What are the negatives of coilovers?
Coilovers are a popular suspension upgrade for many vehicles, offering improved handling, performance, and customization. However, there are some potential downsides to consider when choosing coilovers for your car. In this article, we'll explore the key negatives of coilovers and help you make an informed decision.
Increased Maintenance and Complexity
Coilovers are more complex than traditional suspension systems, requiring regular maintenance and adjustments to ensure optimal performance. This can include adjusting the spring preload, damping, and ride height, which can be time-consuming and require specialized knowledge. Improper installation or maintenance can lead to premature wear and tear, compromising the safety and handling of your vehicle.
Potential for Ride Discomfort
Coilovers are designed to provide a firmer, more responsive ride, which can be less comfortable than the stock suspension, especially on rough roads or over bumps. This can lead to a harsher, less forgiving ride quality, which may not be suitable for all drivers or driving conditions.
Increased Noise and Vibration
The stiffer suspension components of coilovers can transmit more road noise and vibration into the cabin, which can be unpleasant for the driver and passengers. This can be particularly noticeable on older or less well-maintained roads, and may require additional sound-dampening measures to mitigate.
Potential for Reduced Ride Height
Coilovers often lower the ride height of a vehicle, which can improve handling but may also reduce ground clearance. This can be a concern for drivers who frequently navigate rough terrain, speed bumps, or other obstacles, as the lowered suspension may increase the risk of scraping or bottoming out.
Higher Cost and Installation Complexity
Coilovers are generally more expensive than traditional suspension components, and the installation process can be more complex and time-consuming. This can make coilovers a less accessible option for some vehicle owners, especially those on a tight budget or with limited mechanical expertise.
In conclusion, while coilovers offer many benefits, it's important to carefully consider the potential negatives before making the upgrade. By understanding the increased maintenance requirements, potential for ride discomfort, and other drawbacks, you can make an informed decision that best suits your driving needs and preferences.
Are coilovers good for daily driving?
All depends on the car, the coilovers, the adjustments on the coilovers, and the rest of the suspension setup. But yes, there are plenty of people running coilovers on daily drivers. Some find them tolerable (or comfortable) some don't.
Do coilovers make ride bumpy?
It's true, coil-overs can result in a rough ride. If not set up properly you too could have a rough ride.
What is the life span of coilovers?
High-quality coilovers that are used under normal driving conditions and maintained properly can typically last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. For a daily driver, this can translate to roughly 4 to 7 years, assuming an average annual mileage of around 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
Do coilovers ruin ride quality?
Coilovers can have a significant impact on ride quality. However, it's important to note that coilovers themselves don't inherently make your car bumpy. Instead, it's the way they are set up and adjusted that determines the overall ride comfort.
What are the disadvantages of coilovers?
What are the Pros and Cons of Coilovers?
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers adjustable dampening and rebound | Higher cost and price tag, especially for more renowned brands |
| More controlled ride and handling compared with lowering springs | Improper configuration could lead to a stiff and uncomfortable ride |
What suspension gives the smoothest ride?
Air Suspension. Air suspension utilizes air springs instead of traditional coil or leaf springs. It allows for adjustable ride height and stiffness, providing a customizable and smooth ride. Air suspension can adapt to varying road conditions and load weights, ensuring optimal comfort and stability.
How long do coilovers usually last?
between 50,000 to 100,000 miles
Coilovers, short for "coil-over-shocks," combine coil springs and shock absorbers into a single suspension component. Well-maintained coilovers can last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles, which translates to about 4 to 7 years for daily-driven vehicles based on an average annual mileage of 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
Do coilovers ruin ball joints?
"This also means that the suspension can potentially bottom out on shock towers [and] wheelwells." According to Jackson, shorten that shock body enough and you'll also prematurely wear things out like ball joints, bushings, even CV joints.
Are coilovers high maintenance?
Coilovers require regular maintenance to uphold their performance, safety, and durability. By investing time and effort into their upkeep, drivers can enjoy a smoother ride, improved handling, and greater peace of mind on the road.
What is the life expectancy of coilovers?
between 50,000 to 100,000 miles
Coilovers, short for "coil-over-shocks," combine coil springs and shock absorbers into a single suspension component. Well-maintained coilovers can last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles, which translates to about 4 to 7 years for daily-driven vehicles based on an average annual mileage of 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
