How Long Does It Take To Install Coilovers? (+Tips)
Issues with coilovers hamper the ride comfort and smooth driving experience. In that case, you may need to install new sets of coilovers.
In this article, I’ll tell you about the time required for installing coilovers. I’ll also share some tips to improve the health of your coilovers as well as some precautionary measures and clear instructions so that you can install your coilovers on your own.
Types of Coilovers Available in Market
Coilovers are classified into different performance classes divided by the manufacturers. Generally, coilovers can be classified into 4 categories and levels stated below.
- Manual Lowering Type
These are the classic type of coilovers suitable for drivers and beginners. Because of the screw thread, an individual lowering of 20 to 70 mm can be adjusted by using a hand. This can be your choice if you’re looking for sporty handling with individual lowering in an everyday situation.
- Adjustable Rebound and Compression Damping Type
It’s possible to adapt your suspension in handling according to your personal preferences having this kind of coilover. Tuning enthusiasts can fulfill their taste easily when the concern related to special track conditions, weight, and tire characteristics comes.
- High-Performance Type for Racing Sports and Club
This kind of Coilover is needed to ensure racing performance while maintaining the approval of the road. More than about a hundred different kinds of adjustment choices are possible as well as camber adjustment. These coilovers are suitable for sporty drivers who regularly drive on the racetrack.
- Electronically Adjustable Type
Electronically adjustable coilovers use wheel force, engine control sensors, and speed to offer continuous adjustment of damper rate considering different types of road conditions. Premium vehicles of today are now using this kind of adaptive suspension system.
Also read: The Cost of Coilovers Installation (+Tips)
How Long Does It Take To Install a Coilover?
With the help of an automotive expert or shop, the coilover installation process should take three to four hours. That means you need to be prepared for spending 45 to 60 minutes on each corner.
However, the timespan can’t be confidently confirmed as some other important factors will affect the overall time of installation.
Your installation time will vary considering the availability and workload of the shop or automotive expert. If the load is too much, you may need to wait more time than you expected for the installation process.
Sometimes, some issues may hamper the installation process of coilovers or affect the installation time. In this kind of case, you’ll also have to spend an extra amount of time as well as money.
It’s always wise to get a clear idea from an expert or reliable shop before installing.
Also read: ST Coil-Overs Review: Are They Worth it?
How To Change Coilovers Yourself Effectively?
To take help from professionals before changing or installing your coilovers is always suggested. However, it’s possible to change the coilovers on your own if you know the correct steps of the installation process.
Following the steps serially mentioned below will help you to change the coilovers of your car on your own.
- Planning and Measuring
The very first step of the installation is planning and measuring. Measure your current ride height, spray penetrating oil to bolts, keep in mind the rust issue, and have a look at suspension & steering bushings.
- Remove the Wheels
Then jack up your vehicle and remove the wheels. Always follow the owner’s manual and use jack stands. Don’t hesitate to take help from experts if you don’t understand something mentioned in the manual.
- Remove the Struts
The next step is removing the struts. In this step, you’ll need to remove bolts from the lower or upper control arms for pulling out the strut assembly.
- Set Up the Ride Height
After pulling out the strut assembly, you need to set up the ride height roughly. Follow the instructions of manufacturers at the time of setting them next to coilovers.
- Install the Coilovers
In this step, install the coilovers having s sharp focus on torque rating, unnecessary twisting load, and most importantly manufacturers guidelines.
- Reinstall Wheels, Check Ride Height
Reinstall the wheels, check your ride height, and drive the car for a few distances to settle in your suspension system.
- Check the Car’s Alignment
Finally, check every single part and get an alignment done.
Also read: Solo Werks S1 Coilovers- Is it Worth it? (Review)
Precautionary Measure for Installing Coilovers
Coilover is an important device of the automobile suspension system that ensures more control in your steering, a comfortable ride, optimal performance ensuring safety. However, coilovers can be damaged or faulty for different reasons, and you may need to replace them in your car.
Before installing, it’s mandatory to take some precautionary measures to avoid unwanted incidents.
Let’s talk about some of the necessary precautionary actions before the installation process of coilovers.
- Use Proper Tools
To avoid any unexpected incidents, it’s strongly suggested to use proper tools. Using the proper tools will make the installation process much easier and smoother.
- Replace the Bushings, Bearings & Bolts
It’s safe to check and replace the old bushings, bearings, and bolts before installing new coilovers. Sometimes they are subject to wear and may cause some unwanted situations.
- Maintenance
Coilovers need maintenance and it starts with the installation process. Proper maintenance will help you to avoid any kind of issues or problems related to coilovers.
- Proper Adjustment & Alignment
It’s important to get proper adjustment and alignment for your coilovers. This will make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.
Tips To Improve Coilovers Health and Lifetime
It’s not a difficult job to maintain your coilovers to ensure optimal performance and safety. You just need to follow the proper steps suggested by experts.
Following some effective tips stated below can improve the health and lifetime of your coilovers.
- Coilovers generally get dirty, especially in the time of winter or rain. Moisture and dirt can easily damage your coilovers by forming rust and corrosion. Clean the coilovers with mild soap and water regularly to prevent the formation of rust and corrosion.
- It’s wise to use covers for your coilovers to keep dirt, debris, and moisture away. This covering process is highly beneficial during winter or rain.
- Check the seals to keep the internals of your suspension system free from moisture and dirt having a sharp focus on wear, damage, and replacement.
- Be careful about adjusting the springs as an excessive amount of force can damage or break them and this may lead to some serious safety issues.
