Shocks, struts, and other suspension parts make your car's ride smoother, help you with handling, and keeping the car stable. Generally, your car is designed to handle a certain way right out of the factory and you usually don't need to do any modifications to it. However, if you have unusual handling conditions, or if you want a tighter, more sporty ride and handling, then you might want to look into upgrades. Here are three things you could do to your car to improve stability and handling.

Stabilizer bars:

These are also known as sway bars or anti-roll bars. Most passenger cars don't need them, as they are not necessary for regular all-round driving. Some trucks and SUVs have them as standard equipment due to their unique weight distribution and their potential for roll over. If your driving conditions are such that you are doing a lot of hairpin turns, then you might want to consider installing a stabilizer bar. One of the drawbacks is that if you hit a bump with the wheel on one side, it could lift the opposite wheel because the stabilizer bar's main function to to keep both wheels at the same height.

Upgraded shock absorbers:

Most cars could benefit from upgraded shock absorbers, though the original equipment on most passenger vehicles is pretty durable and good quality. However, if you're someone that carries a lot of heavy items or people in your car or truck, then upgrading to gas or heavy-duty shocks isn't a bad idea. These shocks are also good if you drive a lot of bumpy roads. If you have an air compressor, you can use air shocks, which are adjustable based on your predicted load and driving conditions. Be aware that changing your shocks to something more aggressive may affect the stiffness of your ride and handling.

Lowering the car:

Many performance car enthusiasts swear that lowering your car will greatly improve its handling. Lowering changes the center of gravity and makes it easier to grip the road. Some people also like the look of a lowered car. However, lowered cars aren't for everyone, and they're not for every car. With a lowered car, you increase the chance of bottoming out and the risk of possible damage to other components under the car. It's also not ideal if you drive on bumpy roads, and if you break down, it may be hard to jack your car up or have it towed.

It is possible to improve the handling of your vehicle with upgraded parts. It just depends on how much money and time you want to spend on the project. Even if you don't upgrade the actual parts, keeping your original equipment in good shape and replacing worn parts when necessary will keep you on the road. If you're thinking of upgrading your suspension, or if you just want parts to repair your existing one, then contact an auto parts salesperson in your area.

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