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What Advantages Do Aftermarket Suspension Components Offer?

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When an auto manufacturer releases a new model, it’s usually designed to please as many different drivers as possible. Factory models are designed for efficiency and on-road performance, meeting the needs of most consumers. Yet, you may decide that your factory model could use a few improvements. Buying aftermarket suspension components can help you modify your truck, car, or Jeep so that it meets your individual needs.

If you plan on turning your vehicle into an off-road truck or Jeep, you’ll need these components to make sure your vehicle can handle different kinds of terrain like mud, dirt, and snow. The DIY automotive aftermarket industry is booming, as sales continue to go up year after year. Learn more about the benefits of buying aftermarket suspension components.

Bigger Tires for More Traction and Stability

Making room for larger tires is one of the best reasons to invest in aftermarket suspension components. Aftermarket leveling or lift kits make it easy to raise the suspension of your vehicle, giving you extra space for larger tires; otherwise, going to larger tires is not recommend without a lift or leveling kit due to the potential of rubbing against the vehicle. Once you raise the suspension, you can start shopping for the right tires for your vehicle.

Mud and snow tires give you more traction when you’re driving over unpaved surfaces. They come with reinforced rubber for more off-road durability, protecting your tires against the elements. But, at the end of the day, larger tires give you more stability on and off the road. They’re usually wider, with more aggressive, thicker tread pattern, helping you stay in control of your vehicle at all times.

It’s all about customizing your ride based on your personal preferences.

Shock Absorbers for Better Handling

Another must-have aftermarket upgrade for many drivers, new shock absorbers will help you handle your vehicle with ease on and off the road. Factory shock absorbers tend to be set up for stock ride height which can become a problem when taking your Jeep in an off-road environment. But aftermarket shock absorbers give you more leeway when cruising over rocks, tree roots, and large piles of dirt.

If you plan on going off-road, look for high-quality aftermarket shock absorbers. They’re designed to tackle all kinds of terrain, so you don’t have to worry about losing control of your vehicle. Aftermarket lift kits often include shock absorbers, so you can get everything you need from one kit or package.

Sway Bars for Better Steering and Handling

If you like to drive fast or go off-road with your vehicle, you might notice your ride has a bit of sway from one side to the other.

That’s why it’s a good idea to install a thick set of sway bars on both the front and back of your truck or Jeep. These handy metal bars reduce the chances of your vehicle leaning to one side when turning, giving you more peace of mind when you’re speeding down the highway or making tight turns on the side of a hill. It’s a good idea to match the front and rear sway bars, which will reduce oversteering and understeering.

Soft Springs for Traversing Rough Terrain

When you buy an aftermarket lift kit, there’s a good chance you’ll also receive a new set of springs. Lifting the suspension of your vehicle usually requires new shocks and springs. If your kit doesn’t include new springs or you want to pick out your own, choose rigid springs for better handling when you’re cruising down the highway. Rigid springs are perfect for paved surfaces and high speeds.

But, if you prefer going off-road, choose a spring intended for off-road like a dual rate coil spring. This type of coil springs is intended for both on-road and off-road use. They provide a smoother ride during the on-road performance and more extension in off-road performance. These will help you navigate the wilderness with ease. When you’re crawling over rocks and steep inclines, it’s best to have springs that roll with the punches. If your springs are too rigid, your off-road truck or Jeep may not be up to the challenge at hand.

Coilover Shock Kits for Better On-Road and Off-Road Performance

You can also invest in a replacement coilover shock kit which will protect some of your front or rear suspension pieces depending on your vehicle application. The term “coilover” means a shock absorber wrapped in a coil spring, so both components work together simultaneously. Factory coilovers are pretty standard with today’s OEM suspension packages which can be easily replaced with a more performance-based replacement coilover suspension shock set up.

Performance coilover kits improve handling at high speeds and the overall ride quality, so you’ll feel comfortable behind the wheel. Most of these kits come with adjustable dials that let you quickly adjust the settings, so you can handle your off-road truck or Jeep just the way you like it.

To Sum Up

Today, drivers are keeping their cars longer than in years past, which means more drivers are investing in aftermarket parts. In fact, the industry is expected to reach $722.8 billion by 2020. Aftermarket parts allow you to customize your vehicle just the way you want it. Many of these parts and accessories are affordable, and you can typically install them yourself, but there are plenty of dealers willing to help if you need it. If you’re going to buy a new vehicle, you might as well tailor it to your liking. Invest in some of these upgrades today to make the most of your new ride.

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Tim Esterdahl

Automotive Journalist Tim Esterdahl has been a lover of trucks and SUVs for years. He has covered the industry since 2011 and has pieces in many national magazines and newspapers. In his spare time, he is often found tinkering on his '62 C10 pickup, playing golf, going hunting and hanging out with his wife and kids in Nebraska.

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