Upgrade Your Mitsubishi Eclipse Suspension

The Mitsubishi Eclipse, a nameplate synonymous with sporty driving and customisation, offers a fantastic platform for performance enhancement. If you're looking to elevate your driving experience, one of the most impactful areas to focus on is the suspension system. Upgrading your Eclipse's suspension isn't just about aesthetics; it's about unlocking its full potential for sharper handling, improved stability, and a more engaging drive. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to automotive tuning, understanding the options available can make a significant difference.

Why Upgrade Your Mitsubishi Eclipse Suspension?

The factory suspension on any car is designed to be a compromise, balancing comfort, cost, and a generally acceptable level of performance for the average driver. However, for those seeking a more dynamic and responsive driving feel, the stock setup often leaves room for improvement. Upgrading your Mitsubishi Eclipse's suspension can:

• Enhance Handling: Sharper turn-in, reduced body roll, and improved grip in corners.
• Boost Stability: Greater control at higher speeds and during braking.
• Improve Responsiveness: A more connected feel to the road.
• Accommodate Power Increases: Properly support the demands of engine modifications like turbo kits or superchargers.
• Personalise Ride Height: Achieve a desired stance or clear obstacles.

Key Suspension Components for Your Eclipse

The suspension system is a complex network of parts working in harmony. When considering upgrades, it's helpful to understand the role of each key component:

Springs

Springs support the weight of the vehicle and absorb road imperfections. Upgraded springs, often referred to as performance springs or lowering springs, typically have a higher spring rate. This means they are stiffer and resist compression more, leading to less body roll and a firmer ride. They can also lower the vehicle's centre of gravity, further improving handling.

Shock Absorbers (Dampers)

Shocks work in conjunction with springs to control the oscillation of the suspension. Performance shocks are designed to work with stiffer springs, providing more controlled damping. This prevents excessive bouncing and keeps the tyres in contact with the road for optimal grip. Options range from upgraded factory-style replacements to adjustable coilovers.

Anti-Roll Bars (Sway Bars)

These bars connect the suspension on opposite sides of the car, reducing body roll during cornering. Upgrading to thicker, stiffer anti-roll bars is a highly effective way to improve cornering stability and reduce the tendency for the car to lean. This is a particularly popular upgrade for performance-oriented Eclipses.

Bushings

Suspension bushings are typically made of rubber from the factory. Replacing these with stiffer polyurethane or even solid bushings can significantly reduce unwanted flex and movement in the suspension components. This results in a more precise and direct feel, though it can also introduce more noise and vibration into the cabin.

Struts

For front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive Eclipses with MacPherson strut suspension, upgrading the struts themselves is crucial. Performance struts are designed to handle the increased forces and demands placed upon them by stiffer springs and more aggressive driving.

Control Arms

While less common for initial upgrades, adjustable control arms can be used to fine-tune suspension geometry, such as camber and caster, especially after lowering the vehicle or when aiming for a specific performance setup.

Popular Suspension Upgrade Paths

The journey to an optimised suspension can be approached in various ways, depending on your goals and budget:

Entry-Level Upgrades

For those starting out, focusing on individual components can yield noticeable improvements:

• Performance Springs: A straightforward way to lower the car and reduce body roll.
• Uprated Anti-Roll Bars: A cost-effective method to enhance cornering.
• Performance Shocks/Struts: To better complement upgraded springs and improve damping.

Intermediate Upgrades

Combining several components offers a more comprehensive enhancement:

• Performance Springs and Shocks Package: Often sold as matched sets for optimal performance.
• Full Bushing Kit: Replacing all rubber bushings with polyurethane for a tighter feel.

Advanced Upgrades (Coilovers)

Coilovers are integrated units that combine a spring and shock absorber, often with adjustable damping and ride height. They offer the most flexibility for tuning suspension performance and appearance. For serious performance tuning, coilovers are a popular choice, allowing for precise adjustments to suit track days or spirited road driving.

Balancing Power and Chassis

As the provided information highlights, any significant increase in engine power should ideally be complemented by chassis and suspension upgrades. A more powerful engine puts greater stress on the suspension components, especially during acceleration, braking, and cornering. If your Eclipse has a turbo kit or supercharger, ensuring your suspension can handle the extra forces is paramount for both performance and safety. A well-balanced car feels predictable and controllable, allowing you to confidently utilise the added power.

Choosing the Right Parts for Your Mitsubishi Eclipse

The availability of performance parts can sometimes depend on the specific trim level and year of your Mitsubishi Eclipse. It's crucial to identify your vehicle's year and generation to ensure compatibility. Many reputable manufacturers offer parts specifically designed for various Eclipse models. Researching brands known for quality and performance is a wise step.

Table: Common Suspension Upgrades and Their Effects

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I install suspension parts on my Mitsubishi Eclipse?

A1: Absolutely! The Mitsubishi Eclipse is a popular car for performance modifications, and there is a wide range of suspension parts available to enhance its handling and performance. The specific parts available may vary depending on your Eclipse's year and trim level.

Q2: Will upgrading my suspension make the ride too harsh?

A2: It depends on the type of upgrade. While stiffer springs and performance shocks will firm up the ride compared to stock, many modern performance suspension kits are designed to offer a good balance between sharp handling and acceptable daily comfort. Adjustable coilovers allow you to fine-tune the damping to your preference.

Q3: How do suspension upgrades affect handling?

A3: Suspension upgrades primarily aim to reduce body roll during cornering, improve tyre grip, and enhance steering response. This leads to a car that feels more planted, agile, and predictable when driven enthusiastically.

Q4: Should I upgrade suspension if I'm adding engine power?

A4: Yes, it's highly recommended. Increased engine power puts more strain on the chassis and suspension. Upgrades ensure your suspension can cope with the extra forces, maintaining stability and control, and preventing potential damage to stock components.

Q5: Where can I find performance suspension parts for my Mitsubishi Eclipse?

A5: You can find parts from various online retailers specialising in automotive performance parts, as well as from dedicated tuning shops. It's essential to confirm the compatibility with your specific Mitsubishi Eclipse year and model before purchasing.

In conclusion, adding suspension parts to your Mitsubishi Eclipse is a rewarding modification that can dramatically improve its driving dynamics. By understanding the available components and considering your specific goals, you can tailor your Eclipse's suspension to achieve the perfect balance of performance, handling, and style.

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