Performance Parts – Coil spring 161

Sports Lowering Springs

Did you know that lowering springs are often one of the first steps in both visual and mechanical car tuning? On the one hand, a lower and stiffer suspension improves cornering and handling, while on the other, it enhances the sporty, aggressive appearance of your vehicle.

How to Choose the Right Lowering Springs for Your Car and Driving Style?

Before purchasing lowering springs, it is essential to check your vehicle’s model variant and engine version. This ensures an optimal fit. Depending on the body type or engine size, different lowering springs are recommended due to varying suspension characteristics. For example, estate cars require stiffer rear springs due to added rear load, while vehicles equipped with larger and heavier engines (such as V6 or V8) need firmer front springs. Similarly, many diesel-powered cars benefit from stiffer front springs since diesel engines are typically much heavier than petrol engines of comparable power. Such variations influence the extensive range of lowering springs available. That’s why, at IC24.UK, you’ll find multiple lowering spring options tailored for a single car model (within the same generation).

Leading manufacturers such as Eibach specify the level of chassis lowering based on factory specifications for each engine version. Keep this in mind, as over time and with increased mileage, springs can compress, causing further lowering and altering suspension dynamics, often making it softer (theoretically more comfortable).

Eibach Pro-Kit and Sportline

Why does Eibach get so much attention in this guide? It’s simple: this German brand is the undisputed leader in the market, offering a vast selection of high-performance lowering springs. Eibach Pro-Kit Springs lower the vehicle by approximately 25mm from factory values, making them ideal for drivers seeking a balance between sporty performance and ride comfort. In most cases, Pro-Kit lowering springs do not require replacing standard shock absorbers with sports alternatives, making them a cost-effective upgrade. They also perform well in motorsport events, such as KJS or rallycross, where cars tackle uneven surfaces. 

Sportline Springs offer a more aggressive drop, lowering the chassis by up to 50mm. Compared to the Pro-Kit series, these are significantly firmer, which necessitates the use of shorter, sport-specific shock absorbers, such as the Bilstein B8 series. Eibach Sportline springs are perfect for track use, including time attack and track day events, providing sharper handling and improved cornering stability. 

Interestingly, Eibach also caters to off-road enthusiasts. Their Pro-Lift Springs are designed for crossovers, SUVs, and dedicated off-road vehicles. These springs increase ground clearance, improving off-road performance, while their stiffer characteristics enhance load capacity, making it easier to carry additional gear. 

FAQ 

Which Springs Should I Choose for Maximum Comfort?

We recommend the Eibach Pro-Kit springs. They work well with standard shock absorbers, making them a cost-effective choice for a subtle performance upgrade without sacrificing comfort.

What Are the Best Springs for Track Days?

If you’re hitting the track, Eibach’s Sportline springs are the best option. They are much stiffer than the Pro-Kit series and offer significant lowering (up to 50mm), reducing the centre of gravity and improving cornering stability. However, installing Sportline springs should be combined with shorter, stiffer shock absorbers to prevent bottoming out or excessive bouncing. For Sportline springs, we recommend pairing them with Bilstein B8 shock absorbers, available at IC24.UK.

Do Sport Springs Require Additional Modifications?

Lowering springs fit plug and play into standard suspension setups. However, due to the change in suspension dynamics, other components like bushes and mounting points may experience increased stress. Based on motorsport expertise, we recommend reinforcing the suspension with polyurethane bushes, strut braces, and sports-tuned shock absorbers. All these components are available at IC24.UK. Finally, after installing lowering springs and other suspension upgrades, don’t forget to visit a workshop for a wheel alignment check.