Key Summary
- Upgrading your 4×4’s suspension improves off-road capability, ride comfort, and towing stability.
- Key suspension upgrades include lift kits, shocks, springs, and sway bars.
- The right setup depends on whether you prioritise performance (off-road handling & durability) or comfort (smooth ride & stability).
- Core Diesel provides expert suspension upgrades tailored to your driving needs.
Why Upgrade Your 4×4’s Suspension?
A factory suspension is designed for general driving, not for extreme off-roading, heavy towing, or long-distance touring. If you want to improve handling, durability, and ride quality, upgrading your 4×4’s suspension is a must.
✅ Off-Roading: More ground clearance, better articulation, and improved shock absorption.
✅ Towing & Load Carrying: Stronger springs and shocks for stability and control.
✅ Daily Driving Comfort: A smoother ride with upgraded dampers and bushings.
Before upgrading, it’s important to decide whether you prioritise performance or comfort—or if you want a balance of both.
Performance vs Comfort: Which Suspension Setup is Right for You?
🔥 Performance-Focused Suspension (Off-Road & Heavy-Duty Use)
If you push your 4×4 to the limits with rock crawling, deep mud, or high-speed desert driving, performance upgrades focus on strength, durability, and ground clearance.
🚛 Recommended Upgrades:
✅ Heavy-duty shocks – Handles rough terrain and absorbs big impacts.
✅ Lift kits – Raises ground clearance for better off-road capability.
✅ Reinforced control arms & bushings – Reduces wear under extreme conditions.
✅ Long-travel suspension kits – Allows better wheel articulation over obstacles.
🏕 Comfort-Focused Suspension (Touring & Everyday Driving)
For 4×4 owners who prioritise a smooth ride over rough terrain, comfort upgrades improve shock absorption, stability, and vibration damping.
🚗 Recommended Upgrades:
✅ Premium shocks & struts – Absorbs bumps for a smoother ride.
✅ Soft coil springs – Provides better ride comfort on highways and dirt roads.
✅ Upgraded sway bars – Reduces body roll for better handling.
✅ Polyurethane bushings – Reduces road noise and vibration.
If you tow frequently, a hybrid setup that balances both performance and comfort may be the best option.
The Best Suspension Upgrades for 4x4s
🔼 1. Lift Kits – More Ground Clearance for Off-Roading
Lift kits increase ground clearance and allow for larger tyres, improving off-road capability. There are two main types:
- Body lifts – Raise the body of the vehicle without affecting suspension travel.
- Suspension lifts – Increase wheel travel for better off-road handling.
🛠 Best for: Serious off-roaders who need extra clearance for rugged terrain.
🔧 2. Shocks & Struts – Improved Damping for Performance or Comfort
Shocks control how your suspension compresses and rebounds, affecting ride quality. Upgrading to gas-charged or remote-reservoir shocks improves:
- Off-road handling by reducing shock fade.
- Ride comfort by smoothing out bumps and vibrations.
🛠 Best for: Both off-road enthusiasts and daily drivers who want better handling.
🏋️♂️ 3. Coil & Leaf Springs – Choosing the Right Springs for Load Support
Springs affect ride height, weight distribution, and suspension travel.
- Coil springs – Provide a comfortable ride and are great for touring setups.
- Leaf springs – Ideal for heavy loads and towing, offering durability and support.
🛠 Best for: 4×4 owners who tow heavy loads or want to adjust ride comfort.
🔩 4. Sway Bars & Bushings – Better Handling & Stability
Sway bars and bushings improve vehicle stability and handling by reducing body roll.
- Upgraded sway bars improve cornering and stability at higher speeds.
- Polyurethane bushings last longer than rubber and provide a firmer ride.
🛠 Best for: 4×4 drivers who want a smoother, more controlled ride on highways and uneven terrain.
How to Choose the Right Suspension Setup
🔹 For Off-Road Performance:
- Suspension lift kit (2-4 inches)
- Remote-reservoir shocks
- Heavy-duty control arms
🔹 For Touring & Comfort:
- Softer coil springs
- Comfort-tuned shocks
- Upgraded sway bars
🔹 For Towing & Heavy Loads:
- Reinforced leaf springs
- Load-rated shocks
- Adjustable air suspension
Still unsure? Core Diesel can help you choose the perfect suspension setup for your needs.
Why Choose Core Diesel for 4×4 Suspension Upgrades?
At Core Diesel, we provide expert suspension upgrades designed for off-road enthusiasts, tourers, and work vehicles. Here’s why 4×4 owners trust us:
✅ Tailored suspension solutions – We customise upgrades based on your driving needs.
✅ High-quality brands & components – We use top-tier aftermarket parts.
✅ Expert installation – Professional fitting for maximum reliability.
✅ Off-road & towing expertise – We know what works for Australia’s toughest conditions.
Book a Suspension Upgrade Today
Looking for the best suspension setup for your 4×4? Core Diesel has you covered with expert advice and professional installation.
Upgrade your 4×4’s suspension with Core Diesel—because your adventures deserve the best.
FAQ
❓ How much lift should I get for my 4×4?
Most touring and daily driving setups work best with a 2-inch lift, while serious off-roaders may go for 3-4 inches.
❓ Will a suspension upgrade affect my vehicle’s warranty?
Some modifications may impact your warranty. We can help you choose upgrades that comply with regulations.
❓ How often should I service my suspension?
For off-road or towing setups, check suspension components every 10,000-20,000 km to ensure they are in good condition.
❓ Can I mix performance and comfort upgrades?
Yes! Many 4×4 owners opt for a balanced setup that enhances both off-road capability and ride comfort.
This guide is written by Core Diesel, Australia’s 4×4 suspension upgrade specialist, helping you get the perfect balance of performance and comfort. 🚙💨
