This archive report was first published on 7 May 2020.
Raising Car Ground Clearance: Pros and Cons ¶
Increasing a car's ground clearance can be achieved through various methods, but it's essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
One common method is using spacers, which are locally fabricated metallic plates that can be fitted between the shock absorber mountings or springs and the vehicle chassis. However, this method is not recommended for most cars, including the Toyota Premio, as it may cause damage to the suspension and compromise safety.
According to experts, raising a car's ground clearance with spacers can lead to long-term damage to the suspension components, including the upper suspension, lower strut shaft, bushings, ball joints, and CV joints. This can result in a higher risk of accidents, especially when driving at high speeds on uneven roads or through sharp bends.
Instead of using spacers, car owners can consider other methods to increase ground clearance, such as using bigger tyres. This can be done by replacing the stock tyres with a larger size, such as 185/65 R14 or 195/65 R14, which can provide better ground clearance without compromising the car's handling and ride quality.
Another method is re-cambering the springs, which involves bending the leaf spring to a more acute angle to raise the ground clearance. However, this method is only suitable for older vehicles with a leaf spring suspension and can have a negative impact on the car's ride comfort and handling.
Other methods, such as adding extra leaf springs or a spring over axle setup, can also increase ground clearance but may require major modifications to the car's suspension system. These modifications can put pressure on the steering components and drive shafts, which can lead to further complications.
Ultimately, car owners should carefully consider the pros and cons of raising their car's ground clearance before making a decision. It's essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks and costs, and to consult with experts if necessary.
