Understanding Coilovers: Your Complete Guide to Adjustable Coilover Suspension
If you’re passionate about improving your car’s handling, performance, and overall ride quality, upgrading to 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 performance-focused daily drive, the right coilover suspension can completely change how your vehicle feels on the road.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about coilover suspension, and how they stand apart from standard suspension setups.
What Are Coilover Shocks?
A coilover (short for “coil spring over shock”) is a suspension system that combines 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 top choice among car enthusiasts who want a mix of comfort, control, and performance.
Why Install Coilovers?
Installing coilover shocks is more than just a cosmetic upgrade. Here’s why so many enthusiasts choose them:
1. Better Handling and Stability
Adjustable coilovers significantly minimize body roll, improve cornering grip, and ensure your tires stable during aggressive driving. Whether you’re cornering hard on the track or navigating city streets, a quality coilover system gives you unmatched stability.
2. Adjustable Ride Height
One of the biggest perks of adjustable coilovers is the ability to raise or lower 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 freedom you need.
3. Enhanced Performance on the Track
Because coilover suspension systems allow for customization 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 popular belief, coilovers aren’t just for racing. Many high-quality 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 on the other hand 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 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 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 coilover shocks road or track.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re aiming for sharper handling, more control, or just a more comfortable ride, adjustable 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.
Upgrade to a reliable coilover setup today and experience the difference every time you hit the road.