LEXUS NX coil spring rear and front

The spacers improve the damping characteristics of spring and help to increase the ground clearance or return it to the original value. These components are especially useful for commercial vehicles often carrying heavy cargo and for off-roaders operating on rough terrain. By material these parts can be:

• Rubber. These are the cheapest but the least durable.
• Polyurethane. These are durable, elastic, and resistant to impacts and deformations.
• Plastic. Such parts are corrosion-resistant, affordable and long-lasting.
• Aluminium. These components are expensive. They withstand high loads and are usually installed on the front axle.

The main condition is that these components should be compatible with your vehicle. This information can be found in your car owner’s manual. Nowadays, the following types of springs are popular:

• Conventional. They have the same parameters as the factory-installed parts. They are designed for use in moderate-load conditions.
• Reinforced. These are characterised by increased stiffness and resistance to deformation. They are designed for vehicles that transport cargo. Also these springs are suitable for driving on poor-quality roads. They don’t provide a proper comfort level.
• With variable stiffness. Their elasticity changes depending on the load, which is perfect for both city and off-road driving.
• Lowering. They reduce the ride height, which positively affects vehicle performance, handling, and manoeuvrability.
• Increasing. They increase the ride height of the car. Usually these parts are installed on off-road vehicles and help to improve their geometric parameters that determine a car's ability to negotiate obstacles.

DIY replacement of the components is only possible if you have corresponding skills and equipment. Apart from hand tools, such as ring and open-end spanners, drive sockets, a lug wrench for wheel bolts, a hammer and pliers, you will need a car lift and a spring compressor tool.

Before you start any work, learn the replacement procedure: it can be different depending on a car make, model and version. You should also check the car manufacturer’s safety precautions. It is essential, as if a compressed spring suddenly releases, it can cause injuries or damage the car.

To replace a spring mounted on a suspension strut, follow these steps:

• Access the upper fasteners of the unit. This may require removal of the engine compartment seal.
• Remove the upper fastener of the mount.
• Lift up the car.
• Unscrew fasteners and detach the suspension strut from the arm or a steering knuckle.
• Compress the component with a special tool, carefully remove it from the suspension strut.
• Compress a new part and install it on the suspension strut.
• Mount the strut assembly and all the removed components.
• Align the wheels.