Looking to upgrade your suspension system? Aftermarket coilovers offer a variety of options for automotive enthusiasts. But not all coilovers are the same. Understanding the differences between cheap and expensive options in quality, performance, and durability is crucial. In this article, we will explore why these distinctions matter when choosing the right coilovers for your vehicle.
What are the differences between cheap and expensive coilovers?
There are several key differences between cheap and expensive coilovers, which impact their quality, performance, and durability. Here are some of the main contrasts:
Build quality and materials
Cheap coilovers are often manufactured using lower-grade materials that may lack the durability and strength of higher-quality options, leading to potential issues with longevity and performance. Additionally, the manufacturing processes for cheap coilovers may involve less attention to detail and precision, resulting in inconsistencies and lower overall build quality.
On the other hand, expensive coilovers are crafted from high-quality materials that offer superior strength, durability, and resistance to wear and fatigue. The manufacturing of expensive coilovers typically involves precision machining and superior craftsmanship, ensuring tight tolerances, excellent fitment, and overall higher build quality.
Damping technology
Cheap coilovers often feature basic damping technology with limited adjustability and performance capabilities. This may include fixed damping rates or minimal adjustments for compression and rebound settings. As a result, cheap coilovers may not offer the level of control and customisation desired by enthusiasts or drivers seeking optimal suspension performance.
In contrast, expensive coilovers incorporate advanced damping systems with adjustable compression and rebound settings. These advanced damping technologies allow for precise tuning and optimisation of suspension performance. Drivers can adjust damping rates to suit specific driving preferences, road conditions, and vehicle setups, resulting in improved ride quality, handling, and responsiveness.
Adjustability and Customisation
Cheap coilovers typically offer limited adjustability in terms of ride height, damping settings, and spring rates. This limited adjustability may restrict customisation options and the ability to fine-tune the suspension to individual preferences or driving conditions.
Expensive coilovers, on the other hand, provide a wide range of adjustability and customisation options, including ride height adjustment, adjustable damping settings, and interchangeable springs. The extensive adjustability allows drivers to fine-tune the suspension to their specific needs, optimising performance and handling.
Durability and longevity
Cheap coilovers are often associated with shorter lifespans and may be more prone to premature wear and failure, especially under harsh driving conditions. The lower-grade materials and construction methods used in cheap coilovers may contribute to issues such as leaks, corrosion, and component failures over time.
In contrast, expensive coilovers are designed for durability and longevity. They feature robust construction, quality components, and enhanced resistance to wear and fatigue, even under demanding driving conditions.
Performance and handling
Cheap coilovers generally provide basic suspension improvement over stock setups. While they may offer some benefits such as reduced body roll and improved cornering compared to factory suspensions, they may lack the precision, consistency, and performance capabilities of expensive coilovers.
Expensive coilovers deliver superior performance enhancements, including improved handling, cornering stability, and responsiveness. The advanced damping technology, customisable settings, and high-quality construction of expensive coilovers result in precise control, consistent performance, and enhanced driving dynamics. This makes them ideal for high-performance applications where precise handling and responsiveness are paramount.
Warranty and support
Cheap coilovers often come with limited or no warranty coverage, and drivers may experience challenges in obtaining reliable customer support or aftermarket support for replacement parts.
In contrast, expensive coilovers are typically backed by longer warranties, higher emphasis on customer support, and availability of replacement parts and upgrades. This includes support for technical inquiries, troubleshooting, and warranty claims, ensuring that drivers have a positive experience and ongoing support for their suspension systems.
What is the better choice: cheap or expensive coilovers?
Ultimately, the answer as to which is the better option differs between drivers. Consider the following to determine which is the better option for you:
- Budget: If you have a limited budget and prioritise affordability, cheap coilovers may seem like the better choice initially due to their lower upfront cost. However, it's essential to consider the potential trade-offs in terms of quality, performance, durability, and long-term satisfaction.
- Performance Needs: If you're looking for improved performance, handling, and customisation options, expensive coilovers are generally the better choice. They offer advanced damping technology, adjustable settings, and higher-quality materials, providing superior performance benefits over cheap coilovers.
- Driving Style: Consider your driving style and intended use of the vehicle. If you engage in spirited driving, track days, or performance-oriented driving, expensive coilovers with precise tuning capabilities and enhanced handling may be more suitable. On the other hand, if your driving is primarily focused on daily commuting or casual driving, cheap coilovers may suffice for basic suspension improvement.
- Longevity and Reliability: Expensive coilovers are designed for durability and longevity, offering robust construction, quality components, and resistance to wear and fatigue. They are more likely to withstand harsh driving conditions and provide consistent performance over time compared to cheap coilovers, which may have shorter lifespans and be prone to premature wear and failure.
- Warranty and Support: Consider the warranty coverage and customer support offered by coilover manufacturers. Expensive coilovers typically come with longer warranties, reliable customer support, and availability of replacement parts and upgrades. This ensures peace of mind and ongoing support for maintenance and repairs.
- Value for Money: While expensive coilovers may have a higher initial cost, they often provide better value for money in the long run. They offer superior performance, customisation options, durability, and customer support, making them a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts seeking top-tier suspension upgrades.
