Suspension and Brakes Springs, shocks, coilovers, sways, braces, brakes, etc.

Are coilovers worth it?

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Old 10-14-09, 01:36 AM
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MrHarris
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Default Are coilovers worth it?

As far as suspension mods, I only have an IS-F rear sway bar which I feel made a pretty big difference in body roll. I also changed the all-season tires to some Bridgestone summer tires which made a big difference in grip. People who upgraded from the stock suspension, are coilovers worth upgrading to?

I would like my car to handle similar to a sports car while still being able to be comfortable on Los Angeles freeways. I won't be slamming the car, probably put it at 0-1 finger gap. Also cost is important here as this is my DD, which coilovers do you guys recommend?


Also, if I lower the car to no finger gap to one finger gap, would I need any camber kit or anything of that nature?

Last edited by MrHarris; 10-14-09 at 03:15 AM.
Old 10-14-09, 05:45 AM
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mdgrwl
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As far as handling, yes its a MAJOR improvment! Lower center of gravity, and you truly 'feel' it once you drop down 2 inches or so. Very 'connected' to the road
Old 10-14-09, 08:41 AM
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B16da9
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I love my BC coilovers, it made the car handle much better.
Old 10-14-09, 09:38 AM
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projectdna
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Originally Posted by MrHarris
As far as suspension mods, I only have an IS-F rear sway bar which I feel made a pretty big difference in body roll. I also changed the all-season tires to some Bridgestone summer tires which made a big difference in grip. People who upgraded from the stock suspension, are coilovers worth upgrading to?

I would like my car to handle similar to a sports car while still being able to be comfortable on Los Angeles freeways. I won't be slamming the car, probably put it at 0-1 finger gap. Also cost is important here as this is my DD, which coilovers do you guys recommend?

Also, if I lower the car to no finger gap to one finger gap, would I need any camber kit or anything of that nature?
coilovers are certainly worth looking into. they not only offer ride height adjustability, but can also offer dampening options and (with certain brands) custom spring rates.

if you are looking for a no-frills entry-level coilover set-up, anything in the sub-$1k range will suffice.

there are currently no camber kits available for the 2is, but iirc megan racing has some suspension pieces for the rear that have adjustable camber settings. at your proposed ride height, it isn't so much camber that will eat up your tires as much as incorrect toe settings that will.
Old 10-14-09, 09:53 AM
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CircuitMS
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Coilovers are well worth it if they fit into your budget and your plan for what you want to do with your car/suspension.

We usually recommend the BCR coilovers for street/spirited driving. They work well, have great features and are priced nicely. We also have Megans, KW's, HKS, etc.

Fell free to PM us with any questions on coilovers setups or pricing
Old 10-14-09, 07:26 PM
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VikH
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I wouldn't do it. Especially if you have an 09 M3. Once you start modding, you won't stop. Save your money for mods on the M.
Old 10-14-09, 08:14 PM
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smokyis350
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seems like every thread regarding suspension someone has to advertise their products..
Old 10-14-09, 11:59 PM
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projectdna
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^ so what would YOU recommend to the OP?
Old 10-15-09, 03:45 AM
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MrHarris
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Originally Posted by VikH
I wouldn't do it. Especially if you have an 09 M3. Once you start modding, you won't stop. Save your money for mods on the M.
The M has every bolt on short of a supercharger. I spend a good amount of time in the IS and kind of want it to be fun while being low-key which the M3 is not (insanely loud exhaust).
Old 10-15-09, 11:23 AM
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projectdna
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^ nice.

come to the friday night meets, and there will be quite a few members there that can give you great advice about coilovers.

and you can bring your m3 too.

(we had a gt-r show up last week...)
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