Difference Between Coilovers & Springs

Car suspensions include the springs and the shock absorbers. Springs are one part of the suspension, while the shock absorbers are another. Coilovers, however, are a combination of both and are present in most modern cars.

Springs

The springs in your suspension give your car some flexibility on the road. This is important, as the smallest bump will be felt at 60 miles per hour. The springs reduce some of the shock by letting the car move into the road's bumps.

Shock Absorbers

Shock absorbers are hydraulic pieces of equipment that work with the springs to keep your ride smooth and your car from falling to pieces. They do this by absorbing the shock of the road from the spring into a slower-moving hydraulic piston; this puts two layers between the surface of the car and the shock of the road.

Coilovers

A coilover is just a shock absorber with the spring coiled around it. This makes your suspension more space-efficient by combining the two parts into one piece of equipment. This means that all coilovers have springs -- but not all springs are on coilovers.

References

• Car Bibles: Suspension Bible