How hard is it to put on lowering springs?
Lowering springs are a doable project for a capable DIYer, but it’s not a quick, plug‑and‑play upgrade. Plan a full day or more, and consider hiring a shop if you’re new to suspension work.
What lowering springs do and what to expect
Lowering springs replace the factory springs with shorter, stiffer units to drop the car’s ride height. Typical drops range from about 1 to 2 inches (25–50 mm), though the exact figure depends on the vehicle and the spring rate. Benefits often include a more aggressive stance and reduced body roll, while drawbacks can include a harsher ride, potential tire rubbing, and changes to suspension geometry that may affect alignment and comfort. Some setups are spring-only, while others pair springs with new shocks or coilovers, which changes both the effort required and the overall ride dynamics.
How hard is the installation?
Several factors determine the difficulty of installing lowering springs. The car’s suspension layout, whether you’re swapping just springs or also replacing shocks/struts, your tool access, and your mechanical experience all play a role.
- Suspension layout and design: front MacPherson struts vs. multi-link rear, presence of integrated dampers, and whether the springs sit in a housing or with a separate shock.
- Spring type and kit type: spring-only kits are lighter on work but may limit handling gains; full coilover or strut-and-spring kits can be more involved but offer adjustability.
- Amount of drop and space constraints: larger drops can impact clearance under speed bumps, fender/rubber, and brake/components, making the job harder.
- Tools and equipment: you’ll typically need a floor jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, appropriate wrenches, and a coil-spring compressor or other spring-release tools.
- Your experience and comfort with suspension work: basic wrenching helps, but working with compressed springs and suspension components demands care and precision.
In practice, the difficulty is typically described as moderate to difficult. If you’re comfortable with mechanical tasks, you can manage with careful planning and the right tools; if you’re unsure, a professional installation is advisable.
Time, tools, and approach
Time estimates and the necessary tools vary by vehicle and kit, but here’s a general guide to what to expect.
- Prepare the workspace and tools: a flat surface, floor jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, lug wrench, torque wrench, impact or ratchets, and a coil-spring compressor if you’re servicing springs while they’re under tension.
- Safety setup: disconnect the battery if you’ll be near sensors or electronics, and ensure the car cannot roll. Wear eye protection and gloves.
- Remove wheels and access suspension components: loosen fasteners, then remove wheels to expose the springs.
- Front suspension work: depending on design, detach the strut from the knuckle or access the upper/lower mounts, relieve spring tension with a compressor, remove the old spring, and install the new one. Reassemble with correct torque specs.
- Rear suspension work: similarly access and swap springs, reassemble, and torque fasteners to spec.
- Reinstall wheels and lower the car: gradually bring the car down and snug fasteners at proper torque.
- Alignment and test: get a professional alignment or verify camber/toe settings, then take the car for a cautious short drive to check for rubbing or noises.
- Final checks: re-check torque after a short break‑in period and address any clearance issues or chatter.
Expect a typical two‑axle job to take roughly a full workday for a first-timer, and perhaps 4–8 hours for someone with suspension experience. If you’re replacing shocks/struts or dealing with a particularly tight chassis, add time accordingly. Don’t skip the alignment, as even small changes can alter handling and tire wear.
Safety and professional considerations
Suspension work involves stored energy in springs and critical safety components, so follow strict safety practices. If you’re uncertain about any step, or your car has complicated electronics, it’s prudent to involve a professional.
- Always support the vehicle with jack stands on a solid surface; never rely on a floor jack alone.
- Use a proper coil-spring compressor and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid sudden releases.
- Wear eye protection and gloves; keep bystanders clear of the work area.
- Check for any fault codes or sensor recalibration needs after installation and ensure an accurate alignment.
For many drivers, the safest route is to have a shop perform the install, especially if you lack the exact tools or comfort level with suspension work. A professional installation can also help ensure the ride height and geometry are appropriate for tire clearance and road conditions.
Summary
Lowering springs offer a budget-friendly way to change a car’s stance and handling, but the installation is not a casual, one-hour upgrade. The difficulty depends on the vehicle, kit type, and your mechanical experience. Plan for a full day or more, invest in proper tools, and prioritize safety and alignment. If you’re unsure, or if your vehicle has advanced electronics or tight tolerances, a professional installation is a wise choice to preserve ride quality, handling, and warranty considerations.
Bottom line
With the right preparation, tools, and patience, installing lowering springs can be rewarding and deliver noticeable gains in appearance and handling. If you value peace of mind and precise alignment, weigh a pro install against the potential learning curve and time commitment.
