Lowering springs can enhance your car’s performance, giving it a sleeker and more aggressive look while improving its handling and stability. However, installing lowering springs can be a challenging task for beginners. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step process on how to install lowering springs on your car.

Preparation

Before you start installing lowering springs, you need to prepare your tools and materials. Here are the things you need to have:

Tools

• Jack and jack stands
• Socket set
• Wrench set
• Pry bar
• Torque wrench
• Spring compressor
• Rubber mallet

Materials

• New lowering springs
• New shocks and struts (optional)
• Anti-seize lubricant
• Thread locker
• Wheel cleaner

Ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials before starting the installation process. Safety should be your priority, so make sure that you have a safe workspace and are wearing protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection.

Once you have all the materials ready, you need to remove the wheels to access the suspension system. Place the vehicle on jack stands and remove the wheels. Clean the wheels and set them aside.

Removing the Stock Springs

The next step is to remove the stock springs from your car. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Remove the shocks and struts

Use a socket set and wrench to remove the shocks and struts from your car. Use a pry bar to remove the sway bar end link from the strut if necessary. Put the shocks and struts aside.

Step 2: Compress the springs

Use a spring compressor to compress the stock springs. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the spring compressor. Ensure that the compressor is securely attached to the spring.

Step 3: Remove the stock springs

Once the springs are compressed, use a socket set to remove the top and bottom nuts holding the stock springs in place. Use a rubber mallet to tap the strut if necessary to loosen the spring.

Step 4: Inspect the shocks and struts

While the stock springs are removed, inspect the shocks and struts for any signs of wear or damage. If they are worn out, it’s recommended to replace them with new shocks and struts.

Removing the stock springs is a crucial step in the installation process. Ensure that you follow the steps carefully to avoid any damage to your car or yourself.

Installing the Lowering Springs

Now that you have removed the stock springs, it’s time to install the new lowering springs. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Preparing the new springs for installation

Before installing the new lowering springs, make sure that they are compatible with your car’s make and model. Read the instructions that come with the lowering springs to ensure that you’re installing them correctly.

Next, apply anti-seize lubricant to the top and bottom of the strut where the new spring will sit. This will help prevent corrosion and make it easier to remove the springs in the future.

Step 2: Placing the new springs onto the strut

Use a spring compressor to compress the new lowering spring to fit onto the strut. Make sure that the compressor is securely attached to the spring.

Once the spring is compressed, carefully place it onto the strut. Ensure that the bottom of the spring is seated correctly on the strut.

Step 3: Reinstalling the struts and shock absorbers

Once the new spring is in place, it’s time to reinstall the struts and shock absorbers. Follow the reverse order of the removal process.

Attach the top and bottom of the strut to the car frame and suspension system, respectively. Use a torque wrench to tighten the nuts and bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications. Apply thread locker to the bolts to prevent them from coming loose.

Repeat the process for the other side of the car.

Final Steps

After installing the new lowering springs, there are a few final steps to complete the process. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Lowering the car

Carefully lower the car off the jack stands and onto the ground. Check the ride height to ensure that it’s at the desired level. If it’s not, adjust the height of the lowering springs accordingly.

Step 2: Tightening bolts and nuts

Once the car is lowered, use a torque wrench to tighten the nuts and bolts on the wheels, struts, and shocks to the manufacturer’s specifications. This will ensure that everything is securely in place.

Step 3: Reinstalling the wheels

Reinstall the cleaned wheels onto the car. Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Congratulations, you’ve successfully installed lowering springs on your car! However, before taking your car for a test drive, it’s important to check the alignment and ride height. If necessary, take your car to a professional mechanic for a proper alignment and suspension adjustment.

Final Steps

After installing the new lowering springs onto your car, it’s time to lower the car and reinstall the wheels. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Lower the car

Slowly lower the car back to the ground. Ensure that the car is level before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Tighten bolts and nuts

Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts and nuts on the shocks, struts, and sway bar end links to the manufacturer’s specifications. This step is crucial to ensure that the suspension system is secure and properly aligned.

Step 3: Reinstall the wheels

Reinstall the wheels onto the car. Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications. Clean the wheels and tires before lowering the car back to the ground.

Test Drive and Maintenance

After installing the new lowering springs, it’s essential to check for proper alignment and ride height. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Check for proper alignment and ride height

Check the ride height of your car to ensure that it’s level. If necessary, adjust the ride height by using adjustable coilovers or adjustable spring perches. Check the alignment of the wheels to ensure that they are aligned correctly.

Step 2: Test drive the car

Take your car for a test drive to ensure that everything is working correctly. Pay attention to the handling, stability, and ride quality. If you notice any issues, address them immediately.

Step 3: Regular maintenance and inspection

Lowering springs can put more stress on the suspension system, so it’s essential to have regular maintenance and inspection. Check the shocks and struts for any signs of wear or damage. Replace them if necessary. Inspect the springs for any signs of sagging or damage and replace them if necessary.

In conclusion, installing lowering springs can be a challenging task for beginners, but it’s a rewarding experience that can improve the performance and appearance of your car. Ensure that you follow the steps carefully, use the right tools and materials, and prioritize safety. With this guide, you can install lowering springs confidently and enjoy the benefits of a better-performing car.