Coilovers Explained: A Beginner’s Guide to Coilover Suspension Systems
If you’re serious about improving your car’s control, performance, and overall ride quality, installing coilover suspension is one of the best moves you can make. Whether you’re a drift enthusiast, racing, or simply want a more comfortable and sportier daily drive, the right coilover setup can completely transform how your vehicle feels on the road.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about adjustable coilovers, and how they compare to standard suspension setups.
What Are Coilover Shocks?
A coilover shock (short for “coil spring over shock”) is a suspension system that combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into one compact unit. Unlike stock shocks and springs, adjustable coilovers are designed to give you advanced 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 popular 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. Improved Handling and Stability
Coilovers significantly minimize body roll, improve cornering grip, and keep your tires planted during aggressive driving. Whether you’re cornering hard on the track or driving through city streets, a quality coilover suspension gives you unmatched stability.
2. Adjustable Ride Height
One of the biggest perks of coilover suspension 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 coilover suspension daily driving, coilovers offer the flexibility you need.
3. Enhanced Performance on the Track
Because shocks with coilovers allow for adjustment of rebound and compression, you can customize 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 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: 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 complete 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 shopping for 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 superior angle, grip, and control on the road or track.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re focused on improving performance, more control, or just a more comfortable ride, adjustable coilovers are a transformative 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.
Switch to a high quality coilover setup today and feel the difference every time you hit the road.