Why Upgrade to a Flyin' Miata Suspension Kit

The Mazda Miata is celebrated for its nimble handling and balanced chassis, but even the best-engineered stock suspension can leave room for improvement—especially on older models or when you push the car harder. A Flyin' Miata suspension kit transforms your Miata with stiffer springs, higher-performance dampers, and matched sway bars (in many kits) that reduce body roll, sharpen turn-in, and provide more consistent grip. Whether you are building an autocross contender, a weekend canyon carver, or simply want a more planted daily driver, these kits are engineered specifically for Miata platforms. Below we cover everything you need—tools, step-by-step installation, pricing, and pro tips so you can do the job right the first time.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, gather the following tools and supplies. Having everything on hand will keep the job moving smoothly and safely.

  • Socket set – metric sizes (10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm, 19mm, 21mm)
  • Wrench set – combination wrenches in the same metric sizes
  • Torque wrench – a ½-inch drive torque wrench (25–150 ft-lb range)
  • Jack and jack stands – a low-profile floor jack and four sturdy stands
  • Pry bar – for separating ball joints or control arms
  • Spring compressors – essential if you are reusing stock top hats or disassembling struts; some Flyin' Miata kits come pre-assembled, so check first
  • Flyin' Miata suspension kit – verify your kit includes all dampers, springs, and any required hardware
  • Safety glasses and gloves
  • Penetrating oil – for rusty bolts (e.g., PB Blaster or WD-40 Specialist)
  • Anti-seize compound – for reassembly
  • Shop rags or paper towels

Pre-Installation Preparation

Choose the Right Kit for Your Miata

Flyin' Miata offers multiple suspension tiers: their Stage 1 kit (Fox coilovers for street use), Stage 2 (adjustable coilovers with firmer rates for track days), and the ClubSport package (for maximum track performance). Verify that the kit you purchased matches your Miata generation (NA, NB, NC, ND). If you are unsure, consult the Flyin' Miata website or call their support.

Work on a Level Surface

Perform the job in a garage or on a flat driveway. Engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels (if lifting the front first). This prevents the car from rolling during disassembly.

Soak Rusty Bolts Ahead of Time

Spray penetrating oil onto the lower shock bolts, upper shock mount nuts, and sway bar end link nuts (if applicable). Let it sit for at least 15 minutes while you gather your tools.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Below is the procedure for a typical NA/NB Miata with a standard Flyin' Miata coilover kit. For NC or ND models, some steps differ, but the general approach is similar. Always cross-reference with the official Flyin' Miata instructions.

Step 1: Loosen the Lug Nuts and Lift the Vehicle

Using your socket set, break loose the lug nuts on all four wheels (do not remove them yet). Position the jack under the front crossmember and raise the car. Place jack stands under the reinforced frame rails just behind the front wheels. Repeat for the rear, lifting under the differential housing. Lower the car onto the stands so it is stable.

Step 2: Remove the Wheels

Remove the lug nuts and set the wheels aside. With the weight off the tires, you now have access to the suspension hardware.

Step 3: Remove the Old Front Shocks and Springs

Begin at the front:

  • Support the lower control arm with a jack or a block of wood to relieve tension on the lower shock bolt.
  • Remove the upper shock mount nuts (typically 12mm or 14mm) from two or three studs accessible under the hood.
  • Use a pry bar if needed to pop the lower shock bolt free. Pull the old shock assembly out.
  • If the springs are still attached, use spring compressors to safely remove them from the old damper. Do not skip this step—the springs are under high pressure.

Step 4: Install the New Front Coilovers

Many Flyin' Miata coilovers come pre-assembled, but you should still double-check spring pre-load and ride height adjustments. Set the ride height using the adjustable perches according to your target (see section on setting ride height below). Insert the new coilover into the upper mount and hand-tighten the nuts. Install the lower bolt and torque to 60–80 ft-lb (refer to kit specifications). Lower the control arm so the suspension is under load, then torque the upper nuts to 20–30 ft-lb.

