Queensland police refer to these benefits as “excuses”, stating the real reason people lower their car is to make it look good.
What’s wrong with that?
Unfortunately for us cool people, we need to accept lowering our car will attract police attention, “random spot checks”, possible fines, or a possible dreaded trip over the pits.
In this article we’ll look at how low you can lower your car legally in Australia, which in general terms is 100mm from the ground.
Lowering your car – the 100mm Australian Design Rules rule
The 100mm clearance rule when lowering your Australian car is put in place by the Australian Design Rules (ADRs), most notably ADR 43.
But it’s not as simple as 100mm at a point you choose under your car, it is “any point in the width of the vehicle which is within one metre fore and aft of any axle“.
We will discuss good ways to check your lower car is compliant with the 100mm rule shortly, but wait, as unfortunately it gets a little more complicated.
The 50mm change in height rule
ADRs aside, you may also fall foul of the National Code of Practice for Light Vehicle Construction and Modifications (NCOP) regulations put in place by the Government department of Infrastructure.
These regs state the “total change in vehicle height resulting from all modifications performed, does not exceed 50mm”.
It’s unlikely you’ll break this legality with your Nissan Skyline, but if you’re lowering your 4×4 to look cool rather than practical then this rule is easily broken.
If you’re concerned about this rule, it is advisable to read the NCOP regulations themselves, specifically VSB 14, Section LS – Suspension and Steering.
What you should consider when lowering the ride height of your car
We mentioned earlier about police attention, and legal or not, lowering your car is like shining a spotlight in the vicinity of a herd of police moths*.
* Note: The correct term for a group of moths is an eclipse. We just felt a herd of police moths sounded funnier.
You may have done your due diligence to ensure your car is lowered legally, but often in Australia a police officer will give your car a good going over until they find fault. Once they’ve pulled you over, they want to make sure they’ve done their job – and that may mean they aren’t satisfied until they’ve found a problem.
In my experience, a random check such as this will involve being breathalised as well, and a potential drug test. I don’t drink and drive, and I’m too old to take drugs (except ibuprofen for headaches and lower back pain), but it’s frustrating nonetheless. Especially when you’re trying to get home to catch an explosive MAFS dinner party.
Once upon a time I was pulled over because the police officer “heard me speeding”. I kid you not – apparently this clever chump could hear motion. In truth I was bang on the limit, on a roundabout I knew very well, I just had an aftermarket exhaust (which was also compliant).
But get this – after 30 minutes of the police officer going over my car, plus comments about it being a “boy racer car” when it was a classic Honda CRX like the one Ayton Senna once owned, he followed me home to my cul-de-sac and complained about my girlfriend’s number plate being dirty.
Quite often a police officer will pull you over for a lowered car, but give you an infringement for something else. Be warned.
How to ensure your lowered car is compliant
Police officers use a tool called a measuring wheel to measure the ride height of your car.
You very likely won’t have a measuring wheel handy, so instead cut a block of wood to 100mm and use that to run under your car while on a flat service. This will give you a very good idea of whether your lowered car is legal.
References
- Queensland Government MyPolice – How low can you go?
Like any automotive component, coilovers require regular maintenance and proper care to ensure their longevity and optimal performance.
By following the tips and guidelines below, you can keep your coilovers in top shape, enhancing your driving experience and ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey on the road.
Essential tools
If you don’t have a C Spanner then this is an essential tool for adjusting your coilovers. I highly recommend the Tein Adjustable Wrench (available on Amazon AU). These are by far the best quality C Spanners you can buy, and you’ll thank me later.
Regular Inspection
Regular inspections of your coilover suspension are essential to identify any signs of wear, damage, or fluid leaks.
Pay close attention to the coil springs, shock absorbers, and all adjustable components.
Look for any oil leakage or signs of corrosion. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage and potential safety hazards.
Cleanliness
Keeping your coilovers clean is crucial for their performance and longevity.
Regularly wash your car and make sure to clean the coilovers as well.
Use a gentle cleaning solution and a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt, debris, or grime that may accumulate around the suspension components. You may need to jack up your car and remove the wheels for this, which I know is a faff, but is worth it.
Lubrication
Proper lubrication of moving parts is vital for the smooth operation of coilovers.
Check the manufacturer’s guidelines and lubricate adjustable components and joints as recommended.
Using the right type of lubricant ensures that the suspension operates without friction or unnecessary stress.
Adjustments
If your coilovers are adjustable, like OZ Racing coilovers, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when making changes to the settings.
Avoid making extreme adjustments without understanding the impact on your car’s handling.
