Some of us have installed coilovers in our cars. Though coilovers are one of the most expensive upgrades available, we don’t mind doing it. That’s because they have many advantages over struts and shocks and may improve the performance and handling of our car. However, our car often gets many handling issues as the coilovers aren’t installed properly!
The wrong installation happens because there is much misinformation about the process in the industry. Surprisingly, even many manufacturers endorse the wrong methods to install coilovers. However, the fact is that it is very easy to install coilovers if you follow the right steps. Get your car better handling and save time and money by following the correct installation method.
What are coilovers? How does its installation help your car? Know in detail about coilovers and how to install coilovers.
What are coilovers?
Like shock absorbers, coilovers are suspension components that prevent your car from bottoming during driving. Coilovers help in reducing body roll as your car rounds corners and even offer a steadier ride letting you lower the car without rubbing the pavement while driving. Both coilovers and shock absorbers work on the same principle, with the major difference of a coil surrounding the strut. You can adjust the height of coilovers as the coil is mounted on an adjustable perch.
How do coilovers work?
Coilovers use both the technologies of coil springs and shock absorbers for their functioning, offering you a smooth and controlled drive. Coilovers come with a coil or spring covered around a shock absorber. The coil compresses when your car hits a bump, and the shock absorber pushes the spring back up for a comfortable ride when the road levels out again.
For those who love to get their car as low as possible, the coilover gives you a firmer drive as it is adjusted lower. It happens as the mainspring gets more compressed as the coilover is shortened, and more force exerts on the coilover’s top as you compress the spring further. As a result of this force, it becomes very difficult for the coilover to compress to match the road’s condition, offering a stiffer drive.
Tools required to install coilovers
These are some tools that you require while installing coilovers.
- Socket set
- Breaker bar
- Torque wrench
- Vehicle jack and stands
- Penetrating oil
- Measuring tape
- Anti-seize
- Hammer
- Coil spring compressor (if needed to remove coil springs)
- Replacement bushings if needed
- New hardware
How to install coilovers: Steps to follow
Measure the current ride height before you touch a bolt. Check and ensure that your car is on level ground. Measure from the center of the wheel to the bottom of the fender. It will be good if you can spray some penetrating oil on the bolts you’re working on the night before installing the coilovers. The correct steps to install coilovers may vary with each car. But here are a few general steps that you can follow to learn about how to install coilovers.
1. Remove the wheels
The initial step is to remove the wheels. To gain access to the suspension components, raise your car using a jack and remove the wheels. Ensure to check the owner’s manual to correctly locate the jacking points and where to place jack stands. Always use jack stands and never depend solely on the jack to support your vehicle. Make sure not to leave any part of your body under the vehicle longer than you have to.
2. Remove the struts
The next step is to remove the struts and coil springs. Normally, there will be a few bolts at the strut tower’s top, three around the perimeter, and one center nut for the strut shaft. There will also be one bolt at the strut’s bottom. You will have to remove some bolts from the upper or lower control arms to remove the strut assembly. You can also check and replace worn bushings at this time. Also, inspect the removed bolts and replace them if needed.
3. Install the coilovers
After removing the struts, install the coilovers. If you need to assemble the coilovers, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions that come with them. Although each coilover is alike, each manufacturer will put their spin on it. After installing, you can install and adjust the camber plate if one was there in the kit, along with any brake/ABS lines you loosened and swaybar end links.
Once installed, adjust the collars to get the coilover to the height you need. Check that each coilover on the same axle is at the same height and has the same amount of threads exposed.
4. Reinstall the wheels
Replace your wheels and tighten everything up. Once done, drive the vehicle for at least a few yards to settle the suspension and park your car on a level, flat area. Measure the ride height from the center of the wheel to the bottom of your fender again. Adjust the spring preload up or down from there based on your needs. Always follow the coilover manufacturer’s recommendations to know how high/low the preload can be adjusted.
5. Check the car’s alignment
Ensure to check your car’s alignment whenever you work on its suspension, especially when you loosen or unbolt the control arms. Realize that your car has alignment issues if its steering wheel isn’t centered while going straight or has poor handling in corners. It is best to re-torque the bolts you touched after driving a few distances.
What are the benefits of coilovers?
Knowing the benefits is as important as knowing how to install coilovers.
Improves handling: if installed properly, your car will get better handling. With coilovers, you can comfortably take sharp turns.
Can easily adjust: adjustable coilovers help lower and raise your car easily. So, whether going on for a long trip or to a car show, adjustable coilovers can easily raise and lower your car.
How long do coilovers take to install?
Normally, it takes around 3-4 hours to install coilovers.
How much is it to install coilovers?
The cost may vary based on the shop. On average, coilover installation can cost you around $300-500.
Gerard Stevens is an experienced writer specializing in travel and car ownership in the U.S. With over five years in this field, he strives to simplify travel and driving for his readers. Gerard offers valuable guidance on various topics, including car and travel guides, helping his audience feel more confident in navigating these challenges.
