So, you're looking to upgrade the suspension on your 2017 Honda Civic Coupe with some coilovers? Awesome! You've come to the right place. Getting the right coilovers can dramatically improve your car's handling, stance, and overall driving experience. But with so many options out there, it's easy to get overwhelmed. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the best choice for your ride.

Understanding Coilovers

Before diving into specific recommendations, let's cover the basics. Coilovers are essentially adjustable suspension systems that replace your car's factory struts and springs. The term "coilover" comes from "coil over shock," which describes the design: a coil spring positioned over a shock absorber. This design offers several advantages over traditional setups, mainly adjustability.

The Benefits of Coilovers:

• Adjustable Ride Height: One of the main reasons people opt for coilovers is the ability to adjust their car's ride height. Want to slam your Civic for that aggressive look? Coilovers let you do that. Prefer a more subtle drop for improved handling without sacrificing comfort? Coilovers can do that too.
• Adjustable Damping: Many coilovers, especially higher-end models, offer adjustable damping. Damping refers to the shock absorber's ability to control the spring's motion. By adjusting damping, you can fine-tune your car's handling characteristics. Softer damping provides a more comfortable ride, while stiffer damping reduces body roll and improves responsiveness.
• Improved Handling: Coilovers can significantly improve your car's handling. By lowering the center of gravity and providing better control over suspension movement, coilovers reduce body roll, improve cornering grip, and enhance overall stability. This is a huge benefit for both spirited street driving and track days.
• Customization: Coilovers allow for a high degree of customization. You can choose spring rates, damping settings, and ride height to perfectly match your driving style and preferences. This level of customization is simply not possible with traditional suspension setups.

Key Considerations When Choosing Coilovers for Your 2017 Honda Civic Coupe

Alright, now that we know what coilovers are and why they're awesome, let's talk about what to consider when choosing a set for your 2017 Honda Civic Coupe. Several factors come into play, including your budget, driving style, and desired level of performance.

• Budget: Coilovers range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It's important to set a budget before you start shopping so you can narrow down your options. Keep in mind that you generally get what you pay for. Cheaper coilovers may not offer the same level of performance, durability, or adjustability as more expensive ones.
• Driving Style: How do you primarily use your Civic? Is it a daily driver, a weekend canyon carver, or a dedicated track machine? Your driving style will significantly influence the type of coilovers you should choose. For daily driving, you'll want a set that prioritizes comfort and ride quality. For more aggressive driving, you'll want a set that offers stiffer spring rates and adjustable damping.
• Spring Rates: Spring rates determine how stiff the suspension is. Higher spring rates provide better handling but can result in a harsher ride. Lower spring rates offer a more comfortable ride but may not provide enough support for aggressive driving. Choosing the right spring rates depends on your driving style and the type of roads you typically drive on.
• Damping Adjustment: As mentioned earlier, damping refers to the shock absorber's ability to control the spring's motion. Adjustable damping allows you to fine-tune your car's handling characteristics. If you plan on doing any kind of performance driving, adjustable damping is a must-have. Look for coilovers that offer independent compression and rebound damping adjustment for maximum control.
• Build Quality and Durability: Coilovers are a significant investment, so you want to make sure they're built to last. Look for coilovers made from high-quality materials with durable finishes. Read reviews and do your research to find brands with a reputation for reliability.
• Ease of Installation: While some people prefer to install coilovers themselves, others prefer to have them installed by a professional. If you plan on doing the installation yourself, look for coilovers that are relatively easy to install and come with clear instructions.

Recommended Coilovers for the 2017 Honda Civic Coupe

Okay, let's get to the fun part: specific recommendations! Here are a few coilovers that are popular choices for the 2017 Honda Civic Coupe, categorized by budget and performance level:

Entry-Level Coilovers (Budget-Friendly)

• Raceland Coilovers: Raceland coilovers are a very affordable option for those on a tight budget. They offer adjustable ride height but typically do not have adjustable damping. While they may not provide the same level of performance as more expensive coilovers, they can still be a good option for achieving a lower stance and slightly improved handling.
• Godspeed Project MonoSS Coilovers: Godspeed Project MonoSS coilovers are another budget-friendly option that offers a good balance of performance and affordability. They feature adjustable ride height and single-adjustable damping, allowing you to fine-tune the ride quality. These are a step up from Raceland and offer better overall performance.

