Coilovers Explained: A Beginner’s Guide to Adjustable Coilover Suspension
If you’re serious about upgrading your car’s handling, performance, and overall driving experience, installing coilovers is one of the smartest moves you can make. Whether you’re a fan of drifting, track driving, or simply want a more comfortable and sportier daily drive, the right coilover setup can completely transform how your vehicle feels on the road.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about coilover suspension, and how they compare to standard suspension setups.
What Are Adjustable Coilovers?
A coilover suspension (short for “coil spring over shock”) is a suspension system that integrates a coil spring and a shock absorber into one single unit. Unlike stock shocks and springs, coilovers are designed to give you better control over your car’s ride height, damping, and handling characteristics.
Because they merge both the spring and shock into one adjustable system, coilovers are a common choice among car enthusiasts who want a balance of comfort, control, and performance.
Why Upgrade to Coilovers?
Installing coilover suspension is more than just a cosmetic upgrade. Here’s why so many enthusiasts choose them:
1. Improved Handling and Stability
Coilover suspension significantly minimize body roll, boost cornering grip, and keep your tires planted during aggressive driving. Whether you’re cornering hard on the track or driving through city streets, a quality set of coilovers gives you unmatched stability.
2. Adjustable Ride Height
One of the biggest perks of adjustable coilovers is the ability to adjust your vehicle to your ideal ride height. Whether you want a lowered aggressive stance or need more ground clearance for daily driving, coilovers offer the flexibility you need.
3. Enhanced Performance on the Track
Because coilover suspension systems allow for customization of rebound and compression, you can optimize how your suspension responds under different driving conditions. That means improved traction, more efficient weight transfer, and faster lap times.
4. Improved Ride Quality
Contrary to popular belief, coilovers aren’t just for racing. Many modern coilovers are engineered for both performance and comfort, delivering a refined and more controlled ride even on rough roads.
Adjustable Coilovers vs Standard Shocks with Coilovers
You might be wondering: What sets them apart between standard shocks with coil springs and fully adjustable coilovers?
Shocks with coilovers offer some performance benefits but are usually restricted in terms of customization.
Adjustable coilovers in contrast allow you to fine tune your ride height, damping, and stiffness, giving you total control over how your car handles and feels.
If performance, handling, and customization are priorities for you, adjustable coilovers are the best choice.
Tips for Choosing the Right Coilover Suspension
Before you upgrade, here’s what to keep in coilover suspension mind when shopping for coilovers:
✅ Vehicle compatibility: Always choose a setup designed specifically for your car’s make and model.
✅ Adjustability: Look for options that allow you to fine tune ride height and damping.
✅ Quality: Invest in high quality coilovers from trusted manufacturers. They’ll perform better and last longer.
✅ Purpose: Decide whether your focus is daily driving, drifting, or competitive racing.
Brands like SLR Speed
offer high-performance coilover suspension systems specifically engineered for drifting and high performance driving, giving you superior angle, grip, and control on the road or track.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re focused on improving performance, more control, or just a smoother ride, coilovers are a powerful upgrade for any performance car. With the right adjustable coilovers, you can customize every aspect of your suspension setup, from ride height to damping, and enjoy a driving experience that’s perfectly optimized to your style.
Upgrade to a reliable coilover setup today and experience the difference every time you hit the road.