Understanding Coilovers: A Beginner’s Guide to Coilover Suspension Systems
If you’re focused about improving your car’s handling, performance, and overall ride quality, switching to coilover suspension is one of the best moves you can make. Whether you’re a fan of drifting, track driving, or simply want a smoother and performance-focused daily drive, the right coilover setup can completely transform how your vehicle feels on the road.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about coilover suspension, and how they differ from standard suspension setups.
What Are Coilover Shocks?
A coilover suspension (short for “coil spring over shock”) is a suspension system that merges a coil spring and a shock absorber into one combined unit. Unlike stock shocks and springs, coilover shocks 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 common choice among car enthusiasts who want a mix of comfort, control, and performance.
Why Upgrade to Coilovers?
Installing coilover shocks is more than just a cosmetic upgrade. Here’s why so many car owners choose them:
1. Enhanced Handling and Stability
Coilover suspension significantly reduce body roll, boost cornering grip, and keep your tires planted during aggressive driving. Whether you’re taking sharp turns on the track or driving through city streets, a quality coilover suspension gives you unmatched 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 track-ready look or need more ground clearance for daily driving, coilovers offer the control you need.
3. Enhanced Performance on the Track
Because coilover shocks allow for adjustment of rebound and compression, you can tailor how your suspension responds under different driving conditions. That means better traction, more efficient weight transfer, and more consistent lap times.
4. Improved Ride Quality
Contrary to popular belief, coilovers aren’t just for racing. Many premium 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 adjustable coilovers?
Shocks with coilovers offer some performance benefits but are usually limited 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 obvious 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 coilover suspension 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 chasing better lap times, sharper handling, or just a more comfortable ride, coilover suspension are a game changing upgrade for any performance car. With the right coilover setup, you can adjust 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 setup today and notice the difference every time you hit the road.