Billy Covington If you own a Subaru Impreza, you already know that it’s an impressive car with great handling and performance. However, if you want to take your driving experience to the next level, upgrading your suspension is the way to go. A suspension upgrade can improve your car’s stability, cornering ability, and overall performance. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about upgrading your Subaru Impreza suspension, from the different types of upgrades available to the installation process and tips for maintenance.
Introduction to Suspension Upgrades and Their Benefits
Upgrading your suspension can have a significant impact on your car’s performance. A suspension upgrade can help improve:
- Handling and control: Upgraded suspension components like sway bars, coilovers, and strut tower braces can help reduce body roll and improve cornering ability, providing a more responsive and stable ride.
- Comfort: Suspension upgrades can also improve your car’s ride quality, making it more comfortable on rough roads and reducing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).
- Appearance: Some suspension upgrades, such as lowering springs, can give your car a lowered and more aggressive stance.
Types of Suspension Upgrades
There are several types of suspension upgrades available for the Subaru Impreza, including:
Shocks and Struts
Upgraded shocks and struts can improve your car’s handling and ride comfort. High-performance shocks and struts can provide better damping, reducing body roll, and improving ride quality. If you are looking for more adjustability and customizability, coilovers are a great option as they allow for individual height and damping adjustment.
Springs
Lowering springs can help improve your car’s appearance and handling by lowering the center of gravity and reducing body roll. They also provide the added benefit of improving aerodynamics, which can boost fuel economy.
Sway Bars
Adding sway bars can help reduce body roll and improve cornering ability. Upgraded sway bars are stiffer than the factory components, reducing the amount of twist and flex in the suspension, providing more control in turns.
Bushings
Upgraded suspension bushings can improve ride comfort and reduce NVH. These bushings are stiffer than the factory components, which reduces deflection and keeps the wheels aligned.
Choosing the Right Suspension Upgrade
When choosing the right suspension upgrades for your Subaru Impreza, you must consider the vehicle’s intended use, driving style, and budget. If you are looking for a more comfortable ride on rough roads, upgraded shocks and struts and bushings would be a good place to start. For a more performance-oriented setup, consider upgrading sway bars and springs. If you want the ultimate in adjustability and customizability, coilovers are the best option.
Installation Process
The installation process for suspension upgrades can vary depending on the type of upgrade. However, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use the right tools. If you’re not confident with your ability to install the new components, it’s best to seek professional help.
Coilovers
Coilover installation requires more work than other types of suspension upgrades. You’ll need to remove the existing suspension components, including the springs and shocks or struts, and install the new coilovers. The process involves adjusting ride height and damping settings to achieve the desired ride quality and performance.
Sway Bars
Sway bar installation is relatively simple and involves removing the old sway bars and installing the new ones. It’s crucial to choose the correct sway bar size and stiffness for your car.
Springs
Spring installation involves removing the old springs and installing the new ones. However, it’s essential to note that lowering springs can cause clearance issues, so ensure that you have enough clearance between the tires and fenders.
Bushings
Bushings are usually designed to replace the original rubber bushings with polyurethane ones. The installation process involves removing the old bushings and installing the new ones.
Maintenance
Maintaining your upgraded suspension is essential for longevity, safety, and optimal performance. Regular inspecting and cleaning of the suspension components are vital to prevent wear and damage. Ensure all bolts and nuts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications. Regular alignment checks and adjustments are also essential to maintain tire wear and handling.
FAQ
Do suspension upgrades affect my car’s warranty?
Most suspension upgrades are legal and won’t affect your car’s warranty. However, some manufacturers may deny any suspension-related warranty claims if the modification is found to be the root cause of the issue.
Can suspension upgrades cause my car to fail inspection?
In most states, lowering your car below a certain height will cause it to fail inspection. It’s essential to ensure that any suspension upgrade adheres to local laws and regulations to avoid facing legal issues.
How do I know when it’s time to upgrade my suspension?
Suppose your car’s handling feels loose or unstable, and you notice more body roll than usual. In that case, it’s a sign that your suspension needs an upgrade. A rough or uncomfortable ride and excessive tire wear are also signs that your suspension needs attention.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Subaru Impreza suspension can vastly improve your driving experience. Whether it’s handling and control, comfort, or appearance, there is a suspension upgrade that can suit your needs. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to achieving peak performance in your vehicle.
