How to Install Coilovers on an Infiniti G37x AWD (DIY Guide)
How to Install Coilovers on an Infiniti G37x AWD
Upgrading the suspension on an all-wheel-drive G37 doesn't have to be a nightmare if you follow the right steps. This guide will save you hundreds of dollars in shop labor and get your stance dialed in properly.
The Short Answer (TL;DR)
Installing coilovers on an Infiniti G37x takes a few hours with basic hand tools and a jack. You will remove the OEM front struts by pushing down the lower control arm, then swap the separate rear shock and spring assembly. Setting proper spring preload is crucial before finalizing the ride height.
The DIY Process Overview
We will start with the rear suspension since it is the easiest. Jack up the car and remove the rear wheels. Use an impact gun to remove the lower spring perch bolt, which gives you access to pull out the rear spring and rubber isolators. Next, remove the lower and upper strut bolts, pull the shock out, and swap the white top gasket over to your new coilover strut.
Reinstall the top portion of the strut first. Place the new rear coil springs in the bucket with the stock lower rubbers and the new top adjustable collar. Use a second floor jack under the spring bucket to raise the control arm, aligning the bolt holes to secure the lower shock mount.
Moving to the front, pop the hood and loosen the three upper strut mount bolts. Remove the front wheel, unbolt the brake line brackets, and pull the bolt connecting the bottom of the strut to the lower fork. Disconnect the fork from the lower control arm, and unbolt the upper A-arm to allow for maximum suspension droop.
Push down firmly on the front rotor assembly to force the lower control arm down. Be extremely careful not to overextend or tear the front CV axle boot. Once you have enough clearance, pull the factory front strut assembly out and install the new coilover, reversing the removal steps.
To finalize the setup, you must set the spring preload. Loosen the lock rings until the spring moves slightly. Tighten the spring seat ring until it is snug against the spring, which is zero preload. Thread the lower lock ring up to touch the seat ring, then tighten the upper seat ring another 5mm to compress the spring. Lock the rings in place.
Why You Should Upgrade While You're In There
Since you are already disassembling the suspension and raising the vehicle, this is the perfect time to address chassis rigidity or aging components. Installing upgraded sway bars or adjustable control arms will maximize the handling benefits of your new coilovers.
Recommended Upgrade: Adjustable Front Upper Control Arms (Camber Kit) to bring your alignment specs back into factory tolerances after a significant drop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a camber kit when lowering an AWD G37?
It depends on how low you drop the vehicle. A modest drop can often be aligned within factory specifications using the OEM eccentric bolts. If you max out the coilovers, you will need aftermarket front upper control arms and rear camber arms to prevent excessive inner tire wear.
How does the ride quality compare to the factory suspension?
Aftermarket coilovers are noticeably stiffer than stock, which drastically reduces body roll. Most reputable kits feature adjustable damping, allowing you to soften the compression settings for daily driving or stiffen them for spirited canyon runs.
Why is the mechanic quoting high labor times for this install?
Many shop manuals require the removal of front axles or sway bar end links to pull the front struts on an AWD model. By carefully pushing down the lower control arm as outlined above, you can bypass those steps. This drastically cuts down the real-world installation time.
