When MagneRide or Adaptive Ride Control (ARC) fails, you are often choosing between a costly OEM repair or a more affordable conversion with a bypass module and conventional shocks. This guide compares costs, trade-offs, and why many owners opt for an OBD-II bypass solution.
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The High Price of OEM Repairs
Dealership replacement of magnetic or adaptive dampers is expensive. A single OEM magnetic shock/strut can run up to $1,000 per corner. With labor, recalibration, and alignment, all four corners commonly reach $3,000–$4,000+.
Real-World Example: Tahoe LTZ Owner
One 2015 Tahoe LTZ owner described ride quality as a “wood wagon.” After long frustration, he switched to standard shocks plus a ShockSims bypass kit. His total target budget (new shocks, module, and labor) was about $1,000, far less than dealer quotes.
The ShockSims Approach: OBD/SS Bypass + Conventional Shocks
ShockSims OBD/SS modules plug into the OBD-II port and communicate with the Suspension Control Module (SCM). That means fewer parts at each wheel and simpler installs.
- Reduced hardware: One cabin-mounted module instead of four corner plugs.
- Code suppression: Suppresses DTCs like C0575, C0580, C0585, C0590; manages ride-height/auto-leveling data.
- Flexibility: Detects which shocks are unplugged; works with partial conversions (front now, rear later).
- Plug-and-play: Minutes to install; powers down automatically to avoid battery drain.
For lifted/lowered builds that remove factory height sensors, add Ride Height Simulators (RHS) to feed valid signals to the SCM.
Cost Comparison Summary
| Option | Approx. Cost (per vehicle) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| OEM MagneRide replacement (dealer) | $4,000+ (parts + labor) | Restores factory adaptive features | Very expensive; electronics can fail again; labor-intensive |
| ShockSims OBD/SS module + aftermarket shocks | $335–$445 module + $500–$800 shocks | Single OBD module; no wiring; supports partial replacements | RHS needed if height sensors are removed for lift/lower |
Are There Downsides?
Deleting MagneRide removes adaptive damping. Ride quality depends on the replacement shocks/springs you choose. Most owners using quality coilovers or performance shocks report a slightly firmer but more consistent ride and zero warning lights or limp mode when paired with a ShockSims bypass module.
Conclusion & Next Steps
OEM adaptive systems ride great when new but are costly to maintain. Bypass modules like the ShockSims OBD/SS provide a cost-effective path that simplifies hardware and prevents DTCs.