Springs vs. Coilovers

So what’s the difference between springs and coilovers?  This is a common question among those new to the performance scene.  Both springs and coilovers allow you to get that lower, aggressive stance you may be looking for, but the two are very different.  In this article, we’ll break down the difference.

Springs

Lowering springs come in a variety of heights and completely replace your stock springs. Like a lot of modifications, they come with a set of pros and cons.  On the plus side, lowering springs allow you to lower your car without breaking the bank.  It can be an extremely cost effective solution for dropping your ride down a few notches.  The downside, unfortunately, to lowering springs is that they are a set height that cannot be adjusted.  There is no flexibility once you decide your ride’s height.  Additionally, running the lowering springs as a replacement to your stock suspension puts more pressure on it than it was designed to take.

Black = stock spring
Red = lowering spring

Coilovers

Coilovers are an aftermarket suspension upgrade that will increase your cars handling.  The name “coilover” stems from the modification being a coil spring over a shock absorber.   Inside the shock absorber is a piston in oil, protected by a dust guard.   A bump stop is located on top of the dust guard to prevent metal on metal contact, and the bump stop is especially important if your car is very low.

One of the main reasons people buy coilovers is so that they are able to adjust the ride height. You can adjust the coilovers to a variety of heights. Provided wrenches allow you to spin and adjust up and down the threads on the shock tower, compressing or releasing the spring, and allowing you to raise the car up or lower it down.  All and all, coilovers are a bit more expensive, but they give you more options when it comes to your ride height.