Coilovers Explained: A Beginner’s Guide to Adjustable Coilover Suspension
If you’re serious about improving your car’s handling, performance, and overall driving experience, upgrading to adjustable coilovers is one of the best moves you can make. Whether you’re a fan of drifting, racing, or simply want a smoother and performance-focused daily drive, the right coilover shocks can completely change how your vehicle feels on the road.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about coilover shocks, and how they compare to standard suspension setups.
What Are Coilovers?
A coilover (short for “coil spring over shock”) is a suspension system that combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into one combined unit. Unlike standard shocks and springs, coilover shocks are designed to give you more precise 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 balance of comfort, control, and performance.
Why Choose Coilovers?
Installing coilover shocks is more than just a cosmetic upgrade. Here’s why so many car owners choose them:
1. Better Handling and Stability
Adjustable coilovers significantly cut body roll, enhance cornering grip, and keep your tires stable during aggressive driving. Whether you’re taking sharp turns on the track or navigating city streets, a quality set of coilovers gives you excellent stability.
2. Adjustable Ride Height
One of the biggest benefits of coilover shocks is the ability to raise or lower 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 shocks with coilovers allow for customization of rebound and compression, you can optimize how your suspension responds under different driving conditions. That means improved traction, optimized 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: What sets them apart 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 on the other hand allow you to fine adjustable coilovers tune your ride height, damping, and stiffness, giving you complete 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 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 top-tier 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, sharper handling, or just a smoother ride, adjustable coilovers are a powerful upgrade for any performance car. With the right coilover shocks, 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 system today and experience the difference every time you hit the road.