Lowering Springs

Does your car sit too high above the wheels, or do you want it lower and more stable through the corners? Lowering springs replace the original springs and typically give a lower ride height and a firmer chassis. They are for you if you want to change both the look and the handling of your car.

How to choose lowering springs

Start with two questions: How much should the car be lowered, and how stiff can it be? Car-specific kits typically state the amount of lowering. The Skunk2 kit for the Acura RSX, for example, lowers the car 2.25 inches at the front and 2.00 inches at the rear. The H&R range includes both Sport Spring and Race Spring for the same car, such as the Acura TL. If you choose universal springs, look at three measurements:

• Spring rate in kg/mm, e.g. 6 or 18 kg/mm. It determines how stiff the spring is.
• Length, which affects ride height and suspension travel.
• Inner diameter, which must match the shock absorber or coilover.

Shock absorbers, fitting and inspection

Shorter and stiffer springs load the original shock absorbers differently. Whether the dampers should be replaced at the same time therefore depends on the car and on how much it is lowered. After fitting, the wheel alignment typically needs to be adjusted. Also check that the tyres do not hit the wheel arch at full compression. Whether the modification requires an inspection or approval depends on the product and the car. Check this for the specific part number. Brands in this category include Eibach, Tein, AST and RS-R. If you want to raise the car instead, we have lift springs. If you want to return to the factory ride height, you can choose replacement springs.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between sport springs and race springs?

Race springs are typically stiffer and can lower the car more than sport springs, which are usually intended for daily driving. The exact lowering and stiffness depend on the specific kit, so check the data for the part number.

Do I need to replace the shock absorbers when fitting lowering springs?

It depends on the amount of lowering and the condition of the dampers. Worn or original dampers can struggle to control shorter and stiffer springs. This can result in a bouncy ride and faster wear.

Do lowering springs require an inspection?

It depends on the product, the car and how much the ride height is changed. Check the requirements and any documentation for the specific part number. Also remember that the wheel alignment typically needs to be adjusted after fitting.