How to Dial in Wrx Coilovers: Adjustments for Street and Track Use

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Dialing in your WRX coilovers can significantly enhance your driving experience on both the street and the track. Proper adjustments can lead to improved handling, comfort, and overall performance. This article will guide you through the essential adjustments needed for optimal performance.

Understanding Coilovers

Coilovers combine the shock absorber and spring into a single unit, allowing for adjustable ride height and damping settings. They are popular among car enthusiasts for their versatility and performance benefits.

Key Adjustments for Coilovers

  • Ride Height
  • Damping Settings
  • Camber Adjustment
  • Toe Settings

1. Ride Height

Adjusting the ride height affects both aesthetics and performance. Lowering your WRX can improve handling, but it may also lead to a harsher ride. Consider the following when adjusting ride height:

  • Lowering the car can reduce body roll.
  • A higher ride height may enhance comfort on rough roads.
  • Ensure sufficient clearance to prevent rubbing on the tires.

2. Damping Settings

Damping settings control how quickly the suspension absorbs bumps and rebounds. Coilovers typically have adjustable damping, allowing you to fine-tune your ride:

  • Soft settings provide more comfort for daily driving.
  • Stiffer settings enhance performance on the track.
  • Adjust damping based on the type of road or track conditions.

3. Camber Adjustment

Camber refers to the angle of the wheels in relation to the road. Adjusting camber can improve tire contact and handling:

  • Negative camber can enhance cornering grip.
  • Too much negative camber can lead to uneven tire wear.
  • Find a balance between track performance and street usability.

4. Toe Settings

Toe settings determine whether the wheels point inward or outward when viewed from above. Proper toe settings can enhance stability:

  • Toe-in can improve straight-line stability.
  • Toe-out can enhance cornering responsiveness.
  • Adjust toe based on driving style and conditions.

Adjustments for Street Use

For daily driving, comfort and drivability should be prioritized. Here are some recommended settings:

  • Ride Height: Set to a moderate level for comfort.
  • Damping: Use softer settings for a smoother ride.
  • Camber: Keep near factory settings to avoid tire wear.
  • Toe: A slight toe-in can enhance stability.

Adjustments for Track Use

On the track, performance is key. Adjustments should focus on maximizing grip and handling:

  • Ride Height: Lower for improved aerodynamics and handling.
  • Damping: Stiffer settings to reduce body roll.
  • Camber: Increase negative camber for better cornering grip.
  • Toe: Adjust to slight toe-out for enhanced responsiveness.

Testing and Fine-Tuning

After making adjustments, it’s crucial to test your WRX to ensure the settings work for your driving style. Consider the following:

  • Take your car for a test drive on both the street and track.
  • Pay attention to how the car handles and feels.
  • Make incremental adjustments as needed for optimal performance.

Conclusion

Dialing in your WRX coilovers can make a significant difference in your driving experience. By understanding and adjusting key settings for both street and track use, you can achieve a balance of comfort and performance. Take the time to experiment with these adjustments to find what works best for you.