Shocks vs Struts vs Coilovers

Shocks

Shocks, or shock absorber, is any device that dampens energy, in a vehicle's case, damping the feedback from the road/ground as it gets transferred to the vehicle. Once the road energy hits the vehicle through the tires, a shock needs to keep the tires planted on the ground as much as possible, while also controlling body roll.

Shocks are extremely important for ride quality and safety, but not an integral part of the suspension, since the vehicle is usually being supported by coil springs or leaf springs. While technically you can remove the shocks from your vehicle, a shock-less vehicle should only be driven in an emergency.

Struts

Struts, also shock absorbers, serve a dual purpose besides dampening road forces. A strut will also hold the coil springs, which supports the vehicle's weight along with shock duties. As the road feedback hits the tires, this energy gets transferred to the coil springs, and then the strut (shock absorber) dampens these forces to control the vehicle's movement after energy has transferred through the spring to the vehicle chassis.

Struts are integral to the vehicle suspension, without the struts and the matching coil springs, the vehicle would be immobile, as there is nothing to hold the weight of the vehicle since the springs would have no home in the suspension without a strut.

Coilovers

Coilovers are similar in nature to struts, in doing double duty of dampening through the shock absorber in the middle of its body, and housing the coilsprings, all as a single unit that works better together than as different pieces. Coilovers are typically reserved for performance level vehicles, where height or dampening requirements call for a more finely tuned setup. A coilover combines the abilities of a strut, with the damping of a shock, and allows the entire assembly to be installed as a single unit, rather than tearing down the vehicle's coil springs, mounts, struts, etc all separately.

Coilovers allow height adjustment, whether lifting or lowering the vehicle, depending on application. This could mean lowering for a street vehicle to lower the center of gravity in order to meet the demands of the driver ( KW Coilover Shocks, ProTune, Ksport, Eibach ). Light duty trucks and off-road race vehicles will typically use coilovers to lift the vehicle to accommodate larger tires, or heavier equipment ( King Coilover Shocks, Fox Shocks, Icon, etc ).

Demystifying Coilovers, Shocks, and Struts: Understanding the Difference

When it comes to enhancing your car's performance and ride quality, the world of suspension upgrades can be quite daunting. Whether you're an auto enthusiast or simply looking to improve your daily driver, the terms "coilover," "coilover shock," "struts," "shocks," and "coilovers vs struts" can leave you bewildered. In this article, we will delve deep into the realm of suspensions and dissect the differences between coilovers, shocks, and struts. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you'll have a clear understanding of these crucial components and be able to make informed decisions when it comes to improving your car's handling and ride comfort.

What are Coilovers?

Coilovers are a vital element of modern suspension systems. They are, in essence, a combination of coil springs and shock absorbers (shocks) integrated into one compact unit. This design allows for precise adjustment of ride height, damping rates, and other suspension characteristics. Car enthusiasts often opt for coilovers to fine-tune their vehicle's performance to suit specific driving conditions, whether on the track or the street.

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Coilovers Suspension and Their Function

A coilover suspension consists of the following key components:

Coil Springs: Coil springs are designed to support the weight of the vehicle and provide a comfortable and controlled ride. They determine the ride height and help absorb road imperfections.

Shock Absorbers (Shocks): Shock absorbers dampen the spring's oscillations, preventing the vehicle from bouncing excessively after hitting a bump. They play a crucial role in controlling the car's overall handling.

Adjustment Capabilities: One of the primary advantages of coilovers is their adjustability. You can fine-tune various aspects of your suspension, including ride height, damping rates, and even the balance between front and rear axles. This level of customization allows you to tailor your car's performance to your specific needs.

Coilover Shocks

Understanding the fundamental differences between coilovers and traditional shock absorbers is essential for making an informed choice when upgrading your suspension.

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Coilover vs Shock Absorber: A Comparative Analysis

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Adjustability: Coilovers offer far more adjustability compared to conventional shock absorbers. With coilovers, you can precisely dial in the ride height and damping settings, allowing for a more customized driving experience.

Ride Quality: Coilovers provide a balance between ride quality and performance. They can be adjusted to accommodate various driving conditions. However, traditional shock absorbers often provide a smoother ride.

Cost: Coilovers are generally more expensive than standalone shock absorbers. The price difference is due to their adjustable features and additional components.

Performance: Coilovers are favored by performance enthusiasts due to their ability to fine-tune handling characteristics. Traditional shock absorbers are suitable for everyday driving but may not offer the same level of performance customization.

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Coilover vs Strut

Struts are another essential component in your vehicle's suspension system, often confused with coilovers due to their similar appearance. However, they serve distinct purposes.

