Update August 19, 2025 | The Fox Performance Elite Series has expanded into the Off-Road division and is no longer limited to OEM applications. Please note that Performance Elite Series shocks no longer come standard with aluminum shock bodies or DSC adjusters.
Fox Performance Elite Series – New OEM Fit Shocks
Fox has introduced the Performance Elite Series, a new line of OEM fit shocks built for durability and long-lasting off-road performance. Paired with AccuTune custom valving, these shocks deliver unmatched ride quality and control, making them one of the best new options for off-road enthusiasts.
The Performance Elite Series is gradually replacing the Factory Race Series for OEM applications. Meanwhile, Fox is relaunching the Factory Race Series as a premium line, which will include high-end options such as 3.0 Internal Bypass Shocks.
Fox is continuing to expand the Performance Elite lineup, but the timeline and specific future applications are not yet known. For now, availability may vary depending on your vehicle. As always, we’ll keep our website updated with the latest options from Fox.
Branding Change – Part I
As shown above, the most noticeable difference between Factory Race Series and the new Performance Elite Series (PES) is the color change. The PES shocks now feature orange Fox branding, but it’s important not to assume that every Fox shock with orange decals is a Performance Elite Series shock.
Branding Change – Part II
Fox now uses orange branding on both Factory Race Series and Performance Elite Series shocks.
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Left: Factory Race Series shocks – built for universal fit and typically used in custom vehicle setups. These are not a direct bolt-in option for factory Truck/SUV mounts.
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Right: Performance Elite Series shocks – designed as OEM fit, making them a direct bolt-in for Truck/SUV applications.
To help differentiate, the orange decals are clearly labeled with either “Factory Race Series” or “Performance Elite Series.” Currently, all Performance Elite Series shocks are exclusive to Truck/SUV applications and are not intended for custom builds.
Shock Body
One of the key differences between Performance Elite Series (PES) and Factory Race Series (FRS) shocks is the construction material of the shock body:
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PES shocks: One-piece 6061-T6 aluminum body with hard anodized finish.
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FRS shocks: Zinc-plated steel body with a threaded aluminum top cap.
Both designs are strong and durable, built for extreme off-road use. However, the aluminum one-piece PES bodies offer superior corrosion resistance and better heat dissipation, making them ideal for high-speed runs on fire roads and challenging terrain.
Shock Body – Part II
The Performance Elite Series (PES) shock body is machined from a single piece of aluminum, with the top shock mount integrated into the main body.
In contrast, Factory Race Series (FRS) shocks feature a steel body with a threaded aluminum top cap/upper mount. This design allows the FRS top cap to be serviced or replaced separately, whereas a PES shock would require replacing the entire shock body if the top mount is damaged.
DSC Adjusters
The main difference here is color and availability. DSC Adjusters come standard on all Performance Elite Series (PES) shocks, while they are typically an optional upgrade on most Factory Race Series (FRS) shocks.
For more details on DSC Adjusters, click here.
Performance Elite Series – Reservoir Mounts
Fox has upgraded the reservoir mounting kits on all Performance Elite Series (PES) shocks. They now include billet aluminum clamps, replacing the traditional hose clamps used in the industry. This provides a stronger, more secure, and long-lasting mount for your reservoir.
Factory Race Series – Reservoir Mounts
Factory Race Series (FRS) shocks have long relied on hose clamps to secure the remote reservoir. Simple, effective, and proven over time.
Pistons
Depending on the vehicle, a different piston design may be used in a Performance Elite Series (PES) shock compared to its equivalent Factory Race Series (FRS) shock. We take this into account during tuning to ensure each shock delivers the best possible performance for your setup.
Seal Head
Factory Race Series (FRS) shocks use a two-piece rod guide, with the wiper installed in the bump cap and the remaining seals in the rod guide. The bump cap is secured with a set screw.
Performance Elite Series (PES) shocks feature a slightly different rod guide and bump cap design. All seals are contained within the rod guide, and the bump cap is retained using Loctite, which can make servicing slightly more involved.
PES Seals
Performance Elite Series (PES) shocks use a U-cup as the main rod seal, providing a more sophisticated design for improved durability. Both PES and Factory Race Series (FRS) shocks feature an H-wiper as a backup seal, along with a standard urethane wiper to keep the majority of dirt and debris out.
FRS Seals
Factory Race Series (FRS) shocks use a simple O-ring as the main rod seal. While basic, this design has proven reliable over years of off-road use.
Photo Above | Opening up a Performance Elite Series smooth body shock for a AccuTune revalve.
Photo Above | Opening up a Factory Race Series smooth body shock for a AccuTune revalve.
Which is Better: Performance Elite Series or Factory Race Series?
Both lines of Fox shocks deliver excellent performance, tunability, and durability, but they cater to slightly different needs:
Fox Factory Race Series (FRS)
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Time-tested and proven for long-term reliability.
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Offers excellent tunability and performance for a wide range of vehicles.
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Parts are readily available, making maintenance easier.
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Can come with or without DSC adjusters, allowing flexibility on price and features.
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A great option if you want a proven, budget-friendly setup. For example, pairing 2.5 FRS coilovers in front with 2.0 Performance Series rears gives an affordable, high-performing package.
Fox Performance Elite Series (PES)
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Latest iteration featuring aluminum one-piece bodies, a new sealing package, and updated pistons.
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Ideal for drivers in harsh environments—like snowy, salty roads or coastal areas—where corrosion resistance is important.
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Aluminum bodies resist corrosion, though some steel components on the shock are still susceptible.
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Positioned as a premium option, so they may not be the best choice if budget is a top priority.
Summary:
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Choose FRS for proven performance, availability, and affordability.
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Choose PES for the latest technology, corrosion resistance, and premium off-road performance.
So which shocks are you planning to get?
Sales@accutuneoffroad.com | 619-722-8555
Examples of Performance Elite Series Shocks available for purchase:
