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Time to read 4 min
The suspension system is a critical aspect of any vehicle, especially when it comes to Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive performance. As a Subaru owner, you may seek ways to elevate your vehicle's handling capabilities, ride comfort, and aesthetics through performance upgrades. A properly tuned system not only enhances your Subaru's handling dynamics but also provides an increased sense of connection and confidence on the road or track.
With this in-depth knowledge at your fingertips, you'll be well-prepared to make confident, informed decisions when it comes to enhancing your Subaru's handling capabilities through upgrading. Embark on your journey towards discovering the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and aesthetics as you explore the exciting world of Subaru suspension tuning.
Before undertaking any Subaru suspension modifications, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the primary components and their functions. Armed with this knowledge, you can identify which areas to target for the greatest handling improvements. Key suspension components include:
1. Coilovers:
Featuring adjustable ride height, damping, and spring preload, coilovers offer considerable versatility and customization in terms of both performance and aesthetics.
2. Lowering Springs:
These springs aim to reduce your Subaru's ride height and center of gravity, providing enhanced handling, reduced body roll, and a more aggressive stance.
3. Sway Bars:
By connecting the left and right wheels, sway bars increase the rigidity of your suspension system, leading to improved handling and minimized body roll.
4. End Links:
Acting as the attachment point between sway bars and suspension components, robust aftermarket end links contribute to overall suspension stability.
5. Strut Bars:
These bars reduce chassis flex and enhance suspension rigidity, resulting in more predictable and precise handling characteristics.
6. Bushings:
Upgrading to stiffer polyurethane or solid bushings can remove unwanted flex from your suspension system, enhancing steering response and overall handling.
Understanding each component's role within your suspension system lays the foundation for a strategic and effective upgrade plan tailored to your driving preferences.
To maximize your Subaru's handling performance and tire longevity, proper alignment and suspension geometry are essential. Gain an understanding of the following alignment and geometry aspects:
1. Camber:
The inward or outward tilt of your wheels as viewed from the front of the vehicle is crucial for cornering performance and tire wear. A slight negative camber typically enhances handling, but excessive negative camber can lead to premature tire wear.
2. Caster:
This refers to the angle between the steering axis and vertical axis when viewed from the side of the car. Increased positive caster can enhance high-speed stability and steering response.
3. Toe:
The angle formed by your wheels pointing toward or away from each other can impact tire wear and vehicle stability. Zero toe or slight toe-in settings are common for balanced tire wear and handling performance.
Achieving optimal alignment and geometry settings for your specific driving needs allows you to fully realize your Subaru's handling potential while preserving tire life.
When it comes to suspension upgrades, compatibility plays an essential role in achieving the desired handling, comfort, and aesthetic outcomes. Consider these factors when planning your suspension modifications:
1. Vehicle Model and Driving Intent:
Ensure that your selected suspension components are designed to fit your specific Subaru model and align with your driving needs, be it daily driving, spirited weekend cruises, or track days.
2. Performance vs. Comfort:
Balancing performance gains with ride comfort is critical for maintaining a satisfying driving experience. Components like coilovers can offer adjustability to find the ideal balance to suit your preferences.
3. Chassis Bracing:
Enhance your suspension upgrades with complementary chassis bracing, which can further improve handling, stability, and driver feedback.
4. Sequential Upgrades:
Suspension modifications often involve a step-by-step approach. Start with sway bars or lowering springs, then progress to more advanced components as your handling goals evolve.
By planning your suspension upgrades with compatibility and a clear progression strategy in mind, you can ensure a cohesive and effective outcome that satisfies your driving expectations.
Proper installation of your suspension components is crucial for achieving the maximum handling benefits and component longevity. Follow these tips and best practices as you undertake your Subaru suspension upgrades:
1. Professional vs. DIY:
Suspension installations can be complex, and inexperienced DIYers may risk improper installation or damage. Consider enlisting a professional's help to ensure correct installation and setup.
2. Post-Installation Alignment:
It's vital to have an alignment performed after any suspension modifications, as this assists in optimizing handling performance while mitigating premature tire wear.
3. Suspension Break-In:
Some suspension components, such as springs and bushings, require a break-in period. Be prepared for changes in handling characteristics and ride comfort as these components settle in and become accustomed to your driving habits.
By adhering to these installation tips and best practices, you can guarantee that your suspension upgrades perform optimally and provide lasting benefits for your Subaru.
Upgrading your Subaru's suspension system presents an opportunity to enhance your vehicle's handling dynamics, ride comfort, and aesthetic appeal. Equipped with comprehensive knowledge about suspension components, alignment, compatibility considerations, and installation practices, you're well-prepared to make informed decisions as you embark on your Subaru suspension tuning journey.
As you explore and tailor your vehicle's performance capabilities, remember that a balanced approach to suspension modifications will yield the most satisfying and enjoyable driving experience. Get ready to experience a newfound level of driving confidence and engagement as you unleash the full potential of your Subaru's handling prowess.
At Subimods, we offer a wide range of Subaru suspensions and suspension components to help you achieve your desired performance goals. Our team of experts can help you navigate the different options and make informed decisions based on your specific needs.
With the right upgrades and proper installation, you can transform your Subaru's performance and enjoy a more exhilarating driving experience.
Browse a small collection of the quality suspensions we have available in the Subimods catalog in the gallery below:
It is the primary goal at Subimods to create a powerful channel between the growing community of inspired enthusiasts and the productive marketplace who provides a plethora of quality solutions which assist in bringing victory to their lives through the performance of their cars.
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For additional information regarding aftermarket parts for your Subaru, please visit our website and explore the section dedicated to your year, model and platform.
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