Air Suspension
Lowering springs are special springs used to replace stock springs that are initially installed by the vehicle manufacturer (OEM). They are normally shorter in height, reducing the height between the frame and the suspension system. This way, the body of the car can rest further downwards and closer to the wheels to reduce the centre of gravity. As a result, the vehicle becomes more "planted", and the lower rider appearance creates a more stanced look. Lowering springs reduce the car's arch gap, i.e., the distance between the edge of the wheel well and the top of the tire. If you can fit your head in between the arch and the tyre you need lowering springs (unless you are going for the lifted look in a pickup)
When buying Lowering springs measure the distance between the top of the arch and the car's tyres to see how low you can go without rubbing. Buying a spring whose lowering is greater than this distance is will cause rubbing of the arch liners and from experience it sounds awful driving around in a car that rubs. Add an extra inch to allow for movement and body roll (unless you are going for the superlow look). When purchasing Lowering Springs, bear in mind that over time the shock may wear as it's not operating normally. Some companies like KW have adjustable lowering springs, these are ideal as you can set the ride height up perfectly. These are great for cars with active dampers like the Nissan GT-R.
Lowering springs come in different types designed for specific performance needs:
Beyond enhancing a vehicle's appearance by reducing wheel well gap, lowering springs improve aerodynamic efficiency by decreasing undercar airflow, which reduces drag. This modification can also lead to a firmer ride, reduced body roll, and improved handling characteristics. Considerations after installation include:
The amount of drop varies massively depending on the spring kit and your vehicle. Most kits offer around 1 to 2 inches, which is a good balance between improved looks/handling and maintaining decent ride quality.
Some aggressive kits can go lower – up to 3 or even 4 inches – but that often requires additional modifications like shorter shocks/struts and potentially adjusting other suspension components. Dropping too low without proper supporting mods can lead to rubbing, bottoming out, and a terrible ride.
Pay attention to the spring rate too. A higher spring rate means less body roll, but also a harsher ride. Consider your driving style – track days demand stiffer springs, while daily drivers benefit from something more comfortable. Read product descriptions carefully!
It *can* be, but I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re seriously comfortable working on car suspension. It’s not like swapping brake pads.
You'll need spring compressors – those are non-negotiable and can be dangerous if used incorrectly. You also need a good set of tools (sockets, wrenches, torque wrench), jack stands, and ideally an impact gun. The biggest challenge is dealing with rusted bolts and the force required to compress and install the springs.
If you’re unsure about any part of the process, pay a professional. Suspension components are safety-critical, and messing it up can have serious consequences. Seriously—don't risk your life or others over saving a few bucks.
Okay, so the price of getting lowering springs installed can vary *wildly*. Expect anywhere from $300 to $800+, depending on your location, the shop’s labor rate, and whether you need any additional work.
The biggest cost factor is usually alignment. Lowering springs change suspension geometry, so a proper four-wheel alignment is absolutely essential afterward – budget around $150-$200 for that. Some shops will bundle installation *and* alignment into one price. You might also need to replace your shocks/struts if they’re old or worn; the lowered ride height puts extra stress on them.
Don't cheap out on this. A bad install can ruin the springs and lead to handling issues, so find a reputable shop with experienced technicians.
Lowering springs, let's be honest, are about more than just looks – though they definitely improve those. They reduce the ride height of your car, bringing the centre of gravity closer to the ground. This does a few key things.
Firstly, it improves handling. Less body roll in corners means sharper turn-in and more control. Secondly, it reduces wheel gap, making your car look more aggressive. But it’s not just aesthetics; reducing that space can improve aerodynamics slightly. Finally, they often offer a stiffer spring rate, which further contributes to improved handling – though sometimes at the expense of ride comfort.
Think of it like this: stock suspension is built for everything. Lowering springs prioritize performance over plushness. Don’t expect cloud-like smoothness after you install them!
