Coilovers Explained: A Beginner’s Guide to Adjustable Coilover Suspension
If you’re focused about upgrading your car’s control, power, and overall ride quality, switching to coilovers is one of the most effective moves you can make. Whether you’re a drift enthusiast, racing, or simply want a smoother and sportier daily drive, the right coilover setup can completely change how your vehicle feels on the road.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about coilover suspension, and how they compare to standard suspension setups.
What Are Coilover Shocks?
A coilover (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, coilovers are designed to give you better 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 popular choice among car enthusiasts who want a balance of comfort, control, and performance.
Why Install Coilovers?
Installing coilover shocks is more than just a cosmetic upgrade. Here’s why so many performance drivers choose them:
1. Better Handling and Stability
Coilovers significantly reduce body roll, improve cornering grip, and ensure your tires planted during aggressive driving. Whether you’re cornering hard 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 perks of coilover suspension is the ability to adjust your vehicle to your preferred ride height. Whether you want a lowered aggressive stance or need higher 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 optimize how your suspension responds under different driving conditions. That means better traction, optimized weight transfer, and more consistent lap times.
4. Improved Ride Quality
Contrary to popular belief, coilovers aren’t just for racing. Many modern 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 sets them apart between standard shocks with coil springs and fully adjustable coilovers?
Shocks with coilovers offer some performance benefits but are usually basic 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 best choice.
Tips for Choosing the Right Coilover Suspension
Before you upgrade, here’s what to keep in mind when buying 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, shocks with coilovers 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, 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 tailored to your style.
Upgrade to a high quality coilover system today and feel the difference every time you hit the road.