Cutting Springs: The DIY Way to Lower Your Car Safely
Thinking about giving your ride a lower stance? Cutting springs is a cheap shortcut, but it isn’t something you should wing. A clean cut can drop the car a few centimeters, improve the look, and sometimes sharpen handling. Mess it up, though, and you risk uneven wear, a harsh ride, or even broken suspension parts. Let’s break down what you need to know before you grab a saw.
Tools and Prep: Get the Right Gear First
First off, you’ll need a quality bolt‑cutting saw or a mini‑band saw with a fine blade. A regular hacksaw can work, but it will take longer and may leave rough edges. Put the car on a solid jack stand, remove the wheel, and then take off the spring from the strut or coil pack. Keep the spring clean – any dirt can cause the blade to slip.
Mark the exact spot you want to cut with a marker or chalk. Most people aim for a 10‑15% reduction in spring length, which usually drops the ride height by about 10‑20mm. Measure twice, cut once. If you’re unsure, compare against a friend’s lowered car or use a suspension calculator online.
How to Cut Without Cracking the Spring
Support the spring at both ends while you cut. A piece of wood or a metal pipe works great as a fulcrum. This prevents the spring from bending and cracking under the blade’s pressure. Cut slowly, letting the saw do the work – don’t force it. After the cut, file the edges smooth. Rough edges can dig into the strut mount and cause squeaks later.
Once the cut is clean, re‑install the spring, making sure the mounting points line up properly. Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specs. Lower the car back down, put the wheel back on, and do a quick bounce test. The car should settle quickly without excessive noise.
Remember, cutting springs changes the suspension geometry. You may notice a stiffer ride, quicker steering response, and reduced wheel travel. If the car feels too harsh, consider swapping the springs for a set that’s designed for a lower stance instead of a DIY cut.
Legal limits matter, too. In many places, dropping a car more than 20mm can breach vehicle regulations, especially for road‑legal use. Check local laws before you commit to a permanent cut. If you’re unsure, a professional suspension shop can advise whether a cut is safe or if you should go for an aftermarket coilover kit.
Cost-wise, cutting springs is cheap – a good saw blade costs under £20, and you’re saving hundreds compared to buying a new set. However, the hidden cost is time and potential repair if something goes wrong. Weigh the savings against the risk, especially if you plan to keep the car on public roads.
Bottom line: Cutting springs can give you the look you want without breaking the bank, but only if you follow a careful process. Use the right tools, mark precisely, support the spring, and respect local regulations. When in doubt, pop into a reputable shop and get a professional opinion. Your car will thank you with a smoother ride and a confident stance.
