All About Coilovers: A Beginner’s Guide to Coilover Suspension Systems
If you’re passionate about enhancing your car’s handling, power, and overall driving experience, installing coilovers is one of the most effective moves you can make. Whether you’re a drift enthusiast, track driving, or simply want a smoother and performance-focused daily drive, the right coilover shocks can completely transform how your vehicle feels on the road.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about adjustable coilovers, and how they compare to standard suspension setups.
What Are Coilovers?
A coilover shock (short for “coil spring over shock”) is a suspension system that integrates a coil spring and a shock absorber into one compact unit. Unlike stock shocks and springs, coilover shocks are designed to give you advanced 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 blend 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. Enhanced Handling and Stability
Adjustable coilovers significantly reduce body roll, boost cornering grip, and keep your tires gripping during aggressive driving. Whether you’re taking sharp turns on the track or navigating city streets, a quality coilover suspension gives you excellent stability.
2. Adjustable Ride Height
One of the biggest advantages of coilover shocks is the ability to adjust your vehicle to your ideal ride height. Whether you want a track-ready look 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 fine tuning of rebound and compression, you can customize 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 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: How do they differ 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 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 premium coilover suspension systems specifically engineered for drifting and high performance driving, giving you excellent 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, coilover suspension are a game changing 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 shocks with coilovers to a premium coilover setup today and notice the difference every time you hit the road.