks and that issue but I have a set of 18" Denali wheels when you're ready

Edited November 18, 2021 by STurner15

jrabenaldt · November 19, 2021

I also have a 2016 but it's lifted and running 35's but...

I replaced my front shocks myself last January because both failed and were locked extended. I found replacement shocks for closer to $650 for the pair. Truck drives like it should now. I have noticed that the rear rides much better with 100-200 lbs in the bed and I'd rather have a more firm ride rather then a squishy rolling ride. My rear shocks are still original (knock on wood now).

There are several videos showing how to do it and the connector is a PIA to change if you change the pins in the connector like most show. I ended up cutting original shock wires and soldering that original connector pig tail to the new wires.

Is it worth it? That's really up to you. I didn't want to give that up quite yet but if they don't last I may quickly change my mind.

jw63 · November 23, 2021

I can't speak to deleting the magnetic ride system, and I have yet to replace the magnaride shocks on my Denali...but I replaced them on an XTS at 60K miles and the difference was night and day. The ride was not horrible yet on the old shocks, but the new shocks were well worth the money to replace.

There's some discussion around Magnetic ride on GM vehicles and from what I've read & experienced is that they simply don't last much past 60K miles or so. Even if they don't fail immediately at that mileage, the ride quality dissipates quickly...

If your current shock(s) have actually failed or frozen up, you will be amazed at the improvement new magnaride shocks will have. Considering you purchased the truck @ 83K, you probably have yet to experience the magnetic ride system to its fullest.