Understanding Coilovers: A Beginner’s Guide to Adjustable Coilover Suspension
If you’re passionate about upgrading your car’s handling, performance, and overall ride quality, switching to coilover suspension is one of the best moves you can make. Whether you’re a drift enthusiast, track driving, or simply want a more comfortable and performance-focused daily drive, the right coilover setup 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 differ from standard suspension setups.
What Are Adjustable Coilovers?
A coilover (short for “coil spring over shock”) is a suspension system that merges a coil spring and a shock absorber into one single unit. Unlike stock shocks and springs, coilover shocks 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 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. Enhanced Handling and Stability
Adjustable coilovers significantly reduce body roll, boost cornering grip, and ensure your tires gripping during aggressive driving. Whether you’re taking sharp turns on the track or navigating city streets, a quality set of coilovers gives you superior stability.
2. Adjustable Ride Height
One of the biggest benefits of coilover suspension is the ability to adjust your vehicle to your preferred ride height. Whether you want a track-ready look or need higher clearance for daily driving, coilovers offer the control you need.
3. Enhanced Performance on the Track
Because coilover shocks allow for fine tuning 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: 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 on the other hand allow you to fine tune your ride height, damping, and stiffness, giving you complete control over how your coilover suspension 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 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 premium 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 chasing better lap times, more control, or just a more comfortable ride, adjustable coilovers are a powerful upgrade for any performance car. With the right adjustable coilovers, you can fine tune every aspect of your suspension setup, from ride height to damping, and enjoy a driving experience that’s perfectly optimized to your style.
Upgrade to a premium coilover system today and feel the difference every time you hit the road.