Suspension

Slam it to the ground or raise it to the sky

Your vehicle's suspension refers to the system of shock absorbers, springs and linkages that connect the wheels to the vehicle. The suspension has two main functions: to contribute to the car's braking and handling, and to cushion the riders from the bumps and vibrations of the road. However, an improvement in one function typically means that you'll compromise the other. For this reason, tuning your suspension is about finding a happy medium.

Suspension Modifications

Suspension can be modified in vehicles for different reasons. Here are some of the top suspension customizations:

• Lowering kits - Car enthusiasts like to lower their vehicles because it makes their cars look mean and sleek. It also lowers the center of gravity of the car which makes it more stable when turning. Shorter suspension may provide better handling and performance, but it may also lead to a harsher ride. Lowering kits are available for almost any car, truck, van and SUV. Using a variation of shorter coil springs or a set of dropped spindles can drop your vehicle as much as five inches. To go extremely low, you may need to make some permanent modifications to your vehicle by moving the axle housing.
• Lift kits - Lift kits are designed for serious off-road enthusiasts. Lifting the suspension of a vehicle is generally used on beefy 4X4 pickup trucks, jeeps and SUVs. It would look pretty silly to lift your Volkswagen! With a heavy suspension lift kit, your truck will be able to take on the toughest trails. Heavy-duty shocks are important when off-roading, because they absorb sudden impulses and prevent damage to the vehicle, but they may deliver a rougher ride on regular pavement. With the installation of new shocks, spindles and coils, you'll be able to get between two and eight inches of lift. Anything higher will require further modifications. Since the shocks and other components of the suspension are now visible, they are usually painted to look better.
• Performance kits - Performance kits can enhance your vehicle's off-road and on-road performance without actually lowering or raising the suspension. The secret is in the performance shocks, which increase on-road stability, cornering and handling while enhancing off-road capabilities. For daily use, it makes for a smoother ride. Some kits come with an adjustable system so that you can change the height of your ride for racing purposes. The parts come painted and coated for rust protection.

It used to be we could depend on the reputation and reliability of North American cars to meet our standards - but could it be the times are changing? Here in the U.S., overseas models are continuing to rise in popularity. Find out why!

If you love your car, you’ve got treat it right – stock will never do for your hot wheels! Whether it’s for performance or just for the look, aftermarket parts can turn that car you just brought home into your own pimp ride.