Coilovers — coil spring over damper units — are the most popular suspension modification for car enthusiasts wanting to lower their car, improve handling or prepare it for track use. In 2026, understanding how coilovers work, the difference between lowering springs and full coilovers, the legal requirements and what to expect from the installation helps you decide if coilovers are right for your car.

Lowering Springs vs Full Coilovers

Lowering Springs

Lowering springs replace the standard springs with shorter, stiffer units, reducing the car's ride height. They are fitted with the original dampers. Lowering springs are less expensive but combine the original dampers — designed for the original ride height — with stiffer springs, which can result in inadequate dampening and a harsh ride. Cost: GBP 100 to GBP 400 for a set.

Full Coilover Kits

Coilovers replace both the spring and damper as an integrated unit. They allow independent adjustment of ride height and dampening. Quality coilovers are designed specifically for the vehicle's weight and intended use, providing matched spring and dampening rates. Cost: GBP 400 to GBP 2,000+ depending on quality.

Adjustable vs Fixed Coilovers

  • Fixed lowering: Pre-set height, no adjustment — less expensive
  • Height-adjustable: Allows spring perch height adjustment to change ride height without changing spring rate
  • Damper-adjustable: Multiple click adjustments to the dampening rate — from soft to firm
  • Fully adjustable: Height, dampening and sometimes camber adjustment — premium coilovers

Coilover Installation Cost 2026

  • Lowering springs — parts only: GBP 100 to GBP 400
  • Lowering springs — fitted: GBP 250 to GBP 600 including fitting and wheel alignment
  • Coilover kit — parts only: GBP 400 to GBP 2,000
  • Coilover kit — fitted: GBP 600 to GBP 2,500 including fitting and geometry setup
  • Full geometry setup after install: GBP 80 to GBP 200

Coilovers and the MOT

Lowering springs and coilovers that do not significantly alter the vehicle's fundamental suspension geometry typically pass the MOT without issue. Requirements:

  • The vehicle must have adequate ground clearance — the exhaust, sump or chassis must not scrape on the road surface
  • Suspension travel must not be restricted to the point where the wheels leave adequate contact with the road
  • Brake lines and fuel lines must not be stressed or damaged
  • The steering geometry must be within acceptable parameters