Ever looked at your Subaru Outback and thought, "Man, I wish it sat a little lower?" You're not alone! Many Outback owners explore lowering their vehicles, either for aesthetic reasons, improved handling, or both. Lowering your Subaru Outback can dramatically change its look and performance, making it feel more sporty and connected to the road. This guide will walk you through the options, benefits, and considerations, making sure you're equipped to make the right choice for your ride. Let's dive in and explore the world of Outback lowering! Thinking about improving your car's handling and stance? This guide covers various Subaru Outback lowering options, helping you choose the perfect setup for your needs. We'll explore everything from springs to coilovers, addressing common concerns like ride quality and cost.
All About Lowering a Subaru Outback
Lowering a vehicle, quite simply, means reducing the distance between the chassis and the ground. This is usually achieved by modifying the suspension components. For a Subaru Outback, which is known for its higher ground clearance and off-road capability, lowering it presents an interesting modification. While it sacrifices some of that off-road prowess, it can significantly improveon-road handling, reduce body roll during cornering, and give the vehicle a more aggressive, sporty appearance. Lowering the center of gravity contributes to better stability and responsiveness, making the car feel more planted, especially during spirited driving. The significance lies in transforming a vehicle designed for versatility into one optimized for road performance.
Historically, lowering vehicles has been a staple of automotive customization. Early hot-rodders and racers understood the aerodynamic and handling advantages of a lower ride height. While originally focused on enhancing performance, the aesthetic appeal quickly became a primary motivator. Over time, the technology has evolved from simple hacks like cutting springs (which ishighly discourageddue to safety concerns) to sophisticated suspension systems like coilover kits. These modern systems offer adjustability and control, allowing enthusiasts to tailor the ride height and damping characteristics to their specific preferences.
One of the unique features of lowering an Outback, compared to a sports car, is the starting point. The Outback already sits relatively high, so even a modest drop can make a noticeable difference. The key is to choose the right method and components that complement the vehicle's existing characteristics. Unlike many sports cars which prioritize track performance, the Outback may still require a degree of comfort for daily driving, necessitating a balanced approach.Maintaining ride comfortis often a key concern for Outback owners considering this modification.
Many owners choose to lower their Subaru to improve its appearance. According to car enthusiasts online, lowering can give it a more sleek, modern appearance, particularly when paired with stylish wheels and tires. Some owners have mentioned that the change in ride height has made it easier to load items onto the roof, although that is typically a secondary consideration.
Benefits of Lowering a Subaru Outback for Users
Lowering your Outback enhances the driving experience in several ways. First and foremost, it improves handling. By reducing body roll and lowering the center of gravity, the car feels more stable and responsive in corners. This translates to increased confidence and enjoyment behind the wheel, especially on winding roads. Another benefit is the improved aesthetics. Lowering the car eliminates the unsightly gap between the tires and the wheel wells, giving it a more aggressive and visually appealing stance. This personalized touch makes the vehicle stand out from the crowd.
For example, imagine driving your Outback on a twisty mountain road before and after lowering. Before, you might experience significant body roll and a feeling of being disconnected from the road. After lowering, the car will feel more planted, allowing you to navigate the corners with greater precision and control. This improved handling translates to a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.
Compared to simply changing wheels or adding cosmetic modifications, lowering the suspension has a more profound impact on the overall driving experience. While new wheels can improve aesthetics, they don't fundamentally change how the car handles. Lowering, on the other hand, directly affects the car's performance and handling characteristics. Alternative technologies like air suspension offer adjustable ride height but are often more complex and expensive than lowering springs or coilovers. Air suspension also introduces additional components and potential maintenance points.
Data from independent testing often shows that lowering a vehicle can improve its skidpad performance and reduce lap times on a closed course. While these tests are typically conducted on sports cars, the same principles apply to any vehicle, including the Outback. The extent of the improvement will depend on the specific components used and the degree of lowering.
How to Lower a Subaru Outback
Lowering a Subaru Outback is a process that requires careful planning and execution. Here's a breakdown of the typical steps involved:
1. Research and Planning
Before you even touch a wrench, do your homework. Determine the desired ride height and choose the appropriate lowering method (springs or coilovers). Research different brands and models, paying attention to reviews and feedback from other Outback owners. Consider your budget and driving needs. Are you primarily concerned with aesthetics, or are you looking for a performance upgrade? Choose components that align with your goals. Also, consider if you want to maintain the same load capacity; some options reduce this.
2. Gather Tools and Materials
You'll need a comprehensive set of tools, including a jack, jack stands, a socket set, wrenches, spring compressors (if using lowering springs), and potentially a torque wrench. Ensure you have all the necessary hardware, such as new bolts or strut mounts. It's always a good idea to have penetrating oil on hand to loosen any stubborn bolts.
3. Disassemble the Existing Suspension
Safely lift the vehicle and secure it on jack stands. Remove the wheels. Carefully disconnect the brake lines, ABS sensors, and other components attached to the struts. Using the appropriate tools, remove the struts from the vehicle. If you're installing lowering springs, you'll need to use spring compressors to safely remove the old springs from the struts.Always use spring compressors safelyand according to the manufacturer's instructions.
4. Install the New Suspension
If installing lowering springs, carefully install them onto the struts using the spring compressors. Ensure the springs are properly seated. If installing coilovers, simply bolt them into place using the provided hardware. Double-check all connections and ensure everything is properly tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.
5. Reassemble and Test
Reconnect the brake lines, ABS sensors, and other components. Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle to the ground. Torque the lug nuts to the proper specification. Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations. You may need to get a wheel alignment after lowering your vehicle.
Tips Before Lowering a Subaru Outback
Before you embark on this project, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. First, understand that lowering your Outback will affect its ride quality. It will likely be firmer and less forgiving on rough roads. Be prepared for this trade-off.
Second, consider the impact on ground clearance. Lowering the vehicle will reduce the amount of clearance you have, making it more susceptible to scraping on speed bumps or uneven terrain. Be mindful of this, especially if you frequently drive in areas with challenging road conditions.
Third, choose quality components from reputable manufacturers. Cheap lowering springs or coilovers may compromise safety and performance. Invest in quality parts that are designed specifically for your vehicle.
Ignoring these tips can lead to a number of problems, including a harsh ride, increased risk of damage to the undercarriage, and potential safety issues.
Common Issues and Solutions Related to Lowering a Subaru Outback
One common issue is that the lower the vehicle goes, the faster suspension components like ball joints and CV axles will wear out. Installing roll-center correction kits can help address these geometry issues, or simply maintaining a more moderate drop.
Another potential problem is that the rear self-leveling suspension on some Outback models may require modification or replacement to achieve the desired ride height. Research compatibility with your specific model year and trim.
If you experience a rough ride after lowering, try adjusting the damping settings on your coilovers (if equipped). You may also need to experiment with different tire pressures to find the optimal balance between comfort and handling.
Uneven tire wear is another common issue; a wheel alignment after lowering is crucial to correct camber and toe.
Conclusion
Lowering your Subaru Outback can be a rewarding modification that transforms its appearance and handling. By understanding the various options, benefits, and considerations, you can make an informed decision and achieve the desired results. Remember to prioritize safety and choose quality components.
With careful planning and execution, you can lower your Outback and enjoy a more sporty, responsive, and visually appealing vehicle. Don’t be afraid to research, ask questions, and seek professional assistance if needed. The result will be an Outback that not only looks great but also performs better on the road. Consider checking out online forums and communities dedicated to Subaru modifications for additional tips and insights from experienced owners. Now, go out there and transform your Outback!