Coilovers Explained: A Beginner’s Guide to Adjustable Coilover Suspension
If you’re passionate about improving your car’s handling, performance, and overall ride quality, installing coilovers is one of the smartest moves you can make. Whether you’re a fan of drifting, track driving, or simply want a more comfortable and sportier daily drive, the right coilover shocks 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 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 standard shocks and springs, adjustable coilovers are designed to give you advanced 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 mix of comfort, control, and performance.
Why Choose 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
Coilover suspension significantly minimize body roll, boost cornering grip, and keep your tires planted during aggressive driving. Whether you’re taking sharp turns on the track or driving through 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 track-ready look or need more ground 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 optimize 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 modern 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 basic in terms of customization.
Adjustable coilovers on the other hand 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 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 excellent angle, coilover suspension grip, and control on the road or track.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re focused on improving performance, 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.
Upgrade to a high quality coilover suspension today and notice the difference every time you hit the road.