What Is a Coil Spring in a Car? Everything You Need to Know

Table of Contents

• What Is a Coil Spring in a Car?
• Functions of a Coil Spring
• Types of Coil Springs
• Coil Spring in Cars vs. Mattresses
• When and How to Replace Coil Springs
• How Much to Fix or Replace Coil Springs?
• How to Compress a Coil Spring (With/Without Tools)
• How to Remove Coil Springs (With/Without Compressor)
• How to Lower a Car Using Coil Springs
• Why Choose Coil Springs from Max Auto
• Contact Max Auto

What Is a Coil Spring in a Car?

A coil spring in a car is a spiral-shaped mechanical component made of elastic steel. It supports the vehicle’s
weight, absorbs road shock, and ensures that tires stay in contact with the road surface. In combination with a
shock absorber, it provides a smooth and stable ride.

Max Auto’s coil
springs are designed for optimal comfort and performance, made from premium materials like 60Si2Mn, 55CrSiA,
and SAE9254.

Functions of a Coil Spring

• Maintains vehicle height and alignment
• Absorbs and distributes road impact forces
• Enhances ride quality and driving safety
• Works with struts/shocks to stabilize the vehicle

Types of Coil Springs

Common types include:

• Constant-rate coil springs – Uniform resistance throughout compression.
• Progressive-rate springs – Resistance increases as compression deepens.
• Mini-block coil springs – Designed to reduce lateral shift during compression.

Max Auto manufactures all types, supporting both standard and coilover suspension applications.

Coil Spring in Cars vs. Mattresses

Though both involve coiled steel, their applications differ greatly. A coil spring mattress provides
sleeping support, while automotive coil springs handle dynamic load shifts and absorb movement during driving.

So while both are technically “coiled springs,” their engineering and durability standards are not comparable.

When and How to Replace Coil Springs

Symptoms that indicate worn or broken springs:

• Uneven ride height
• Noisy suspension when going over bumps
• Visible cracks or sagging in the spring

You may wonder: Can you replace one coil spring? Technically yes, but it is recommended to
replace in pairs to maintain balance.

See our guide on heavy-duty
coil spring performance for more information.

How Much to Fix or Replace Coil Springs?

How to Compress a Coil Spring (With/Without Tools)

A spring compressor tool is safest. However, if necessary and with extreme caution, use thick chain + car jack as a
workaround — only recommended for experienced mechanics. For safe handling, read our detailed
compressor guide: How to
Maintain Shock Absorber & Coilover.

How to Remove Coil Springs (With/Without Compressor)

1. Lift vehicle securely with jack stands
2. Remove wheel and disconnect lower shock mount
3. Use spring compressor to safely relieve tension
4. Pull out spring carefully

For cases without a compressor, explore low-tension setups only. Visit our coil brand
durability report.

How to Lower a Car Using Coil Springs

To lower ride height, install shortened performance coil springs or adjustable coilovers. Max Auto provides coil over springs
for enhanced comfort and control.

Make sure to adjust shock length accordingly to avoid over-compression.

Why Choose Coil Springs from Max Auto

Max Auto is a TS16949-certified factory with 30+ years of experience in spring production. We offer:

• Self-owned spring steel factory for cost control
• Precision-manufactured springs using 60Si2Mn, 55CrSiA, SAE9254
• Export to 20+ countries including USA, EU, Japan
• OEM & ODM service with full QC reports (PPAP, UT, MPI, etc.)

Check out our high-performance
shocker upgrade options.

Contact Max Auto

Company: Max Auto Parts Co., Ltd.
Address: Building No.2, Jinshan Road No.788, Jiangbei District, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
Email: sales@maxautoparts.cn
Phone: +86 15267273091
Website: https://www.nbmaxauto.com/
Hours: Mon – Fri: 9am – 6pm