What Is a Coilover? What Does It Do?

What Is a Coilover?

Also known as a coil spring shock absorber, coilovers are a type of suspension system for vehicles that combines the functions of a coil spring and a shock absorber into a single unit. The term “coilover” is a combination of “coil spring” and “over” (as in, over the shock absorber). It’s also known as an adjustable damper system. It’s a modification part used to adjust the suspension’s stiffness and the vehicle’s ride height.

Coilovers are a popular aftermarket upgrade for car enthusiasts who want more control over their car’s handling and ride height.

Coilovers typically consist of a coil spring surrounding a shock absorber mounted to the vehicle’s suspension. The spring and shock absorber are attached to an adjustable platform that allows the user to adjust the vehicle’s ride height and spring stiffness. By adjusting the height and stiffness, the driver can fine-tune the vehicle’s handling and ride comfort.

Which Vehicles Use Coilovers?

Coilovers are commonly used in racing and high-performance vehicles because they offer more adjustability and fine-tuning than traditional suspension systems. They’re also widely used in lowered street cars, which can adjust the car’s ride height while also providing greater handling precision and stability.

Spring and Damper Combination

A coilover combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into a single product, offering a compact and adjustable suspension solution.

Racing Use

Coilover systems are widely used in motorsports due to the flexibility they offer for quickly adjusting track cars.

Spring Rate

Coilover springs are sold with different stiffness (spring rate) options, expressed in kg/mm.

What Is a Coilover For?

Coilovers serve a variety of purposes, including the following:

Ride Height Adjustment: Coilovers allow the user to adjust the vehicle’s ride height, which can be useful for achieving a desired look or precisely tuning the vehicle’s handling. Lowering the car can improve handling and stability, while raising it can improve off-road capability.
Stiffness Adjustment: Coilovers also allow the user to adjust the spring’s stiffness, which can affect the vehicle’s handling and ride comfort. A stiffer spring provides better handling and a sportier feel, while a softer spring provides a more comfortable ride.
Improved Driving Experience: Coilovers offer more precise handling and stability than traditional suspension systems, which makes them popular among car enthusiasts and racers. By providing more control over the suspension, they can help the driver achieve more accurate and predictable handling.
Durability: Coilovers are designed to be more durable and long-lasting than traditional suspension systems, which can be beneficial for vehicles driven hard or used in racing.
Aesthetics: Coilovers can be used to lower the car and give it a sporty look, which is a popular aesthetic among car enthusiasts.

In summary, coilovers provide a higher level of adjustability and control over the vehicle’s suspension, which can improve the vehicle’s handling, ride comfort, and overall performance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coilovers

Question: Does a vehicle with coilovers pass inspection?
Answer: Currently, vehicles with coilovers (adjustable suspension systems) pass inspection without a defect being noted.

Question: Are coilovers comfortable?
Answer: Although coilovers can be adjusted to provide a comfortable ride, they may not offer the same level of comfort as a traditional suspension system, especially when set to be stiffer.

Question: Do coilovers void the warranty?
Answer: Basically, any part(s) of the vehicle affected by the modification fall outside the warranty. The warranty is voided for the portion connected to the part you installed. On a vehicle fitted with coilovers, you’d fall outside warranty coverage for issues related to the shock absorber.