Mid-Range Coilovers (Best Bang for Your Buck)

• Tein Flex Z Coilovers: Tein Flex Z coilovers are a popular choice for their excellent balance of performance, comfort, and affordability. They offer adjustable ride height and 16-way adjustable damping, allowing you to dial in the perfect ride for your driving style. Tein is a reputable brand with a long history of producing high-quality suspension components.
• Ksport Kontrol Pro Coilovers: Ksport Kontrol Pro coilovers are another great option in the mid-range category. They offer adjustable ride height and 36-way adjustable damping, providing even more fine-tuning options than the Tein Flex Z. Ksport coilovers are known for their durability and performance on both the street and the track.

High-End Coilovers (Maximum Performance)

• Ohlins Road & Track Coilovers: Ohlins is a Swedish suspension manufacturer renowned for producing some of the highest-quality coilovers on the market. Their Road & Track coilovers are designed for both street and track use, offering exceptional performance and comfort. They feature adjustable ride height and adjustable damping with separate compression and rebound adjustments, allowing for precise control over your car's handling.
• KW Variant 3 Coilovers: KW is another well-respected German suspension manufacturer that produces high-performance coilovers. Their Variant 3 coilovers are designed for serious performance enthusiasts and offer adjustable ride height and independent compression and rebound damping adjustment. KW coilovers are known for their exceptional build quality and performance on the track.

Installation Tips

Installing coilovers can be a rewarding DIY project, but it's important to do it correctly to ensure safety and optimal performance. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Read the Instructions Carefully: Before you start, read the installation instructions thoroughly. Make sure you understand each step and have all the necessary tools and equipment.
• Use the Right Tools: Using the right tools will make the job easier and prevent damage to your car. You'll need a good set of wrenches, sockets, and a torque wrench. A spring compressor is also essential for safely removing and installing the springs.
• Follow Torque Specifications: It's crucial to torque all the bolts to the correct specifications. Overtightening can damage the bolts or suspension components, while undertightening can lead to loose parts and potential safety hazards. Use a torque wrench to ensure accurate torque settings.
• Get an Alignment: After installing coilovers, it's essential to get a wheel alignment. Lowering your car changes the suspension geometry, which can affect the alignment. A proper alignment will ensure that your car handles correctly and prevent premature tire wear.
• Consider Professional Installation: If you're not comfortable installing coilovers yourself, it's best to have them installed by a professional. A qualified mechanic will have the experience and expertise to install them correctly and safely.

Fine-Tuning Your Coilovers

Once your coilovers are installed, you'll want to fine-tune them to get the most out of your suspension upgrade. Here are a few tips for dialing in your coilovers:

• Start with the Recommended Settings: Most coilovers come with recommended settings for ride height and damping. Start with these settings and then make small adjustments based on your driving style and preferences.
• Adjust Ride Height First: Adjust the ride height to your desired level. Keep in mind that lowering your car too much can negatively affect handling and ride quality. It's generally best to aim for a moderate drop that improves handling without sacrificing comfort.
• Adjust Damping to Your Liking: If your coilovers have adjustable damping, experiment with different settings to find what works best for you. Softer damping will provide a more comfortable ride, while stiffer damping will improve handling. Start with the softest setting and gradually increase the damping until you find the right balance.
• Take Notes and Experiment: Keep track of the changes you make and how they affect your car's handling. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for you. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution, so it's important to tailor your coilovers to your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

Choosing the right coilovers for your 2017 Honda Civic Coupe can be a game-changer. Whether you're aiming for a slammed stance, improved handling, or a combination of both, coilovers offer a level of customization and performance that's simply not possible with traditional suspension setups. By considering your budget, driving style, and desired level of performance, you can find the perfect set of coilovers to transform your Civic into the ultimate driving machine. Remember to do your research, read reviews, and don't be afraid to ask for help from experienced enthusiasts or professionals. Happy driving!