Step 5: Repeat for the Rear Shocks

In the rear, the shock is mounted inside the trunk or wheel well (NA/NB). Remove the interior trim panels if necessary to access the top mount. Support the lower control arm, then remove the lower shock bolt. Disconnect the top mount and extract the old shock. Install the new Flyin' Miata shock and torque all fasteners. For many kits, you will need to reuse the stock top hats unless your kit includes new ones.

Step 6: Reinstall Sway Bars (If Included)

If your Flyin' Miata suspension kit came with upgraded sway bars, now is the time to install them. Begin by disconnecting the end links from the old bar. Remove the U-brackets holding the bar to the chassis. Install the new bar with the supplied bushings and brackets. Tighten the U-bracket bolts to about 30–40 ft-lb. Reattach the end links with a slight pre-load (do not fully tighten until the car is on the ground).

Adjustable coilovers allow you to fine-tune ride height. A typical street setup for a Miata is about 12.0 to 12.5 inches from the center of the wheel hub to the fender lip. Lower heights improve handling but may require a bump stop check. After setting each corner, push down on the car to settle the suspension, then measure again. For maximum performance, consider a professional corner balance.

Step 8: Reinstall the Wheels and Lower the Car

Put the wheels back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Raise the car enough to remove the jack stands, then lower it completely. Torque the lug nuts in a star pattern to 80–90 ft-lb (check Miata spec). Roll the car forward and backward a few feet to let the suspension settle, then re-check ride height.

Step 9: Final Inspection and Torque Check

After installation, go over every bolt: lower shock bolts, upper mount nuts, sway bar brackets, and end links. Ensure nothing is loose or rubbing. Turn the steering lock-to-lock and confirm the coilover springs do not contact the frame or tire. Test the brake lines and ABS wires for clearance.

Pricing Information

Costs vary by kit, options, and whether you install yourself or hire a shop. Below is a realistic breakdown based on 2025 pricing.

  • Flyin' Miata Suspension Kit (coilovers): $1,000 – $2,500 depending on model (Stage 1, Stage 2, or ClubSport).
  • Optional sway bars: $200 – $400 extra.
  • Tools (if not already owned): $100 – $300 for a decent floor jack, stands, spring compressors, and a torque wrench.
  • Professional installation labor: $500 – $1,000 (typically 6–10 hours labor rate $75–$125/hr).
  • Alignment after installation: $100 – $200 (highly recommended).

Buying a full kit from Flyin' Miata often saves money compared to piecing together components. The kits are engineered as a system, so you avoid compatibility issues. Check the Flyin' Miata suspension kit page for current prices and package deals.

Pro Tips for a Successful Installation

Use an Alignment Rack Immediately

Any change in ride height alters your camber, caster, and toe settings. An alignment after installation will protect your tires and maximize grip. Tell the alignment tech the new ride height so they can adjust accordingly.

Check Bump Stops

If you lowered the car significantly, you may need shorter bump stops to prevent harsh suspension bottoming. Flyin' Miata includes appropriate bump stops in their kits, but verify they are installed correctly.

Break-In Period

New dampers need about 500 miles to fully break in. During this time, avoid aggressive driving and re-check torque settings after the first 100 miles. The ride quality may improve noticeably after break-in.

Don't Forget the Little Things

Replace worn-out suspension bushings at the same time if your Miata has high mileage. Also, consider fresh sway bar end links and tie rod ends—they are inexpensive and make a big difference in feel.

Conclusion

Installing a Flyin' Miata suspension kit is one of the best upgrades you can make to your Miata. It transforms the car's character from a fun but softly-sprung roadster into a precise, confidence-inspiring machine. By following this step-by-step guide, using the right tools, and taking your time, you can complete the installation over a weekend and save hundreds of dollars in labor. The result is a Miata that turns sharper, rides flatter, and stays more planted in every corner. With proper setup and an alignment, you will enjoy a more dynamic driving experience that keeps you smiling mile after mile.