Adjusting your Lexus coilovers ride height can significantly improve both the look and performance of your vehicle. Whether you're aiming for a lower stance for aesthetic reasons or optimizing your ride quality, understanding how to make these adjustments properly is crucial. In this guide, we'll walk you through the entire process with simple, clear instructions and troubleshooting tips to help you achieve the perfect ride height.
What Are Coilovers and Why Do They Matter for Your Lexus?
Coilovers are a type of suspension system that combines a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit. They allow you to adjust the ride height of your vehicle, giving you more control over how the car sits. For your Lexus, this means you can fine-tune the suspension to suit your driving style, whether you're looking for a sportier look or better handling performance.
Why Should You Adjust Your Ride Height?
Adjusting the rear ride height of your Lexus can help you achieve a more aggressive stance, improve aerodynamics, or even enhance ride comfort. By lowering or raising the suspension, you can also fine-tune the handling characteristics to match different driving conditions. A well-adjusted coilover system can give your Lexus a personalized touch while ensuring optimal driving performance.
Let’s Get to Work: How to Adjust the Rear Ride Height
What Tools You’ll Need for the Job
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools. Here's what you'll need:
- A jackand jack stands for safely lifting your Lexus.
- A spanner wrenchto adjust the coilover rings.
- Socket wrenchesand ratchets for loosening lock nuts.
- Measuring tapeor a ride height gauge to measure the height after adjustment.
Make sure your car is on a flat surface, and that you have enough space to work safely.
Preparing Your Lexus for Suspension Adjustment
Start by lifting the rear of your Lexus with the jack and secure the vehicle with the jack stands. This will give you the clearance needed to work on the coilovers. Ensure that the wheels are off the ground, so the suspension is fully unloaded before making adjustments.
Adjusting the Height Like a Pro
Now that you're ready to adjust your Lexus's rear ride height, follow these steps:
- Loosening the Lock Nuts:Use your socket wrench to carefully loosen the lock nuts on the coilovers. These nuts secure the height adjustment rings in place, so be sure not to fully remove them, just loosen them enough to allow for movement.
- Adjusting the Ride Height Using the Threaded Body:The threaded body of the coilover is where the ride height is adjusted. Use your spanner wrench to rotate the adjustment ring either up or down, depending on whether you want to raise or lower the car.
- Tightening the Lock Nuts:After you've made the adjustment, tighten the lock nuts back into place to secure the ride height adjustment. Ensure the nuts are snug, but avoid overtightening.
What to Do When Things Don’t Go as Planned
When the Ride Height Won’t Change
If you've adjusted the coilover rings but the ride height hasn't changed, double-check to make sure the adjustment rings are not seized due to rust or dirt buildup. If they are stuck, you may need to apply some lubricant to loosen them. Additionally, make sure that the adjustment was done evenly on both sides of the vehicle.
One Side Too Low? Here’s How to Fix It
If one side of your Lexus is lower than the other, it's likely that the adjustment was not symmetrical. Recheck both sides and adjust the rings evenly. It’s important to measure both sides of the vehicle to ensure they are the same height.
Strange Noises or Bumpy Rides After Adjustment? Here’s Why
After adjusting your coilovers, you might notice some unusual noises or a bumpy ride. This could indicate that the suspension is not properly aligned or that the ride height is too low for the shock absorbers to function properly. If you’re hearing clunking noises, it could also be a sign that the coilovers are rubbing against other components. In this case, recheck the suspension alignment or consider raising the height slightly.
Troubleshooting Tips to Make Sure You Get It Right
How to Keep Both Sides Even
For the best results, measure the ride height of both sides of your Lexus frequently as you make adjustments. This will ensure that the car is sitting evenly. A simple way to do this is by using a tape measure to compare the distance from the ground to the fender on each side.
Double-Check Suspension Alignment
If the suspension components are not properly aligned, it can affect the performance of your coilovers. After making adjustments, it’s a good idea to get a professional alignment to ensure that everything is in the right place.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
One of the most common mistakes when adjusting coilovers is not loosening the lock nuts enough to allow for movement, or overtightening them when securing the height adjustment. Another issue is adjusting one side too much without comparing both sides. Always measure both sides to keep your Lexus level.
A Few Extra Things to Think About
How Adjusting Your Ride Height Affects Comfort and Handling
Lowering your car can improve handling by lowering the center of gravity, but it might reduce ride comfort on bumpy roads. On the other hand, raising the car may improve comfort but could affect the handling, particularly during high-speed cornering. Consider your driving needs and adjust accordingly.
When to Get Professional Help (If You Need It)
While adjusting your coilovers yourself is a rewarding task, it's always a good idea to seek professional help if you're unsure about the process. A certified mechanic can ensure that everything is set up properly and can also check for any underlying suspension issues that might require attention.
Got Questions? Here Are Some Quick Answers
Can I Do This on My Own, or Should I See a Pro?
You can definitely adjust the ride height on your Lexus yourself if you have the right tools and are comfortable with basic car maintenance. However, if you're unsure or encounter problems, it’s always best to consult a professional.
How Often Should I Check My Ride Height After Adjusting It?
After adjusting your ride height, it’s a good idea to check it every few months, especially if you drive over rough terrain. Suspension components can shift or wear over time, which may cause the ride height to change slightly.
