Joseph Weaver Subaru cars are known for their superior handling and performance on both the road and off-road. However, if you’re looking to take your vehicle’s capabilities to the next level, improving your car suspension can make a world of difference. By raising your Subaru suspension, you can increase ground clearance, improve off-road handling, and enhance overall vehicle performance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of Subaru suspensions, provide tips on how to raise your suspension, and discuss the benefits of doing so.
Understanding Your Subaru Suspension
Before you can start modifying your suspension, it’s important to understand the different types of Subaru suspensions available. There are two main types: MacPherson strut suspension and double-wishbone suspension.
MacPherson Strut Suspension
This type of suspension is commonly used in Subaru’s front suspension. It utilizes a single strut for each wheel, which is attached to the upper part of the car’s chassis and the lower control arm. It’s a popular choice due to its simple design and lower cost.
Double-Wishbone Suspension
Subaru’s rear suspension typically uses a double-wishbone design, which is more complex and expensive than MacPherson strut suspension. It uses two wishbone-shaped arms to connect the wheel hub to the chassis, allowing for more precise control of wheel movement.
Determining Your Suspension Type
To determine which type of suspension your vehicle has, you can check your car’s owner manual or use an online VIN decoder tool. It’s important to know your suspension type to ensure you’re selecting the correct parts for modification.
Common Issues with Subaru Suspensions
While Subaru suspensions are generally reliable, there are a few common issues that can arise. One of the most common is sagging, which can occur over time as the suspension wears down. This can lead to reduced performance and lower ground clearance.
Tips on Raising Your Suspension
Now that you understand the basics of Subaru suspensions, let’s discuss the process of raising your suspension. Keep in mind that this process can vary depending on your Subaru model and suspension type.
Option 1: Install a Suspension Lift Kit
The most common method for raising your Subaru suspension is by installing a suspension lift kit. Lift kits are designed to raise your vehicle’s ride height by replacing stock components with taller ones. This is the most effective way to increase ground clearance, improve off-road handling, and enhance overall vehicle performance.
Option 2: Install Larger Tires
Another option for raising your suspension is by installing larger tires. This method won’t provide the same level of lift as a suspension lift kit, but it can help improve off-road capabilities and increase ground clearance.
Option 3: Adjust Your Suspension Settings
If you don’t want to invest in a lift kit or larger tires, you can adjust your suspension settings to raise your ride height. This can be done by adjusting your coilovers, shocks, or struts to increase the distance between the chassis and the ground.
Benefits of Raising Your Suspension
There are many benefits to raising your Subaru suspension, especially if you’re an off-road enthusiast. Here are a few of the key benefits:
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Increased ground clearance: Raising your suspension will provide more clearance between your vehicle’s undercarriage and the ground, allowing you to tackle rough terrain with ease.
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Better off-road handling: With a higher ride height and improved ground clearance, your car will be more capable of navigating rough terrain and obstacles.
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Enhanced vehicle performance: Raising your suspension can also improve overall handling and stability, giving you better control over your vehicle.
FAQ
Q: Can I raise my suspension without installing a lift kit?
A: Yes, you can adjust your suspension settings to raise your ride height, but this method won’t provide as much lift as a suspension lift kit.
Q: Will raising my suspension affect my fuel efficiency?
A: Yes, raising your suspension can have a small impact on fuel efficiency due to the increased weight and wind resistance of larger tires or suspension components.
Q: Is raising my suspension legal?
A: Yes, raising your suspension is legal as long as you comply with state and local laws regarding ride height and modifications.
Conclusion
Raising your Subaru suspension is a great way to take your vehicle’s capabilities to the next level. By investing in a suspension lift kit or adjusting your suspension settings, you can improve ground clearance, off-road handling, and overall vehicle performance. However, it’s important to understand your suspension type and take the necessary precautions to ensure your vehicle remains safe and legal on the road. With these tips and a little bit of know-how, you’ll be well on your way to maximizing your Subaru’s performance.
