Thinking about dropping your car a few inches? Lowering springs are a cheap way to get a aggressive stance, better handling, and a sportier feel. But if you skip the basics, you could end up with a harsh ride or worn‑out shocks. This guide walks you through everything you need to know before you start the install.
Unlike a coil‑over kit, a set of lowering springs replaces the stock springs while keeping the original shock absorber. The springs are shorter and stiffer, which pulls the car’s body closer to the chassis. The result is a lower centre of gravity, sharper cornering, and a look many enthusiasts love. The trade‑off is a firmer ride and a higher chance of bottoming out if you’re not careful.
1. Gather tools and safety gear. You’ll need a jack, jack stands, a socket set, spring compressors (or a press), and a torque wrench. Gloves and safety glasses are a must – compressed springs can snap.
2. Raise the car and remove the wheels. Place the jack under the factory lift point, lift, and secure with stands. Take off the wheels so you can see the suspension clearly.
3. Remove the stock springs. Unbolt the top mount (often a bolt or a clamp) and the lower spring seat bolt. Use the spring compressor to keep the spring from popping out when you loosen the top bolt. If you don’t have a compressor, a professional shop can do this quickly.
4. Fit the lowering springs. Slip the new spring onto the lower seat, then compress it with the tool and tighten the top mount to the manufacturer’s torque spec. Make sure the spring sits evenly on both sides.
5. Re‑install the wheels and lower the car. Tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque, then lower the car. Give the suspension a few cycles of compression to settle the springs.
6. Align and test. A proper alignment is crucial after any suspension change. Have a shop do a four‑wheel alignment, then take the car for a short drive to feel the new stance.
That’s it – a basic install you can finish in under two hours if you’re organized. If you run into stuck bolts or rusted mounts, don’t force anything. Take the car to a mechanic to avoid damage.
Now that you know how to install, consider these extra tips:
Bottom line: lowering springs give you a sleek look and better handling, but they’re not a plug‑and‑play upgrade. Take the time to prep, follow the steps, and consider the whole suspension package. Your car will thank you with a tighter feel and a head‑turning stance.
Learn how many inches lowering springs actually drop your car, what affects the outcome, plus tips and hard facts for a smooth ride and sharp looks.