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Suspension - Air vs Coilovers vs Springs

Looking to achieve that slammed look and have your car handling like a pro? First, you need to contend with the age-old debate that continues to divide the modified car community - air bags, springs or coilovers?

Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages to all three options. Deciding what’s best for you and your car is the first step towards improving your ride.

Why Should I Lower My Car?

The majority of drivers who choose to lower their cars do so mainly for aesthetic purposes, favouring a sleek, streamlined appearance. A lower proximity to the road naturally makes a vehicle more aerodynamic, meaning they are more stable and manoeuvrable when travelling at higher speeds. Due to a lower centre of gravity - hence, reduced weight transfer - lowering can also increase your acceleration.

Although aerodynamics may improve, lowering your car will not make it faster. Some lowered car owners might attempt to convince you otherwise, but a car is only as fast as its horsepower and torque output.

Disadvantages

Whilst driving your lowered car, you may run into difficulty on rough terrain. UK roads are notoriously littered with potholes - care and attention is vital to avoid them, as contact with the road can seriously damage the underside of your car. The same vigilance is needed when contending with speed bumps, which are renowned enemies of lowered vehicles.

Air Suspension

Air sustention is the advisable option for everyday road use and for those who want a little more flexibility with their ride. Air bag suspension, also referred to as “air ride”, is a system powered by an electric pump or compressor, replacing your car’s OEM suspension to support its weight. With the use of a control panel, air is pumped from a tank into flexible bellows to vary the height of the car at will.

Pros

  • Optimal driver and passenger comfort due to reduced noise and vibration.
  • A control panel allows for easy height adjustment.
  • Keeps wheels even when carrying heavy loads or multiple passengers.
  • You can avoid damage on rough terrain.

Cons

  • Air ride can be more costly compared to its suspension system counterparts.
  • Additional weight can lead to reduced fuel economy.
  • Many moving parts mean an increased likelihood of malfunction.
  • Air struts have been known to develop leaks.

Coilovers

Coilovers - an abbreviation of “coil-over shock absorber” are used to lower your car’s centre of gravity whilst preventing contact with the road below. The system consists of a coil spring that covers the shock or strut - these parts work in unison to absorb impact from the wheels. Manufacturers such as Tein offer coilovers with adjustable dampers for maximum shock absorption. Excellent for performance-based driving, coilovers are an ideal option for track use.

Pros

  • Most favour coilovers for their improved handling.
  • Adjustable rebound and compression damping.
  • More durable than air ride.
  • You have many choices within the coilover market, making them relatively cost-effective depending on your desired outcome.

Cons

  • Unlike the panel-controlled air ride, coilover height adjustability is defined by how handy you are with a wrench.
  • Coilovers can constitute a stiff ride.
  • This suspension method will likely take up quite a bit of room under the frame of your car.
  • Cheap, poorly made coilovers can be dangerous due to unreliability.

Springs

Arguably the more basic system - lowering springs replace your car’s shock springs to lower the overall chassis height by 30mm-60mm. It is advisable to couple lowering springs with performance shocks for extra stability. Springs are a popular option for casual drivers and may not be as suitable for track use compared to coilovers.

Pros

  • Springs are an excellent budget option.
  • Simple application makes for a quick and efficient way to lower your car.
  • Comfortable and smooth for everyday street driving.

Cons

  • Lack of adjustability means you’re confined to one height.
  • A bumpier ride on rougher terrain leads to an increased risk of damage.
  • The inability to cope with heavier loads can cause your car to bottom out.
  • Less of a comfortable ride than is offered with other suspension systems.

With suspension options, there is no one-size-fits-all. Ultimately, your choice of lowering method is entirely personal and should suit your budget, lifestyle and preference.

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