Coilover suspension in winter: maintenance and care for optimal performance

Winter brings unique challenges for your car, especially for your coilover suspension. Cold, snow, and road salt can take a toll on your suspension. This guide will show you how to optimally maintain and care for your coilover suspension in winter to ensure top performance.

Why is winter maintenance important?

In winter, coilovers are exposed to extreme conditions. The cold can alter the damping characteristics, and salt and snow can cause corrosion. Without regular maintenance, your suspension's performance can be compromised and long-term damage can occur.

Preparing for winter

Before winter really begins, there are some preventative measures you should take:

• Protective coatings: Apply a protective coating to the threaded areas to protect them from salt and moisture.
• Component Check: Make sure all suspension parts are in perfect working order before the cold months begin.

Cleaning the chassis before winter

A thorough cleaning before winter is crucial:

• Remove dirt and deposits: Clean all parts thoroughly to remove dirt and old deposits.
• Suitable cleaning agents: Use special cleaning agents for chassis that are gentle and effective.

Protection against corrosion

Corrosion is the biggest enemy of your coilover suspension in winter:

• Corrosion inhibitor: Apply a high-quality corrosion inhibitor to all metal parts.
• Coatings and sealants: Consider applying additional protective coatings or sealants to extend the lifespan.

Regular inspection in winter

Regular checks help to identify problems early:

• Important checkpoints: Check the dampers, springs and threaded areas for signs of wear or corrosion.
• Common problems: Look for unusual noises or changes in driving behavior that could indicate problems.

Care during the winter months

Regular care is also important during the winter:

• Cleaning after driving in snow: Wash the chassis thoroughly after every drive through snow or on salty roads.
• Handling salt: Remove salt residue as quickly as possible to prevent corrosion.

Adjusting settings for winter

Adjust the settings of your coilover suspension to the winter road conditions:

• Chassis height: Increase the chassis height to provide more ground clearance and prevent damage from snow and ice.
• Damping settings: Adjust the damping so that the chassis works optimally even in cold temperatures.

Maintenance after winter

After the winter, a thorough inspection and cleaning is necessary:

• Spring inspection: Check all parts for winter residue and damage.
• Removing winter residue: Clean the undercarriage thoroughly to remove salt and dirt residue.

Recommended products and tools

Use high-quality products and tools to optimally maintain your coilover suspension:

• Corrosion inhibitors: Products such as WD-40 or special chassis protection agents.
• Cleaning agents: Mild cleaning agents that do not attack metal parts.
• Tools: A spring compressor, torque wrench and special brushes for cleaning.

Tips from experts

Experts have some tried and tested tips for caring for your coilover suspension in winter:

• Regular care: Don’t neglect your care, but make it a routine.
• Expert help: Don’t be afraid to consult a specialist if you are unsure.
• Avoid common mistakes: Make sure you do not use aggressive cleaning agents and do not set the suspension too low.

FAQ about coilovers in winter

How often should I clean my coilovers in winter? Ideally, after every drive on salty or snowy roads.

Which corrosion inhibitor is best? Products like WD-40 or special corrosion protection sprays for chassis are very effective.

Should I adjust the ride height in winter? Yes, raising the ride height can help prevent damage from snow and ice.

How do I recognize corrosion on the chassis? Look for rust spots, discolored areas, and unusual noises.

Can I service my coilover suspension myself? Yes, with the right tools and some technical knowledge, it's possible. However, if you're unsure, it's advisable to consult a specialist.

Do I have to avoid the racetrack in winter? Not necessarily, but make sure your suspension is well maintained and adjusted to the conditions.

conclusion

Winter presents unique challenges for your coilover suspension. However, with proper maintenance and care, you can ensure that it maintains optimal performance even in cold, snow, and salt. Follow the tips presented here, and your suspension will continue to serve you well during the winter months.