Understanding Coilovers: The Ultimate Guide to Coilover Suspension Systems
If you’re focused about improving your car’s handling, power, and overall driving experience, installing coilover suspension 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 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 differ from standard suspension setups.
What Are Coilovers?
A coilover shock (short for “coil spring over shock”) is a suspension system that merges a coil spring and a shock absorber into one single unit. Unlike traditional shocks and springs, adjustable coilovers are designed to give you more precise 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 mix of comfort, control, and performance.
Why Install Coilovers?
Installing coilover suspension is more than just a cosmetic upgrade. Here’s why so many enthusiasts choose them:
1. Improved Handling and Stability
Adjustable coilovers significantly minimize body roll, boost cornering grip, and ensure your tires planted during aggressive driving. Whether you’re hitting tight corners on the track or driving through city streets, a quality set of coilovers gives you superior stability.
2. Adjustable Ride Height
One of the biggest benefits of coilover suspension is the ability to adjust your vehicle to your preferred ride height. Whether you want a lowered aggressive stance or need more ground clearance for daily driving, coilovers offer the control you need.
3. Enhanced Performance on the Track
Because shocks with coilovers allow for fine tuning 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 high-quality coilovers are engineered for both performance and comfort, delivering a more stable and more controlled ride even on rough roads.
Adjustable Coilovers vs Standard Shocks with Coilovers
You might be wondering: How do they differ between standard shocks with coil springs and fully coilover 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 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 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 focused on improving performance, more control, or just a more comfortable ride, coilovers are a powerful upgrade for any performance car. With the right coilover setup, you can customize every aspect of your suspension setup, from ride height to damping, and enjoy a driving experience that’s perfectly tuned to your style.
Switch to a high quality coilover system today and notice the difference every time you hit the road.