Table of Contents
The Acura TL is a well-regarded luxury sedan known for its performance and comfort. However, many enthusiasts seek to enhance its handling characteristics further. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through suspension upgrades. This article reviews the installation of Koni struts and Eibach springs, focusing on their impact on the vehicle’s handling.
Why Upgrade Your Suspension?
Upgrading the suspension system can significantly improve your vehicle’s handling, ride quality, and overall driving experience. Here are some reasons why you might consider upgrading your Acura TL’s suspension:
- Improved Handling: Enhanced suspension components can provide better steering response and cornering stability.
- Reduced Body Roll: Upgraded springs and struts help minimize body roll during turns.
- Better Ride Quality: High-quality components can absorb bumps more effectively, leading to a smoother ride.
- Lowered Stance: Performance springs can lower the vehicle’s center of gravity, improving aesthetics and handling.
Overview of Koni Struts and Eibach Springs
Koni struts are renowned for their adjustable damping capabilities, allowing drivers to customize their ride quality and handling characteristics. Eibach springs are designed to lower the vehicle’s ride height while improving performance. Together, these components create a balanced suspension system that enhances the Acura TL’s driving dynamics.
Koni Struts
Koni struts feature a twin-tube design with adjustable settings, providing flexibility for different driving conditions. The key benefits include:
- Adjustable Damping: Tailor the stiffness of the struts to your preference.
- Durability: Built to withstand harsh driving conditions and provide long-lasting performance.
- Enhanced Stability: Improved control during cornering and braking.
Eibach Springs
Eibach springs are designed to work seamlessly with performance struts. The advantages of Eibach springs include:
- Lower Ride Height: Reduces the vehicle’s center of gravity for better handling.
- Progressive Spring Rate: Provides a comfortable ride while improving performance.
- Quality Construction: Made from high-tensile strength materials for durability.
Installation Process
Installing Koni struts and Eibach springs on your Acura TL requires some mechanical knowledge and the right tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the installation process:
Tools Required
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Spring compressor
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- Torque wrench
Step-by-Step Installation
Follow these steps to install the Koni struts and Eibach springs:
- Prepare the Vehicle: Park on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and lift the vehicle using a floor jack. Secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the Wheels: Use a socket set to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheels.
- Remove Old Struts and Springs: Disconnect the strut assembly from the vehicle by removing the bolts at the top and bottom. Use a spring compressor to safely remove the springs from the struts.
- Install Eibach Springs: Attach the Eibach springs to the Koni struts. Ensure they are seated correctly.
- Install Koni Struts: Reattach the strut assembly to the vehicle, securing it with the appropriate bolts.
- Reinstall Wheels: Put the wheels back on and tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground and remove jack stands.
- Test Drive: Take the car for a test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Performance Review
After installing the Koni struts and Eibach springs, the difference in handling was immediately noticeable. The Acura TL exhibited improved cornering stability and reduced body roll during turns. The adjustable damping feature of the Koni struts allowed for fine-tuning, making it easy to switch between a comfortable ride and a sportier setup.
Ride Quality
The ride quality remained comfortable, thanks to the progressive spring rates of the Eibach springs. Even on rough roads, the suspension absorbed bumps effectively, providing a balanced driving experience.
Overall Handling
The overall handling of the Acura TL improved significantly. The vehicle felt more planted during aggressive driving, and the steering response was sharper. This upgrade is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy spirited driving or frequent track days.
Conclusion
Upgrading the suspension on your Acura TL with Koni struts and Eibach springs is a worthwhile investment for any enthusiast. The combination of adjustable damping and quality springs enhances handling and ride quality, transforming the driving experience. Whether for daily driving or spirited outings, these upgrades provide a noticeable improvement that enhances the Acura TL’s performance.