Jackson Reid
There are several ways to lower a Mk5 Golf. One popular method is to use lowering springs, such as H&R Super Sport springs, which can provide a significant drop in ride height without sacrificing comfort or usability. Another option is to use coilovers, which offer height adjustability and can be a more cost-effective solution than springs and shocks. When lowering a Mk5 Golf, it is important to consider factors such as wheel size, tyre size, camber, and offset to avoid issues such as rubbing on the drive shafts, anti-roll bars, or tyre arches. It is also recommended to invest in a decent set of shocks, such as Bilstein B4 or VW racing shocks, to match the lowering springs for optimal performance and comfort.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Springs | H&R, Bilstein B14, Eibach, JOM, Raceland, VW racing |
| Shocks | VW racing, Bilstein B4, Sachs, Racing Line, Koni FSD, OEM, JOM, Blueline JOM |
| Coilovers | Raceland, AP, JOM, Blueline JOM, H&R Ultra Low, Koni, entry-level, mid-range |
| Tyre size | 18" x 8", 17" x 8", 17" x 9" |
| Tyre brand | BBS CH, RS, ET35-40, RS4 replicas |
| Tyre profile | 235/40/18, 215/45, 225/40/18, 225/45 |
| Spacers | 20mm rear, 15mm front, 10mm front |
| Camber | Standard setting |
| Drop | 10-15mm, 25mm, 30-35mm, 40mm, 45mm, 50mm, 55mm, 60mm, 65mm |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Lowering springs and shocks
H&R springs are a popular choice for MK5 Golf owners, offering a range of options such as the Super Sport and Ultra Low Coilovers. These springs provide a significant drop in ride height, enhancing the stance and aesthetics of the vehicle. Additionally, H&R springs are known for their comfort, ensuring a smooth ride even after lowering your car.
When it comes to shocks, there are a few options to consider. Bilstein shocks, such as the B4 or B14 models, are often recommended for their compatibility with lowered springs. They offer improved handling and ride quality. Another option is the VW Racing Shocks, which provide a more modest drop of 10-15mm. If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Koni FSD shocks can be a good choice, but keep in mind that they may require additional modifications for a lower ride height.
It's important to note that lowering your vehicle too much can lead to issues such as rubbing against tyres, arches, or drive shafts. A safe range for lowering springs is generally considered to be around 30-40mm, but this can vary depending on wheel size, tyre size, and camber. It's always recommended to research and consult with professionals before making significant modifications to your vehicle.
By combining a set of H&R lowering springs with compatible shocks, such as Bilstein or VW Racing shocks, you can achieve the desired lowered stance for your MK5 Golf while maintaining a comfortable and reliable ride.
Golf MK2: Safe or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Coilovers
If you're looking to lower your MK5 Golf, one option is to install coilovers. Coilovers are a type of suspension that allows you to adjust the height of your vehicle, giving you the ability to lower it to your desired stance.
There are a few things to consider when choosing coilovers for your MK5 Golf. Firstly, you'll want to ensure that the coilovers are specifically designed for your vehicle model, as using incorrect parts can affect safety and performance. Some coilover kits, like the Raceland Volkswagen Golf GTI coilovers, are height-adjustable from 1 to 3 inches below stock height, giving you the ability to customise the stance of your vehicle.
It's important to note that installing coilovers may require the use of your factory upper mounts, and in some cases, wheel spacers may be necessary to achieve proper wheel and tyre clearance. The actual drop range will depend on factors such as vehicle age, other modifications, and wheel/tyre setup.
Overall, coilovers provide a great option for lowering your MK5 Golf, allowing you to achieve the desired stance while potentially enhancing performance and aesthetics.
Doug Ford's Golfing: A Hole-in-One or a Bogey?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Wheel arch gap
Lowering a car can reduce the wheel arch gap and give it a sportier look. However, it is important to be aware of potential issues such as wheel rubbing and a stiffer ride.
When lowering a MK5 Golf, one of the most popular methods is to use lowering springs. H&R Super Sport springs are a common choice, as they provide a good balance between ride height and comfort. These springs can reduce the wheel arch gap by up to 25mm, and when combined with spacers, can result in a flush look. Other options include Eibach pro springs and coilovers.
It is important to note that lowering a car beyond a certain point can cause the wheels to rub against the inside of the wheel arches, especially when turning. This can be mitigated by removing the inside arch liners or rolling the arches to create additional clearance. However, some owners prefer to avoid these modifications and instead use coilovers, which allow for greater adjustability and can provide a lower stance without the same risk of rubbing.
When considering how low to go, it is recommended to start with a conservative drop of around 30-35mm on springs, as this will provide a noticeable difference without compromising ride comfort or causing excessive rubbing. Some owners have gone as low as 40-65mm with coilovers, but this may require additional modifications and can affect the car's performance and comfort.
