All About Coilovers: A Beginner’s Guide to Modern Coilover Suspension
If you’re serious about upgrading your car’s control, performance, and overall ride quality, switching to coilover suspension is one of the most effective moves you can make. Whether you’re a drift enthusiast, racing, or simply want a more comfortable and sportier daily drive, the right coilover suspension can completely change how your vehicle feels on the road.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about coilover shocks, and how they compare to 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 traditional shocks and springs, coilovers are designed to give you more precise control over your car’s ride height, damping, and handling characteristics.
Because they bring together 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 car owners choose them:
1. Better Handling and Stability
Adjustable coilovers significantly reduce body roll, improve cornering grip, and keep your tires planted 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 benefits of adjustable coilovers is the ability to raise or lower your vehicle to your ideal ride height. Whether you want a lowered aggressive stance or need higher clearance for coilovers daily driving, coilovers offer the control you need.
3. Enhanced Performance on the Track
Because shocks with coilovers allow for customization of rebound and compression, you can customize how your suspension responds under different driving conditions. That means improved 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 smoother 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 in contrast 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 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 high-performance coilover suspension systems specifically engineered for drifting and high performance driving, giving you maximum angle, grip, and control on the road or track.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re focused on improving performance, sharper handling, or just a more comfortable ride, coilover suspension are a game changing upgrade for any performance car. With the right adjustable coilovers, 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 high quality coilover system today and notice the difference every time you hit the road.