I just got my 05 AM TL, about 3 months ago. I have been looking to get some stuff done to it. Such as aspec kit, lowering it, and tinting windows.

1. Is there a good shop around Norridge/Harwood Heights area that does work on Tls?

2. Where do you guys get your work done?

I know there are DIY videos on how to do the aspec kit, and other things, but I just don't have the time. I also don't want to waste anymore money at the dealer.

 

Tints @ Umbra in Schaumburg

Aspec kit @ easy DIY

Lowering @ depends which route you take (springs vs coilovers).

Welcome and congrats on the pick up.

 

Going to get Tein S Techs. Can't afford coilovers.

 

Then the install will be more involved. You'll need to rent a spring compressor OR have a shop do it.

 

You can give my buddy $100 and he'll do your suspension for you. As long as you have 4 jackstands becuz your car will need to be up in the air when he brings the struts to his work to get them compressed.
Also if you are getting the S.Techs then you might want to get struts/shocks made specifically for lowering applications becuz I think those give a 2in drop right?

 

S Tech springs replace OEM springs. No need to new anything.

 

any spring replaces the OEM springs but since its such a big drop wouldnt the strut need to be designed for the extra abuse?

 

^ No. You can use the OE struts with aftermarket springs, even at that drop. Might not be ideal but Tein wouldn't sell it if it was unsafe.

I rocked Eibach springs on OE struts for awhile before getting Koni Yellows.

 

So would it be better to replace the struts? If so any particular ones?

 

PM Rajca.. he lives in Harwood Heights as well. He can assist with local shops around the area..

Edit* If you plan on putting lowering springs on your stock struts.. they will eventually blow. Stock struts *usually* last about 100k depending on your driving habits, but once you compress lowering springs onto stock struts.. cut that life-span in about a half..

 

u put a lot of extra stress on oem shocks when u have lowering springs on. always get a shock that can handle the drop. tein sells the sprigs bc it can, gives them more profit. if someone cant afford the coil overs.

i can help u with some installs, im by oakpark and gunnison. but im really busy lately