Understanding Air Suspensions
Air suspension systems are unique because they don't rely on metal springs. Instead, they leverage airbags that function as bellows that inflate and deflate based on the input of several sensors.
For the airbags to inflate, an air compressor pumps air into them; this compressor is electric and connects to your car’s electrical power supply. This is important to note because, without the right battery or alternator, it's possible that it might not function properly.
Benefits of Air Suspension
Air suspensions offer a lot of unique benefits you can't find with coilovers. While they serve the same purpose, we cover what air suspensions do better down below.
Smoother Ride
One of the best reasons to switch to an air suspension is how smooth the ride will be. Since the suspension is controlled by airflow into and out of airbags, many air suspensions will automatically adjust ride height based on terrain, road conditions, or even custom settings from the driver. Overall, driving over small bumps, or even hitting a dirt road, will feel like you’re driving on a cloud.
Having a smoother ride isn't just good for you and your passengers; it also preserves other suspension parts. Fewer vibrations mean that parts won't wear down as rapidly.
Adjustable Suspension
Have you ever pulled up to a car meet and saw a line of cars with their bodies all but touching the pavement? If so, we hope that you were looking at an air suspension, otherwise, there would be a lot of scrapes and broken oil pans because air suspensions can adjust their ride height on the fly, unlike coilovers.
This means that you can have the perfect stance when parked, but also the ride height necessary to drive without dragging your transmission.
Better Grip
Whether you’re towing your Camaro to the dragstrip with your Mustang Mach-E, or you need the improved grip when turning corners, air suspensions offer better traction due to their ability to level out the entire suspension. Essentially, air suspension systems can make sure all your wheels are constantly in contact with the pavement, even if it's a bit uneven.
Drawbacks of Air Suspensions
Air suspensions may be a great addition for some people, but a nightmare for others. For example, it might be too expensive to purchase or maintain, especially if you’re driving on bad roads often. Learn more about the drawbacks of air suspensions below.
Expensive
The biggest issue with an air suspension is how much it can cost to install. Not only will you need a shop that's experienced with these suspensions, but you'll find that the parts can cost several thousand dollars, like AirPlus Air Struts with VERA Evo Management. While expensive, they're well worth the cost of that's the build and ride quality you’re after.
Not only are costs high for installation but maintaining these kits can also be a headache. Replacing a compressor, modifying the system, or replacing airbags can cost several hundred dollars per part.
Relies on Electricity
The compressor is powered by your vehicle’s electrical system, so if you have a battery or alternator problem, say goodbye to the suspension’s ability to adjust ride height. You'll be stuck at whatever height you’re set to, which can wreak havoc on your suspension system by the time you pull over and get to a shop.
Understanding Coilovers
A coilover suspension system is one of the most common options available, and you see them on many muscle cars from the factory. These systems combine a metal spring with a shock absorber into a single housing. When driving, this unit works together to distribute and reduce shock. The spring then absorbs any impacts from the road and the shock controls the spring’s rebound motion.
Benefits of Coilovers
Coilovers are great suspension parts and there's a reason they've been around for so long. Plus, many drivers opt for coilovers over air suspension systems for unique benefits that we cover below.
Handling
Air suspensions and coilovers are pretty neck-and-neck when it comes to handling for daily driving, but when it comes to precision performance coilovers gain the edge. This is because they can reduce body role effectively and on racing surfaces they may distribute weight more evenly.
Durability
Coilovers are more durable when compared to air suspensions. You won't have to worry about them breaking right away, and some of them can even take a beating. What's more, they're more affordable to replace and repair because there aren't as many parts.
Affordability
Whether you’re doing the job yourself or having a shop install them, coilovers are easier and more affordable to install compared to air suspension systems. Parts are cheaper, labor costs are less, and maintenance is more affordable all around.
Drawbacks of Coilovers
Coilovers aren't perfect, and their drawbacks are well-documented, especially when you compare them to air suspension systems. We take you through the common drawbacks of these systems below.
Rougher Ride
If you’re going with coilovers for high-performance driving and end up lowering your ride, get ready to feel every little bump. Sure, you can mitigate this to an extent, but coilovers often have a rougher ride than air suspensions, especially if the terrain is uneven.
Suspension Bottoming Out
Plan on lowering your ride? If so, be prepared to change how you drive, especially on uneven terrain, because coilovers can cause you to bottom out. There's also a chance of damaging other suspension parts, your wheels, and your exhaust if you scrape the pavement one too many times.
Get the Air or Coilover Suspension You Need Today!
When you’re looking to upgrade your ride’s suspension, take some time to understand the benefits and drawbacks of air and coilover suspensions. More importantly, make sure you focus on how these systems will impact your specific vehicle and ride quality for how you plan on driving it.
Whether you want to put your car on bags to have the perfect stance or you want coilovers that can maximize your performance at the track, you're in the right place. Our sales techs will help you find the right parts for your build, and ordering online is hassle-free.
