Introduction
Renowned for its luxurious design, smooth ride, and powerful performance, the Lexus GS300 is a standout vehicle. However, as any car enthusiast knows, there’s always room for improvement. One of the most effective upgrades to your GS300 is enhancing its suspension system with coilovers. These adjustable suspension components can transform your driving experience, offering improved handling, a customizable ride height, and a sportier feel.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of coilovers, exploring what makes them an excellent choice for your GS300. We’ll review some of the top coilover brands available and guide you on choosing the best option for your needs. Whether you’re looking to boost performance on the track or simply want a smoother daily commute, coilovers can make a significant difference. Let’s take a closer look at why upgrading to coilovers is wise for any GS300 owner.
Understanding Coilovers
Before diving into the top coilover options for your Lexus GS300, it’s essential to understand what coilovers are and how they differ from standard shocks and springs. Coilovers are a type of suspension system that combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into a single, integrated unit. This design allows for greater control over your vehicle’s ride height and damping settings, enabling you to fine-tune the suspension to your specific driving needs.
The primary benefit of coilovers is their adjustability. Unlike traditional suspension setups, coilovers can be adjusted to lower or raise your car’s ride height, providing the perfect stance and improved aerodynamics. This feature mainly benefits those who want to reduce body roll during cornering and enhance overall handling.
Another significant advantage of coilovers is their ability to improve ride quality. You can balance comfort and performance by fine-tuning the damping settings, making your GS300 more enjoyable to drive, whether on city streets or winding mountain roads.
Top Coilover Brands for GS300
Now that you have a better understand of coilovers and their benefits, let’s explore some of the top coilover brands available for your Lexus GS300. Each brand offers unique features and advantages, catering to different preferences and budgets.
BC Racing
BC Racing is a well-known brand in the automotive world, praised for its high-quality coilovers that offer excellent performance and adjustability. BC Racing coilovers are designed to provide a comfortable ride on the street while delivering the firmness needed for track performance. With adjustable ride height and damping settings, BC Racing coilovers allow you to tailor your GS300’s suspension to your specifications. They are also relatively affordable, making them popular among car enthusiasts.
Tein
Tein is another respected suspension industry name known for its innovative technology and durable products. Tein coilovers are designed to offer exceptional handling and stability, making them ideal for daily and spirited driving on twisty roads. One of the standout features of Tein coilovers is their advanced damping force adjustment system, which allows you to switch between different driving modes easily. This versatility ensures that your GS300 remains comfortable during daily commutes and responsive during high-performance driving.
KW Suspension
KW Suspension is synonymous with premium quality and precision engineering. KW coilovers are highly regarded for their superior build quality and extensive adjustability. With options ranging from street comfort to full race performance, KW offers coilovers to suit every driving style and need. One of the critical benefits of KW coilovers is their inox-line stainless steel construction, which provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability. While they are pricier, the performance gains and longevity make KW coilovers a worthwhile investment for serious enthusiasts.
Choosing the Right Coilovers for Your GS300
When choosing the right coilovers for your Lexus GS300, several factors should be considered. First and foremost, think about your driving style. If you primarily use your GS300 for daily commuting, a set of coilovers focusing on comfort and ride quality would be ideal. On the other hand, if you enjoy spirited driving or track days, you should opt for coilovers that offer more aggressive damping and handling characteristics.
Budget is another crucial consideration. Coilovers can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it’s essential to find a set that fits within your financial constraints. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in quality coilovers from reputable brands will pay off in the long run with better performance and durability.
Installation Tips and Considerations
Installing coilovers on your GS300 can be a rewarding DIY project if you have some mechanical knowledge and the right tools. Here are some basic steps and tips to ensure a smooth installation process:
- Preparation: Gather all necessary tools and parts, including the coilovers, jack stands, and a jack.
- Safety First: Always work on a flat, stable surface and use jack stands to support the vehicle.
- Remove Old Suspension: Carefully remove the old shocks and springs, keeping all hardware organized.
- Install Coilovers: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new coilovers, paying close attention to torque specifications.
- Adjustments: Once installed, adjust the ride height and damping settings to your preference.
Common pitfalls to avoid include not double-checking torque settings and skipping alignment after installation. A proper alignment is crucial to ensure your GS300 handles correctly and to prevent premature tire wear.
Maintenance and Adjustments
Maintaining your coil-overs is essential to ensuring they continue to perform optimally. Regularly check for any wear or damage, and keep the threads clean to facilitate easy adjustments. It’s also a good idea to periodically inspect the damping settings and adjust them based on your driving conditions and preferences.
To get the most out of your coilovers, experiment with different settings to find the perfect balance between comfort and performance. Remember, minor adjustments can significantly affect how your GS300 handles and feels on the road.
Conclusion
Upgrading to coilovers is one of the best investments for your Lexus GS300. The improved handling, customizable ride height, and enhanced ride quality can transform your driving experience, making every journey more enjoyable. By choosing a reputable brand and installing and maintaining your coilovers properly, you’ll ensure your GS300 remains a pleasure to drive for years to come.