Do Coilovers Lower Your Car? And Why Do They Make Your Neighbor's Dog Bark?

Do Coilovers Lower Your Car? And Why Do They Make Your Neighbor's Dog Bark?

When it comes to modifying your car, one of the most common questions that arise is, “Do coilovers lower your car?” The short answer is yes, coilovers can lower your car, but the implications and nuances of this modification are far more complex than a simple yes or no. In this article, we’ll delve into the various aspects of coilovers, their impact on your vehicle, and why they might just be the reason your neighbor’s dog won’t stop barking.

What Are Coilovers?

Coilovers, short for “coil-over shock absorbers,” are a type of suspension system that combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into a single unit. They are typically adjustable, allowing you to change the ride height, damping, and sometimes even the spring rate of your vehicle. This adjustability is what makes coilovers so popular among car enthusiasts who want to fine-tune their car’s handling and appearance.

How Do Coilovers Lower Your Car?

The primary way coilovers lower your car is through their adjustable ride height feature. Most coilovers come with threaded bodies that allow you to raise or lower the spring perch, effectively changing the ride height of your vehicle. By lowering the spring perch, you reduce the distance between the chassis and the ground, thus lowering the car.

The Mechanics of Lowering

When you adjust the spring perch, you’re essentially compressing or decompressing the coil spring. Compressing the spring reduces its length, which in turn lowers the car. This adjustment is usually done by turning a threaded collar on the coilover body. The more you compress the spring, the lower the car will sit.

The Impact on Handling

Lowering your car with coilovers doesn’t just change its appearance; it also affects its handling. A lower center of gravity reduces body roll during cornering, which can improve stability and grip. However, lowering your car too much can lead to issues like reduced suspension travel, increased wear on suspension components, and a harsher ride.

Why Do Coilovers Make Your Neighbor’s Dog Bark?

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room—or rather, the dog in the yard. Why do coilovers make your neighbor’s dog bark? The answer lies in the sound and vibration changes that come with lowering your car.

Noise and Vibration

When you lower your car, you often change the way it interacts with the road. The reduced suspension travel can lead to a stiffer ride, which transmits more road noise and vibrations into the cabin. These vibrations can also travel through the ground, potentially disturbing nearby animals, including your neighbor’s dog.

The Psychological Factor

Dogs are highly sensitive to changes in their environment. The new sounds and vibrations from your lowered car might be perceived as a threat or an anomaly, causing the dog to bark in response. Additionally, if your car now looks more aggressive or sporty, the dog might react to the visual change as well.

The Pros and Cons of Lowering Your Car with Coilovers

Before you decide to lower your car with coilovers, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons.

Pros

  1. Improved Handling: Lowering your car can improve handling by reducing body roll and lowering the center of gravity.
  2. Aesthetic Appeal: A lowered car often looks more aggressive and sporty, which can be a significant draw for car enthusiasts.
  3. Customizability: Coilovers offer a high degree of adjustability, allowing you to fine-tune your suspension to your specific needs.

Cons

  1. Ride Comfort: Lowering your car can lead to a stiffer, less comfortable ride, especially if you lower it too much.
  2. Increased Wear: Reduced suspension travel can lead to increased wear on suspension components, potentially leading to more frequent repairs.
  3. Ground Clearance: Lowering your car reduces ground clearance, which can make it more susceptible to damage from speed bumps, potholes, and other road irregularities.

Conclusion

So, do coilovers lower your car? Yes, they do, and they offer a range of benefits and drawbacks that you should consider before making the modification. While they can improve handling and give your car a more aggressive look, they can also lead to a harsher ride and increased wear on suspension components. And yes, they might just be the reason your neighbor’s dog won’t stop barking.

Q: Can I lower my car without using coilovers? A: Yes, there are other methods to lower your car, such as using lowering springs or air suspension. However, coilovers offer the most adjustability and control over your suspension setup.

Q: How much can I lower my car with coilovers? A: The amount you can lower your car depends on the specific coilovers you choose and your vehicle’s suspension geometry. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid damaging your car.

Q: Will lowering my car void my warranty? A: It depends on your car’s warranty terms. Some manufacturers may void the warranty if you modify the suspension, so it’s best to check with your dealer before making any changes.

Q: Do I need to align my car after lowering it? A: Yes, lowering your car will change its alignment settings, so it’s crucial to get a professional alignment after installing coilovers to ensure proper handling and tire wear.

Q: Can I raise my car back up after lowering it with coilovers? A: Yes, one of the advantages of coilovers is their adjustability. You can raise or lower your car as needed, making them a versatile option for suspension modification.