Understanding Coilovers: The Ultimate Guide to Coilover Suspension Systems
If you’re focused about improving your car’s handling, performance, and overall ride quality, installing coilovers is one of the smartest moves you can make. Whether you’re a drift enthusiast, track driving, or simply want a more comfortable and sportier daily drive, the right coilover shocks can completely change how your vehicle feels on the road.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about coilover shocks, and how they stand apart from standard suspension setups.
What Are Adjustable Coilovers?
A coilover (short for “coil spring over shock”) is a suspension system that merges a coil spring and a shock absorber into one compact unit. Unlike standard shocks and springs, adjustable coilovers are designed to give you better control over your car’s ride height, damping, and handling characteristics.
Because they combine both the spring and shock into one adjustable system, coilovers are a popular choice among car enthusiasts who want a mix of comfort, control, and performance.
Why Choose Coilovers?
Installing coilover suspension is more than just a cosmetic upgrade. Here’s why so many car owners choose them:
1. Enhanced Handling and Stability
Coilovers significantly reduce body roll, improve cornering grip, and ensure your tires stable during aggressive driving. Whether you’re cornering hard on the track or driving through city streets, a quality coilover system gives you excellent stability.
2. Adjustable Ride Height
One of the biggest advantages of coilover suspension is the ability to adjust your vehicle to your ideal ride height. Whether you want a lowered aggressive stance or need higher clearance for daily driving, coilovers offer the freedom you need.
3. Enhanced Performance on the Track
Because shocks with coilovers allow for fine tuning of rebound and compression, you can tailor how your suspension responds under different driving conditions. That means better traction, optimized weight transfer, and faster lap times.
4. Improved Ride Quality
Contrary to coilover suspension popular belief, coilovers aren’t just for racing. Many premium 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’s the difference 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 however allow you to fine tune your ride height, damping, and stiffness, giving you full control over how your car handles and feels.
If performance, handling, and customization are priorities for you, adjustable coilovers are the clear choice.
Tips for Choosing the Right Coilover Suspension
Before you upgrade, here’s what to keep in mind when choosing 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 top-tier 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 chasing better lap times, more control, or just a more comfortable ride, adjustable coilovers are a transformative 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 tailored to your style.
Upgrade to a high quality coilover setup today and notice the difference every time you hit the road.