It’s essential to strike a balance between performance and comfort to maintain stability and safety during driving.
Before making any adjustments to your coilover ride height, make sure you carefully wipe away any dirt and grit from the threads with a soft damp cloth and cleaning agent.
Avoid Harsh Impacts
While coilovers are designed to handle rough roads and spirited driving, it’s essential to avoid harsh impacts whenever possible.
Hitting large potholes, speed bumps, or road debris at high speeds can place excessive stress on the suspension components and lead to premature wear or damage.
Know your roads!
Regular Wheel Alignment
Proper wheel alignment is crucial for preserving the health of your coilovers.
Regularly schedule wheel alignment checks to ensure that your suspension is working optimally and that your tyres wear evenly.
Improper wheel alignment can lead to premature wear on the suspension and tires.
Camber adjusters may be necessary, especially if you significantly drop your car, as otherwise your tyres will wear far quicker on the inside.
Winter Care
If you live in an area with harsh winter conditions (like Melbourne ;o) ), take extra care of your coilover suspension during this time.
Salt, road grime, and ice can accelerate corrosion and wear. Consider using protective coatings or covers to shield the suspension components during the winter months.
Professional Servicing
While some maintenance tasks can be done by car enthusiasts, it’s essential to have your coilover suspension professionally serviced at regular intervals.
Certified mechanics can inspect, clean, and adjust your coilovers more thoroughly, ensuring their longevity and performance.
]]>I never looked back.
My car (a Honda CRX) was no way near as powerful as Skylines and Imprezas owned by other enthusiasts, but coilovers changed the car completely.
Can you imagine the look on the faces of those enthusiasts when they were outcornered by a Honda Civic?
As a car enthusiast, you may already know peak performance and handling is essential for an exhilarating driving experience. When it comes to suspension upgrades, OZ Racing coilovers have earned a stellar reputation and are highly regarded among enthusiasts like yourself.
I’m sure, if you’re like me, you’ll have your eye on various brands of coilovers for whatever reason (price, reputation), but for the purpose of this article you’re stuck with OZ Racing – sorry!
Why OZ Racing Coilovers?
OZ Racing is a name synonymous with high-performance wheels. Many don’t realise their dedication to excellence extends to their coilover offerings as well.
With a commitment to cutting-edge engineering, OZ Racing coilovers are designed to elevate (by de-elevating) your car’s handling and performance to new heights (and lows).
Whether you’re navigating city streets or conquering the track, OZ Racing coilovers are engineered to deliver superior results.
Pros of OZ Racing Coilovers
- Superior Handling – Experience razor-sharp cornering and enhanced stability, allowing you to push your car to its limits with confidence.
- Customization – With a variety of adjustable settings, OZ Racing coilovers enable you to fine-tune your suspension to match your driving style and preferences.
- Durability – OZ Racing’s dedication to quality ensures that their coilovers are built to withstand the rigors of spirited driving and challenging road conditions.
- Versatility – OZ Racing coilovers strike an ideal balance between performance and comfort, making them suitable for both daily driving and track use.
Cons of OZ Racing Coilovers
- Price – As a premium suspension upgrade, OZ Racing coilovers might have a higher upfront cost compared to entry-level options. However, the performance gains are well worth the investment (in my honest opinion).
- Firm Ride – To achieve optimal performance, OZ Racing coilovers may provide a slightly firmer ride than your car’s stock suspension or aftermarket shocks and spring. This is by design, but many unfamiliar with coilover suspension find this hard to get used to.
- Installation Complexity – Proper installation of coilovers requires technical expertise, and professional assistance is recommended for optimal results. You may be able to tackle installation yourself (I did), but to get the most from your coilovers it’s well worth getting them professionally set up and balanced.
OZ Racing vs. Other Leading Coilover Brands
When comparing OZ Racing coilovers to other leading brands available in the Australian market, OZ Racing continues to stand out.
Its exceptional handling, track performance, and versatility make it a top choice for discerning enthusiasts like yourself.
Availability of coilovers is always a factor, especially in Australia. Leading brands for the Japanese Domestic Market, such as Tein, can often only be sourced from Japan, at great cost inclusive of shipping, and also when in need of repair.
However, remember that the right coilover choice depends on your specific driving needs and preferences.
OZ Racing Coilover Applications for Australian Car Models
From the iconic Subaru WRX and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution to the agile Toyota AE86/Subaru BRZ, Mazda MX-5, and powerful Nissan 370Z, OZ Racing coilovers have proven to be a game-changer.
Enthusiasts like you have reported significant enhancements in handling precision and overall driving experience after installing OZ Racing coilovers.
]]>