Coilovers Explained: Your Complete Guide to Adjustable Coilover Suspension
If you’re focused about upgrading your car’s handling, performance, and overall ride quality, installing adjustable coilovers is one of the best 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 setup can completely transform how your vehicle feels on the road.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about coilover suspension, and how they differ from standard suspension setups.
What Are Coilover Shocks?
A coilover (short for “coil spring over shock”) is a suspension system that integrates a coil spring and a shock absorber into one combined unit. Unlike traditional shocks and springs, adjustable coilovers are designed to give you advanced 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 common choice among car enthusiasts who want a balance of comfort, control, and performance.
Why Upgrade to Coilovers?
Installing coilover suspension is more than just a cosmetic upgrade. Here’s why so many car owners choose them:
1. Enhanced Handling and Stability
Adjustable coilovers significantly reduce body roll, improve cornering grip, and keep your tires stable during aggressive driving. Whether you’re hitting tight corners on the track or driving through city streets, a quality coilover suspension gives you superior stability.
2. Adjustable Ride Height
One of the biggest advantages of adjustable coilovers 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 freedom 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 improved traction, more efficient weight transfer, and more consistent lap times.
4. Improved Ride Quality
Contrary to popular belief, coilovers adjustable coilovers aren’t just for racing. Many high-quality 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 basic in terms of customization.
Adjustable coilovers in contrast 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 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 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 aiming for sharper handling, sharper handling, or just a smoother ride, coilovers are a transformative 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 tailored to your style.
Switch to a high quality coilover suspension today and notice the difference every time you hit the road.