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The Toyota AE86 is a beloved car among enthusiasts, known for its lightweight design and exceptional handling characteristics. Upgrading the suspension can significantly improve both handling and performance, making it a popular modification. In this article, we will break down the costs associated with upgrading your AE86’s suspension.
Why Upgrade Your AE86’s Suspension?
Upgrading your AE86’s suspension can lead to numerous benefits, including:
- Improved handling and cornering stability
- Better ride quality
- Increased traction and grip
- Enhanced aesthetics with lowered stance
Types of Suspension Upgrades
There are several types of suspension upgrades available for the AE86, each with varying costs:
- Coilovers: Adjustable suspension that allows for customization of ride height and stiffness.
- Shock Absorbers: Replacement of factory shocks with performance-oriented options.
- Sway Bars: Upgrading sway bars can reduce body roll during cornering.
- Strut Braces: These improve chassis rigidity and handling response.
Cost Breakdown
Here’s a detailed cost breakdown for each type of suspension upgrade:
Coilovers
Coilover systems typically range from $800 to $2,500, depending on the brand and features. Popular brands include:
- BC Racing: $1,000
- Tein: $1,200
- KW: $2,000
Shock Absorbers
Replacing the stock shock absorbers can cost between $300 and $800. Options include:
- KYB Excel-G: $300
- Bilstein B6: $600
- Tokico Illumina: $700
Sway Bars
Upgrading sway bars generally costs between $200 and $600. Brands to consider are:
- Whiteline: $250
- Eibach: $400
- Cusco: $600
Strut Braces
Strut braces can range from $100 to $300, with options like:
- Tanabe: $100
- Cusco: $200
- Beatrush: $300
Installation Costs
If you choose to have a professional install your suspension upgrades, you should factor in labor costs. Typical labor rates range from $75 to $150 per hour, and installation can take between 2 to 4 hours depending on the complexity of the upgrades.
Estimated Labor Costs
Here’s an estimated breakdown of labor costs based on the installation time:
- 2 hours: $150 – $300
- 3 hours: $225 – $450
- 4 hours: $300 – $600
Total Cost Estimate
To summarize, here’s a total cost estimate for upgrading your AE86’s suspension:
- Coilovers: $800 – $2,500
- Shock Absorbers: $300 – $800
- Sway Bars: $200 – $600
- Strut Braces: $100 – $300
- Labor: $150 – $600
This brings the total estimated cost to approximately $1,600 to $5,900, depending on your choices.
Conclusion
Upgrading your AE86’s suspension can greatly enhance its performance and handling. By understanding the costs involved, you can make informed decisions on which upgrades to pursue. Whether you opt for coilovers, sway bars, or other components, the investment is sure to pay off in the driving experience.