So, you're thinking about upgrading your 2017 Honda Civic with coilovers, huh? Awesome choice! Coilovers can seriously transform your driving experience, giving you better handling, a more aggressive stance, and the ability to fine-tune your suspension to your exact liking. But before you dive in, let's break down everything you need to know about coilovers for your Civic.

    What are Coilovers?

    Let's start with the basics. Coilovers are essentially suspension systems that combine a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit. Unlike traditional suspension setups, where the spring and shock are separate, coilovers offer a more integrated and adjustable solution. This means you can adjust the ride height of your car and, in some cases, the damping (the stiffness of the shock absorber) to achieve the perfect balance between comfort and performance.

    The main appeal of coilovers lies in their adjustability. Ride height adjustment is a big one; you can lower your Civic for a sportier look and improved handling, or raise it if you live in an area with rough roads or frequent snow. Damping adjustability, available on some higher-end coilovers, allows you to fine-tune how the suspension reacts to bumps and dips in the road. A stiffer setting can reduce body roll in corners, while a softer setting can improve ride comfort.

    When it comes to the 2017 Honda Civic, coilovers can make a world of difference. The Civic is already a fun-to-drive car, but upgrading to coilovers can sharpen its handling and give it a more planted feel. Plus, let's be honest, a lowered Civic just looks plain cool. Whether you're looking to improve your car's performance on the track, enhance its appearance, or simply enjoy a more engaging driving experience, coilovers are a worthwhile investment.

    Why Upgrade to Coilovers on Your 2017 Civic?

    Alright, let's dive deeper into why you might want to ditch your stock suspension for a set of coilovers on your 2017 Honda Civic. There are several compelling reasons, and depending on your priorities, one or more of these might resonate with you.

    • Improved Handling: This is probably the biggest reason why most people consider coilovers. The stock suspension on the Civic is designed for comfort and everyday driving, not necessarily for carving up corners. Coilovers, on the other hand, offer a stiffer and more controlled ride, which translates to reduced body roll, sharper turn-in, and better overall handling. With coilovers, your Civic will feel more planted and responsive, giving you more confidence behind the wheel, especially on twisty roads or at the track.

    • Adjustable Ride Height: Want to slam your Civic to the ground for that aggressive, lowrider look? Or maybe you just want to lower it a bit to reduce the fender gap and improve the stance? Coilovers make it easy to adjust the ride height to your exact preference. This not only enhances the appearance of your car but can also improve its aerodynamics and handling. Keep in mind that lowering your car too much can negatively impact ride quality and increase the risk of scraping on speed bumps and potholes, so it's important to find the right balance.

    • Damping Adjustability: Some coilovers come with adjustable damping, which allows you to fine-tune the stiffness of the shock absorbers. This is a game-changer for those who want to dial in their suspension for different driving conditions. For example, you might want a stiffer setting for track days and a softer setting for daily driving. Damping adjustability gives you the flexibility to optimize your suspension for comfort, performance, or a combination of both.

    • Enhanced Appearance: Let's face it, a lowered Civic looks awesome. Coilovers allow you to achieve the perfect stance, tucking the wheels nicely under the fenders and giving your car a more aggressive and sporty appearance. If you're into car shows or just want to turn heads wherever you go, coilovers are a great way to enhance the visual appeal of your Civic.

    • Improved Performance: Coilovers improve performance by giving you better control and improving handling. With less body roll and improved responsiveness, you'll be able to push your Civic harder in corners and enjoy a more engaging driving experience. Whether you're a serious track enthusiast or just enjoy spirited driving on the weekends, coilovers can unlock the full potential of your Civic's chassis.

    Choosing the Right Coilovers for Your 2017 Civic

    Okay, so you're sold on the idea of coilovers. Now comes the tricky part: choosing the right set for your 2017 Honda Civic. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But don't worry, I'm here to guide you through the process.

    Factors to Consider

    • Budget: Coilovers range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it's important to set a budget before you start shopping. Keep in mind that you generally get what you pay for, so don't skimp too much on quality. A good set of coilovers will last for years and provide a noticeable improvement in performance, while a cheap set might ride poorly and wear out quickly.

    • Intended Use: Are you primarily looking for improved handling on the street, or are you planning to track your Civic regularly? If you're mainly driving on the street, you might want to prioritize comfort and ride quality. If you're tracking your car, you'll want a set of coilovers that can handle the stresses of high-performance driving and offer precise damping adjustability.

    • Features: Consider which features are most important to you. Do you need adjustable damping? Do you want independent ride height adjustment (where you can adjust the ride height without affecting the spring preload)? Some coilovers also come with adjustable camber plates, which allow you to fine-tune the camber angle for optimal handling.

    • Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands that have a proven track record of producing high-quality coilovers. Some popular brands for Honda Civics include Tein, BC Racing, K-Sport, and Fortune Auto. Read reviews and do your research to make sure you're buying from a trusted manufacturer.

    Types of Coilovers

    • Entry-Level Coilovers: These are typically the most affordable option, offering basic ride height adjustment and a slightly stiffer ride than stock. They're a good choice for those who want to improve the look and handling of their Civic without breaking the bank. However, they usually lack damping adjustability and may not be as durable as higher-end options.

    • Mid-Range Coilovers: These offer a good balance of performance, features, and price. They typically include damping adjustability and offer a wider range of ride height adjustment. Mid-range coilovers are a great choice for those who want to fine-tune their suspension for different driving conditions and enjoy a more engaging driving experience.

    • High-End Coilovers: These are the cream of the crop, offering the highest levels of performance, adjustability, and durability. They often feature advanced technologies like remote reservoirs and adjustable camber plates. High-end coilovers are designed for serious track enthusiasts and those who demand the absolute best from their suspension.

    Installation and Maintenance

    Once you've chosen the perfect set of coilovers for your 2017 Honda Civic, it's time to get them installed. Unless you're an experienced mechanic with the right tools and knowledge, I highly recommend having a professional install your coilovers. Suspension work can be tricky, and it's important to make sure everything is installed correctly to avoid any safety issues.

    Installation Tips

    • Follow the Manufacturer's Instructions: Each set of coilovers comes with specific installation instructions, so be sure to read them carefully and follow them to the letter.

    • Use the Right Tools: Make sure you have all the necessary tools for the job, including a jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, and a torque wrench.

    • Torque Everything to Spec: It's crucial to torque all the bolts and nuts to the manufacturer's specifications. Undertightening can cause parts to come loose, while overtightening can damage the threads. A torque wrench is essential for this step.

    • Get an Alignment: After installing your coilovers, it's essential to get a wheel alignment. Lowering your car changes the suspension geometry, which can throw off the alignment and cause uneven tire wear. A professional alignment will ensure that your car handles properly and your tires last as long as possible.

    Maintenance Tips

    • Inspect Regularly: Regularly inspect your coilovers for any signs of wear or damage, such as leaks, cracks, or worn bushings.

    • Keep Them Clean: Keep your coilovers clean by washing them regularly with soap and water. This will help prevent corrosion and extend their lifespan.

    • Adjust as Needed: If you have adjustable coilovers, don't be afraid to experiment with different settings to find what works best for you. Just be sure to make small adjustments and keep track of your settings so you can always go back to where you started.

    Conclusion

    Upgrading to coilovers is a fantastic way to improve the handling, appearance, and overall driving experience of your 2017 Honda Civic. With the right set of coilovers and a proper installation, you'll be able to enjoy a more engaging and rewarding driving experience. Just remember to do your research, choose a reputable brand, and have them installed by a professional if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. Happy driving!

Lastest News