Are coilovers worth it on a truck?

Coilovers can be a worthwhile investment for trucks, providing improved handling, ride quality, and customization options. However, the decision to install coilovers on a truck depends on the specific needs and goals of the vehicle owner.

What are Coilovers?

Coilovers are a type of suspension system that combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into a single unit. They are designed to provide more adjustability and control over the vehicle's ride height and handling characteristics compared to traditional suspension setups.

Benefits of Coilovers on Trucks

• Improved Handling: Coilovers can enhance a truck's handling by allowing the driver to adjust the suspension's stiffness and damping, resulting in better cornering, braking, and overall responsiveness.


• Customizable Ride Height: Coilovers enable the owner to lower or raise the truck's ride height, which can improve the vehicle's appearance, aerodynamics, and off-road capabilities.


• Increased Durability: Coilovers are often more durable than stock suspension components, making them a suitable choice for trucks that are used for towing, hauling, or off-road driving.

These benefits can make coilovers a worthwhile investment for truck owners who want to enhance the performance and appearance of their vehicles.

Considerations for Installing Coilovers on a Truck

Before installing coilovers on a truck, there are several factors to consider:

• Cost: Coilovers can be more expensive than stock suspension components, and the installation process may also add to the overall cost.


• Ride Quality: While coilovers can improve handling, they may also result in a harsher ride, especially on rough roads or when the truck is heavily loaded.


• Compatibility: It's essential to ensure that the coilovers are compatible with the specific make, model, and year of the truck, as well as any other modifications or accessories installed on the vehicle.


• Maintenance: Coilovers may require more frequent maintenance and adjustments compared to stock suspension components, which can add to the long-term ownership costs.

Ultimately, the decision to install coilovers on a truck depends on the owner's priorities and the specific needs of the vehicle. It's recommended to consult with a professional suspension specialist to determine the best suspension setup for the truck.

What are the downsides of coilovers?

The main disadvantages of coilovers are higher cost, a potentially stiff or uncomfortable ride if not set up correctly, and complex installation that may require professional expertise. Additionally, they can reduce suspension travel and ground clearance, leading to a harsh ride if the vehicle is lowered too much, and some cheaper designs may be less durable under stress. 
Cost and installation

• High upfront cost: Quality coilovers are more expensive than standard or lowering spring setups.
• Expensive installation: Proper installation and adjustment require technical skill and can add to the overall cost. 

Ride quality and performance

• Stiff ride: If not properly adjusted, coilovers can result in a harsh and uncomfortable ride, especially with incorrect spring rates or low-quality components. 
• Reduced suspension travel: Lowering the vehicle's ride height reduces the available suspension travel, which can lead to the suspension hitting bump stops more often. 
• Potential for poor handling: Improper installation can compromise the car's handling and performance, making it less predictable, particularly on uneven surfaces. 

Durability and maintenance

• Durability concerns: Cheaper "sleeve-type" or low-quality coilovers may fail under harsh conditions, leading to safety issues. 
• Maintenance needs: They can require more frequent maintenance, such as periodic inspections and lubrication, to maintain optimal performance. 
• Limited lifespan: While some high-quality coilovers can last 50,000 to 100,000 miles with proper care, they eventually need to be rebuilt, which can be costly. 

Clearance and fitment

• Space requirements: Some coilover designs can be bulky, taking up more space and potentially interfering with other components like sway bars or electrical wiring. 
• Contact with other parts: If incorrectly installed, coilovers can make contact with other parts of the car, such as tires, or cause damage to other components. 

Are coilovers good for trucks?

Superior Ride Quality: Coil over lifts provide excellent damping and shock absorption, making them ideal for both on-road comfort and off-road performance. 2. Adjustability: Many coil over systems allow you to fine-tune the ride height and stiffness, giving you greater control over your truck's handling.

Do coilovers raise your truck?

When it comes to lifting a truck, most owners weigh two popular options: spacer lift kits or coilovers. Spacer kits are the most budget-friendly option, whereas coilovers have more upfront cost but with better performance, ride quality, and long-term value.

Are coilovers good for everyday driving?

Coilovers can be worth it for daily driving if you prioritize improved handling and aesthetics, and choose a high-quality, adjustable setup that you can tune for a comfortable ride. However, they can also make for a much harsher ride, potentially lower your car to the point of scraping, and require a significant investment to do well, making them a poor choice if your main concern is practicality and comfort. For many drivers, a set of quality lowering springs and matched performance shocks may be a better compromise. 
Pros of coilovers for daily driving

• Improved handling: Coilovers can provide a firmer, more responsive ride with less body roll, making your car feel more planted and confident in turns. 
• Adjustability: You can adjust the ride height to achieve a desired look and the damping to fine-tune the ride quality for different conditions. 
• Aesthetics: They allow you to lower your car for a sportier appearance. 

Cons of coilovers for daily driving

• Stiffer ride: Many coilovers, especially budget options, result in a harsh and uncomfortable ride that transmits more road imperfections into the cabin. 
• Lowered ride height: Drastically lowering your car can make it difficult to clear speed bumps, driveways, and other obstacles, and can be a constant hassle. 
• Higher cost: Good quality coilovers are expensive, and cheap options can lead to a poor experience, while a quality setup may require additional supporting modifications. 
• More maintenance: They require proper setup and adjustment to get the ride quality right, which can be a time-consuming process. 

Alternative for daily drivers

• Lowering springs and performance shocks: This setup can offer a great balance for daily driving, providing a better look and handling than stock without the extensive adjustability (and potential harshness) of a full coilover system.