Coilovers are a type of suspension system used in vehicles to improve handling and performance. They consist of a coil spring and shock absorber that are combined in a single unit, which can be adjusted to change the ride height of the vehicle. Coilovers are popular among car enthusiasts and professional racers because of their ability to provide a customisable ride height and damping settings.
Coilovers differ from stock suspension in several ways:
- They offer adjustable ride height and damping, which allows for greater customization of the suspension system
- They are designed to be stiffer than stock suspension, providing better handling and stability
- They often come with stronger and more durable components, such as thicker springs and larger shocks, which can withstand the rigours of high-performance driving
They also come with a wealth of benefits that we will discuss below.
What are the advantages of coilovers?
Improved handling and performance
One of the advantages of coilovers is improved handling and performance by allowing for greater adjustability and control over the suspension system. The ability to adjust the ride height, damping, and spring rate allows for a more precise setup tailored to specific driving conditions and preferences.
By lowering the centre of gravity, coilovers can improve cornering and reduce body roll, leading to more predictable and stable handling. The ability to fine-tune the damping can also improve responsiveness and provide a smoother ride over rough surfaces.
Adjustable ride height
Another benefit of coilovers is that they provide adjustable ride height through a threaded shock body that can be adjusted up or down on the coilover assembly.
By turning the adjusting collar on the threaded shock body, the spring perch can be moved up or down, which changes the distance between the upper mount and the spring perch, thus changing the overall ride height.
This adjustability allows for precise fine-tuning of the car's suspension, giving drivers the ability to lower or raise the car's ride height as desired.
Enhanced stability and balance
Coilovers provide enhanced stability and balance by allowing for adjustability in both ride height and damping. This adjustability allows for a more precise and customisable suspension setup, which can improve a car's handling and performance on the road or track.
By lowering the car's centre of gravity and reducing body roll, coilovers can help improve traction and stability in corners. Additionally, the ability to adjust damping can allow for better control over weight transfer, which can help maintain balance and prevent understeer or oversteer.
Better ride comfort
Another advantage of coilovers is that they can provide better ride comfort by allowing drivers to adjust the damping and rebound rates of their vehicle's suspension. This means that the shocks can be tuned to better absorb bumps in the road and provide a smoother ride. Additionally, coilovers can provide a more comfortable ride by allowing drivers to adjust the ride height of their vehicle.
By raising or lowering the vehicle, drivers can fine-tune the suspension to their desire. However, it's important to note that improper installation or adjustment of coilovers can lead to a harsh or uncomfortable ride. It's best to consult with a professional or knowledgeable mechanic when installing coilovers for optimal comfort and performance.
Long-term cost savings
Coilovers can provide long-term cost savings by allowing for more precise adjustments and customisations. With coilovers, you can fine-tune your suspension to fit your driving style and environment, which can lead to improved fuel efficiency and reduced tire wear.
Additionally, because coilovers are designed to last longer than traditional suspension systems, you may not need to replace them as often, which can save you money in the long run. Furthermore, investing in high-quality coilovers upfront can also prevent damage to other parts of your car's suspension system, which can be costly to repair or replace.
How do I get the most out of the benefit out of my coilovers?
Proper installation and maintenance of coilovers are crucial to ensuring optimal performance and safety. Here are some tips and best practices for installing and maintaining coilovers:
Follow manufacturer's instructions
It is important to follow the manufacturer's advice regarding coilovers because they are designed and tested to work with specific vehicles and components. If you install coilovers incorrectly or use ones that are not designed for your vehicle, it can lead to a number of issues such as reduced performance, handling problems, and even safety concerns.
The manufacturer's advice also includes guidelines on installation and maintenance, which can affect the longevity and reliability of the coilovers. By following the manufacturer's advice, you can ensure that your coilovers function optimally and safely, and that you get the most out of your investment.
Seek professional installation
It is important to seek professional advice and installation when dealing with coilovers because they are a crucial component of your vehicle's suspension system. Proper installation and adjustment of coilovers require technical knowledge and experience to ensure that they are properly aligned and adjusted for optimal performance and safety.
Improper installation or adjustment can lead to serious safety risks such as loss of control, uneven tire wear, and even accidents. Additionally, many coilover manufacturers require professional installation to maintain warranty coverage.
Regular maintenance
Regular maintenance is important for coilovers because they are a vital component of a car's suspension system and can wear out over time due to constant use, exposure to the elements, and other factors.
Neglecting maintenance can lead to poor performance, reduced handling, and even safety issues. Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of the coilovers and ensure they are functioning properly, providing optimal handling and performance.
Proper adjustment
Proper adjustment of coilovers is important because it directly affects the car's handling, ride quality, and overall performance. If the coilovers are not adjusted properly, the car may have poor handling characteristics, excessive body roll, poor ride quality, and reduced grip on the road.
Additionally, incorrect adjustment can put additional stress on suspension components and increase the likelihood of premature wear or failure. It is crucial to follow manufacturer instructions and seek professional help if needed to ensure proper adjustment of coilovers.
What are the disadvantages of installing coilovers improperly?
Improper installation of coilovers can lead to a range of safety issues and potential damage to the vehicle. If the coilovers are installed incorrectly, they can affect the suspension geometry and lead to poor handling, increased tire wear, and reduced performance.
Some of the specific dangers of improper coilover installation include:
Suspension failure
If the coilovers are not installed correctly, the suspension system may fail, causing the car to lose control or have a more difficult time staying on the road.
Steering problems
Installing coilovers incorrectly can lead to steering issues that can be dangerous on the road. These can include alignment problems, steering pull, and steering instability.
Increased wear and tear
Improperly installed coilovers can cause unnecessary wear and tear on the vehicle's tires, brakes, and other parts, which can be costly to repair or replace.
Reduced performance
If the coilovers are not installed correctly, they may not perform as expected, reducing the car's overall performance and handling.
To avoid these dangers, it is important to ensure that coilovers are installed by a qualified professional and maintained properly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
How can I get coilovers from Supashock?
Once you decide you want coilovers from Supashock, we’re very easy to get a hold of. You can contact us by;
- Calling us on the phone at +61 08 8333 1123
- Emailing us at info@supashock.com
- Visiting us at 2-6 Ardtornish St, Holden Hill, SA 5088
Not only will we help you find the perfect coilovers, but we will answer any questions you have.