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Coilover vs Struts: Unraveling the Confusion

Design: While coilovers combine both the coil spring and shock absorber in one unit, struts typically house only the shock absorber. Struts are also designed to support a portion of the vehicle's weight.

Adjustability: Coilovers can be adjusted to change ride height and damping rates. Struts are usually non-adjustable and provide a fixed ride height.

Installation: Coilovers often require more complex installation due to their adjustable nature. Struts are typically simpler to install.

Use Cases: Coilovers are popular among those looking for precise performance tuning, while struts are often used in stock or factory setups.

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Struts vs Shocks

Understanding the differences between struts and shock absorbers is crucial for proper suspension setup and maintenance.

Shocks vs Struts: Clearing the Confusion

Configuration: Struts are a structural component of the suspension and support a portion of the vehicle's weight. Shocks, on the other hand, are separate components solely responsible for dampening.

Complexity: Struts are generally more complex and often costlier to replace due to their integrated design. Shocks are simpler and less expensive to replace.

Ride Quality: Struts can have a more significant impact on ride quality and handling since they affect a vehicle's alignment and structural integrity. Shocks primarily focus on dampening and do not impact alignment.

Adjustability: Shocks typically offer little to no adjustability, while some struts may allow minor adjustments in ride height and damping rates.

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Coilovers vs Springs

Coilovers are often compared to lowering springs due to their shared goal of enhancing a vehicle's performance and appearance. However, they differ significantly in design and functionality.

Coilovers vs Lowering Springs: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Design: Coilovers integrate both coil springs and shock absorbers into a single unit, while lowering springs only replace the factory coil springs.

Adjustability: Coilovers are highly adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune ride height and damping rates. Lowering springs offer no such adjustability.

Cost: Coilovers are generally more expensive than lowering springs due to their adjustability and the inclusion of shocks.

Ride Quality: Lowering springs can provide a sportier and more aggressive appearance without sacrificing ride quality, while coilovers offer both a lower stance and greater adjustability for performance tuning.

Shocks vs Springs

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But the suspension game doesn't stop there; we also dive into the world of lowering springs vs coilovers. Whether you're seeking enhanced performance, improved handling, or that head-turning lowered look, we've got you covered. Our insights will help you make an informed choice, that matches your driving style and vehicle needs.

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Are Shocks and Struts the Same Thing?

A common misconception is that shocks and struts are the same. This chapter will dispel this myth and highlight their unique roles in your vehicle's suspension.

When it comes to your vehicle's suspension, understanding the difference between struts and shocks is crucial. At Shock Surplus, we provide valuable insights into the distinction between struts and shocks, answering the common question, "Are struts and shocks the same thing?"

Struts and shocks may look similar, but they serve distinct roles in your car's suspension system. Shocks, also known as shock absorbers, focus on dampening the oscillations of the coil springs, preventing your vehicle from bouncing excessively after hitting a bump. Struts, on the other hand, are more complex components that provide structural support and also assist in dampening.

Shock vs Strut: Not One and the Same

Function: Shocks are responsible for dampening the vehicle's spring oscillations, preventing excessive bouncing. Struts, on the other hand, serve as structural components that support part of the vehicle's weight and provide damping.

Design: Shocks are separate components, while struts are integrated into the suspension system, often including coil springs.

Replacement: Shocks are generally easier and less costly to replace than struts. Replacing struts often involves additional labor and expense due to their structural role.

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What are Struts for Cars?

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Difference Between Coilovers vs Shocks vs Struts

When it comes to optimizing your vehicle's suspension, discerning the difference between coilovers and shocks, as well as between struts and coilovers, is paramount. Shock Surplus is your trusted source for invaluable insights and premium solutions.

Coilovers offer a comprehensive suspension upgrade, combining coil springs and shock absorbers into a single unit. Their adjustability allows for fine-tuning ride height and damping rates, making them a favorite among performance enthusiasts.

On the other hand, struts provide structural support and damping, while shocks focus solely on dampening. Understanding the difference between struts and coilovers is essential for tailoring your vehicle's performance and ride comfort to your specific needs.

In conclusion, the world of suspension systems can be complex, but understanding the differences between coilovers, shocks, and struts is vital for making informed decisions about improving your vehicle's performance and ride comfort. Coilovers provide a high degree of adjustability and are favored by performance enthusiasts, while shocks and struts serve different functions and cater to various driving needs.

Before making any suspension upgrades, consider your driving habits and goals to determine whether coilovers, shocks, struts, or lowering springs are the best choice for your vehicle. By understanding the differences between these components, you can make an informed decision and enjoy an optimized driving experience tailored to your preferences. Remember that consulting with a professional mechanic or suspension expert can also be invaluable in achieving the best results for your specific vehicle and needs.