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The Subaru WRX is known for its impressive performance, especially in terms of handling and cornering capabilities. For enthusiasts looking to enhance their vehicle’s suspension for aggressive cornering, several modifications can significantly improve stability, responsiveness, and overall driving experience. In this article, we will explore the essential suspension mods for the VB WRX, focusing on springs, struts, and mounts.
Understanding Suspension Components
The suspension system of a vehicle plays a crucial role in its handling characteristics. It consists of various components that work together to provide stability, comfort, and control. For the VB WRX, upgrading specific parts can lead to enhanced cornering performance.
Upgrading Springs
One of the first modifications WRX owners consider is upgrading the springs. Springs are essential for managing the vehicle’s ride height and overall handling. By choosing the right springs, you can lower the center of gravity, which improves cornering stability.
Types of Springs
- Lowering Springs: These springs reduce ride height, enhancing the vehicle’s stance and lowering the center of gravity.
- Performance Springs: Designed for improved handling, these springs often feature stiffer rates for better cornering response.
Benefits of Upgrading Springs
Upgrading to performance springs can provide several benefits, including:
- Improved cornering stability
- Reduced body roll during turns
- Enhanced overall handling responsiveness
Choosing the Right Struts
Struts are another critical component of the suspension system. They play a vital role in controlling the vehicle’s movement and maintaining tire contact with the road. Upgrading struts can significantly enhance the WRX’s handling capabilities.
Types of Struts
- OEM Replacement Struts: These are designed to match the factory specifications and provide a balance between comfort and performance.
- Performance Struts: These struts are engineered for aggressive driving, offering improved damping characteristics and responsiveness.
Benefits of Upgrading Struts
Upgrading the struts can lead to various performance enhancements, such as:
- Better control during aggressive cornering
- Improved ride quality and comfort
- Enhanced tire grip and road feel
Mounts and Their Importance
Mounts are often overlooked but are vital for the overall performance of the suspension system. They connect the struts to the vehicle’s chassis and play a crucial role in absorbing vibrations and impacts.
Types of Mounts
- OEM Mounts: These are factory mounts that provide adequate performance for daily driving.
- Performance Mounts: Designed for enhanced rigidity and responsiveness, these mounts can improve handling and feedback.
Benefits of Upgrading Mounts
Investing in performance mounts can offer several advantages:
- Improved suspension responsiveness
- Better alignment and stability during cornering
- Reduced noise and vibrations from the road
Combining Mods for Optimal Performance
For the best results, consider combining spring, strut, and mount upgrades. This holistic approach ensures that all components work together efficiently, maximizing performance and handling on the road.
Recommended Combinations
- Lowering springs with performance struts and mounts for aggressive cornering.
- Performance springs with OEM struts for a balance between comfort and handling.
Conclusion
Upgrading the suspension on your VB WRX with the right springs, struts, and mounts can transform your driving experience, especially when it comes to aggressive cornering. Each component plays a vital role in enhancing performance, and when combined thoughtfully, they can lead to significant improvements in handling and stability. Whether you’re a daily driver or a track enthusiast, these mods can help you unlock the full potential of your WRX.