Are Coilovers Better Than Shocks? [Answered]

Have you ever found yourself gazing at your vehicle and asking, “Is there something I can do to make my ride smoother, more precise, or perhaps more sporty?” The answer may be simpler than you think: consider upgrading your suspension. Now you might ask, “But how?” That’s where two key components come into play – coilovers and shocks.

In the automotive world, these two terms are thrown around quite a bit. But what are coilovers? Are they any different from shocks? And do they provide a better ride? And perhaps most importantly, can one use them for daily driving? Let’s find out.

What is Coilovers?

Coilovers are essentially a type of vehicle suspension system that incorporates a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit. The term “coilover” itself is derived from “coil-over-shock,” signifying its integrated design.

These suspension components are highly adjustable, meaning you can tweak their settings to suit your specific needs. You can change the ride height, the stiffness, and in some high-end models, even the rebound and compression of the shocks.

Do Coilovers Give a Better Ride?

The answer to whether coilovers provide a better ride isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. This is because “better” is a relative term and depends on what you value in your driving experience.

If you’re someone who values a comfortable, smooth ride for everyday commuting, then the factory-installed shocks and struts in your vehicle will probably suffice. They’re designed to absorb bumps and minimize vibrations, ensuring a plush ride.

However, if you’re seeking improved handling, more cornering stability, or plan on taking your vehicle to the track, coilovers might be a “better” choice. Their high adjustability allows drivers to set the suspension to exactly their liking, giving them more control and precision on the road.

Can You Daily Drive on Coilovers?

Yes, you certainly can daily drive on coilovers! However, it’s worth noting that because coilovers are designed for performance, they can make your ride feel stiffer than usual. This could potentially make your daily commute less comfortable, especially if you often drive on poorly-maintained roads.

The key is to find a balance. Many drivers adjust their coilovers to a softer setting for daily driving, and then stiffen them up for sportier driving or track days.

Coilovers vs Shocks

What is Shocks?

Shocks” is short for shock absorbers, which are essential components in a vehicle’s suspension system. Their primary function is to absorb and dampen the impact from the road’s surface to the vehicle, which in turn makes the ride smoother and more comfortable for passengers.

Shock absorbers also reduce wear on other parts of the vehicle, including the tires and brakes, by maintaining optimal contact between the road and the tires, and ensuring more even weight distribution during braking and cornering.

Role and Function of Shocks

A shock absorber is an integral part of your vehicle’s suspension system. It’s designed to control the movement of the springs and suspension, reducing the impact of bumps and vibrations for a smoother ride. Think of shock absorbers as the buffer between you and the rough terrain beneath your tires.

By smoothing out energy fluctuations, shocks ensure that your tires maintain contact with the road surface for as much time as possible. This contributes to better vehicle stability and improves your overall control, making for a safer and more comfortable driving experience.

Pros and Cons of Shocks

Shocks have their strengths and weaknesses. One of their most significant benefits is that they make for a comfortable, smooth ride – ideal for daily commuting and long journeys. They’re also typically less expensive to replace, making them an economical choice for many drivers.

Shocks are less adjustable than coilovers, limiting your ability to customize your vehicle’s performance. Furthermore, they can wear out more quickly under hard use, which can result in a need for more frequent replacements.

Coilovers

Coilovers are a step up in the realm of vehicle suspension systems. They’re more complex than shock absorbers, offering a higher degree of customization and control over your vehicle’s handling and performance.

What Makes Coilovers Different?

Coilovers integrate a shock absorber and a coil spring into one unit, and the term “coilover” is a contraction of “coil spring over shock.” This design allows coilovers to maintain the benefits of shock absorbers while also offering more flexibility.

Coilovers offer adjustable settings, meaning you can change the stiffness and height of your suspension according to your specific needs. Some high-end models even offer adjustments for compression and rebound settings, allowing you to further tailor your vehicle’s handling.

Pros and Cons of Coilovers

Coilovers offer a multitude of benefits. They are a popular choice among car enthusiasts and track drivers due to their high adjustability, which provides improved handling and control. Because of their robust construction, coilovers also tend to have a longer lifespan than regular shocks.

However, the advanced capabilities of coilovers come with a higher price tag. They’re generally more expensive than shocks, and professional installation can add to the cost. Plus, because coilovers are designed for performance, they can create a stiffer ride, which may not be as comfortable for daily commuting, especially on rough or poorly-maintained roads.

Coilovers vs Shocks: Making the Choice

Choosing between coilovers and shocks comes down to your personal driving style, your performance expectations, and your budget.

If you value comfort and economy for daily driving, shocks might be the better option. They provide a smooth ride, require less maintenance, and are less expensive to replace.

But if you’re looking for improved handling and performance, and you don’t mind a stiffer ride or a higher price, coilovers are the way to go. Their adjustability lets you tweak your vehicle’s suspension characteristics to your liking, making them a favorite choice among car enthusiasts and performance drivers.

Are Coilovers Better Than Shocks?

The answer to this depends on your driving preferences and what you want from your vehicle. If you are looking for a comfortable ride for daily commuting or long-distance travel, shocks might be the better option.

However, if you’re seeking improved handling, plan to take your car to the track, or simply enjoy a sportier ride, coilovers could be a superior choice. They provide the flexibility to tailor your vehicle’s suspension, allowing you to tweak it for optimal performance.

How Much Do Coilovers Cost?

The cost of coilovers can vary widely based on the make and model of your vehicle, the quality of the coilovers, and the brand. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $2000 or more.

Keep in mind that installing coilovers usually requires professional help, which will add to the cost. It’s also important to remember that while coilovers might cost more upfront, their durability and adjustability can provide long-term value, especially for car enthusiasts and those regularly driving on the track.

Conclusion

Coilovers and shocks each have their own set of advantages. Coilovers, with their high level of adjustability, offer greater control and precision, making them a popular choice for car enthusiasts and those looking for enhanced performance