In addition to lowering springs, it is recommended to invest in a decent set of shocks, such as Bilstein B4 or VW racing shocks, to match the new ride height and ensure optimal performance and comfort. It is also important to consider the wheel offset, tyre size, and camber when lowering a car, as these factors can impact the amount of clearance between the wheels and the wheel arches.
Pull-ups: The Ultimate Golf Muscle Builder?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Tyre size and wheel camber
When it comes to lowering a Mk5 Golf, there are a few things to consider regarding tyre size and wheel camber. Firstly, the choice of tyres and wheels can impact the amount of lowering that can be achieved without encountering issues such as rubbing. For example, one user with 18" wheels, 235/40/18 tyres, and ET35 settings reported no issues with a -40mm drop. Another user with 17" wheels and 215/45 tyres experienced some rubbing with a similar setup. Therefore, it's important to choose the right combination of wheel size, tyre size, and camber settings to achieve the desired lowering without compromising functionality or performance.
In terms of wheel camber, adjusting the camber can be done through the eccentric bolts on the upper and lower transverse links, which can impact both camber and toe settings. Some users have reported issues with shops not adjusting the rear camber during alignments, which can affect tyre wear and handling. It is recommended to find a shop willing to perform a custom alignment to ensure optimal settings for your specific setup.
Additionally, when lowering a Mk5 Golf, it's important to consider the wheel offset. A smaller offset will result in a more "tucked" look, while a larger offset will give a "hella flush" appearance. The choice of offset will depend on the desired style and wheel availability.
When lowering the vehicle, it's recommended to stick with an 18" wheel size if the lowering range is between 1" to 1.5". This ensures sufficient clearance and avoids potential rubbing issues. However, some users have reported success with larger wheels, such as 19" or even 20", but it's important to consider the available space, especially when upgrading the brake system.
Lastly, it's worth noting that lowering springs can impact tyre wear. Some users have reported that lowering springs added rear camber and toe, which can affect tyre wear patterns. It is important to monitor tyre wear and consider adjustments to camber and toe settings to optimise performance and prolong tyre life.
Kamala Harris: Golf Enthusiast or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Comfort vs ride height
Lowering your car can improve its aesthetics and performance. However, it is important to consider the trade-off between ride height and comfort. While lowering your car can enhance its handling and stability, it may also result in a rougher ride and reduced ground clearance.
When lowering a Mk5 Golf, there are several options available, each with its own advantages and considerations regarding comfort and ride height. One popular method is to install lowering springs, such as H&R springs, which offer a good balance between comfort and ride height reduction. These springs can lower the car by approximately 25mm to 35mm, providing a noticeable difference in stance and appearance. However, it is important to note that lowering the car too much can lead to rubbing issues with the wheels, tyres, and suspension components.
Another option is to combine lowering springs with aftermarket shocks, such as VW racing shocks or Bilstein B4 shocks. This setup can provide a more comfortable ride while lowering the car to the desired height. It is recommended to invest in a matched set of springs and shocks to ensure optimal performance and comfort.
Coilovers are also a popular choice for lowering a Mk5 Golf. They offer height adjustability, allowing you to fine-tune the ride height to your desired level. However, it is important to choose quality coilovers as cheaper options may not provide the desired comfort and performance. Some users have reported positive experiences with JOM coilovers and Bilstein B14 coilovers, which offer height and damping adjustability.
When considering ride height, it is important to keep in mind the potential impact on comfort and practicality. Lowering the car too much can result in reduced ground clearance, making it difficult to drive over speed bumps or uneven surfaces. Additionally, it is crucial to consider the size of your wheels and tyres, as well as the wheel offset, to ensure that they fit properly within the wheel arches and do not rub against other components.
In conclusion, when lowering a Mk5 Golf, it is essential to strike a balance between ride height and comfort. While lowering the car can enhance its appearance and performance, it should be done carefully to avoid compromising everyday practicality and ride quality. By choosing the right combination of springs, shocks, and coilovers, you can achieve the desired ride height while maintaining a comfortable and reliable driving experience.
What Does 'Slant' Mean in Golf?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
It depends on the wheels, size, tyres, ET, and camber. The lowest recommended drop is 35mm, but some users have lowered their MK5 Golfs by 40mm or more.
There are a few methods to lower your MK5 Golf, including using lowering springs or coilovers. Lowering springs are cheaper and can provide a good ride height and comfort, but coilovers offer more adjustability and may be better for performance. Some recommended products include H&R lowering springs and VW Racing shocks, or JOM coilovers.
Some common issues include rubbing on the inside arch, tyres, or arches. To avoid these issues, you may need to adjust the camber, use spacers, or remove the inside arch liners. It is also important to consider the quality of the coilovers or shocks, as cheaper options may not perform as well.
The process for lowering a MK5 Golf will depend on the specific method and products used. If you are using lowering springs, you will need to remove the old springs and shocks and replace them with the new ones. If you are using coilovers, you may need to adjust the height of the car by winding the coilovers up or down. It is recommended to seek professional help if you are unsure about the process.
