Softer Ride

[PVLFD]

I've got 2013 FRS and the suspension is extremely stiff for me, specially with shitty roads we have in Toronto.
What is the best solution to make the ride softer and comfortable?
I've looked around this forum but can't seem to find the answer I am looking for.
If I change the springs would that help or I need to get coilovers?
I'm not racing or anything like that, just city/highway driving.

Thanks!

[strat61caster]

How many miles on the car?

[weederr33]

You could try getting a pair of the newer 17 dampers and springs. Or if you're lucky get a hold of some of the performance package Sachs dampers too.

[Ultramaroon]

16" wheels shod with some comfy all-season radials.

[PVLFD]

Originally Posted by strat61caster

How many miles on the car?

Almost 83,000 KM

[PVLFD]

Originally Posted by weederr33

You could try getting a pair of the newer 17 dampers and springs. Or if you're lucky get a hold of some of the performance package Sachs dampers too.

2017 model? Will it fit the 13 model?

[PVLFD]

Originally Posted by Ultramaroon

16" wheels shod with some comfy all-season radials.

That would be much more than I want to spend and not sure it will look good
My budget is $300-400

[Ultramaroon]

Originally Posted by PVLFD

That would be much more than I want to spend and not sure it will look good
My budget is $300-400

You'll end up buying new tires anyhow. Even slightly wider size with softer sidewalls will make a huge difference. It's immediately noticeable.

Sidewalls on the Primacys are super stiff.

[weederr33]

Originally Posted by PVLFD

2017 model? Will it fit the 13 model?

I don't see why they wouldn't!

[PVLFD]

Originally Posted by weederr33

I don't see why they wouldn't!

My guess since it's OEM it will be expensive. Is there anything good aftermarket?

[weederr33]

Originally Posted by PVLFD

My guess since it's OEM it will be expensive. Is there anything good aftermarket?

You could try cheap coilovers. But I wouldn't do it.

[asdf]

You will not likely find something in your stated budget of $300-$400 to make this car more comfortable. The easiest way would be to sacrifice some performance for tires with a bigger/softer sidewall or go with something like the Chuhatsu lift springs, but I'm not sure if a lift in ride height is what you're particularly looking for.

Did you find the ride to be more comfortable when the car was new? If so, then maybe just looking for a lightly used/low milage set of OEM springs/dampers from a newer model year car will help get you back to a more comfortable ride.

[PVLFD]

Originally Posted by asdf

You will not likely find something in your stated budget of $300-$400 to make this car more comfortable. The easiest way would be to sacrifice some performance for tires with a bigger/softer sidewall or go with something like the Chuhatsu lift springs, but I'm not sure if a lift in ride height is what you're particularly looking for.

Did you find the ride to be more comfortable when the car was new? If so, then maybe just looking for a lightly used set of OEM springs/dampers will help get you back to more comfortable ride.

I bought the car used last year so not sure. I had an Infiniti G35 before and the ride was much softer even though it's a sporty car as well.
With this one I can feel every small pothole.

I've seen aftermarket springs, most of them are under $400. Does that make a difference in ride quality or shocks is what I need?

[asdf]

Originally Posted by PVLFD

I bought the car used last year so not sure. I had an Infiniti G35 before and the ride was much softer even though it's a sporty car as well.
With this one I can feel every small pothole.

I've seen aftermarket springs, most of them are under $400. Does that make a difference in ride quality or shocks is what I need?

Unfortunately, this car is not likely going to be quite as cushy no matter what you do-- higher end suspension setups will help to make the ride more manageable and handle better, but it is not likely that you will get a 'luxury car' kind of feel if that's what you're seeking.

There are a ton of aftermarket spring options out there if you want to lower the car, but since you're looking for some comfort, you won't find it there, especially pairing up with your OEM dampers... You may be surprised how much of a difference a softer tire will make.

If you're set on trying to change the suspension: If you have local meets, you can try to see if anybody that has a different suspension setup can give you a ride-along or let you test drive (maybe if you offer a 6pack or lunch or something). Or maybe you can stop by a local dealership to test drive a new stock 86/BRZ to see if finding a less worn set of OEM springs/shocks will do the trick. I will say, I very much doubt any aftermarket springs paired with your OEM dampers will net the result you seem to be looking for.

Good luck in your search!