Suspension upgrades
Suspension upgrades are modifications intended to improve the handling, ride quality, adjustability, stability, or appearance of the Pontiac Fiero.
Suspension upgrades are common on restored Fieros, performance builds, engine-swapped cars, autocross cars, track cars, and cars where the original suspension parts are worn or outdated.
Overview
The Fiero suspension differs between the 1984-1987 cars and the 1988 cars. Because of these differences, suspension upgrades should always be researched by model year.
Many handling problems are caused by worn original parts rather than the basic suspension design. Before modifying the suspension, the condition of bushings, ball joints, tie rods, shocks, struts, wheel bearings, tires, and alignment should be checked.
Common upgrade types
Common Fiero suspension upgrades include:
- Replacement shocks and struts
- Lowering springs
- Coilovers
- Polyurethane bushings
- Sway bar changes
- Ball joint replacement
- Tie rod replacement
- Wheel and tire changes
- Alignment changes
- Rear cradle upgrades
- 1988 cradle swaps
- Bump steer correction
1984-1987 suspension upgrades
The 1984-1987 Fiero suspension is commonly modified to reduce body roll, improve steering response, lower the car, or improve rear suspension behavior.
Related topics:
- 1984-1987 suspension
- 1984-1987 front suspension
- 1984-1987 rear suspension
- Bump steer
- Sway bars
- Lowering springs
- Coilovers
- Polyurethane bushings
1988 suspension upgrades
The 1988 Fiero uses a redesigned suspension that differs significantly from earlier cars. Many 1988 suspension parts are specific to that model year.
Related topics:
- 1988 suspension
- 1988 front suspension
- 1988 rear suspension
- 1988 suspension parts
- 1988 wheel bearings
- 1988 cradle
Bushings
Replacement bushings can restore or change suspension feel. Rubber bushings are usually closer to factory behavior, while polyurethane bushings may provide a firmer feel but can increase noise, vibration, harshness, or squeaking if not installed and lubricated correctly.
Related topics:
Springs, shocks, and struts
Springs, shocks, and struts affect ride height, ride quality, body control, and handling.
Lowering a Fiero can change alignment, suspension travel, tire clearance, and bump stop behavior.
Related topics:
Sway bars
Sway bar changes can affect body roll and handling balance. Some owners add, replace, or relocate sway bars, especially on 1984-1987 cars.
Related topics:
Wheels and tires
Tires have a major effect on handling. Suspension upgrades may not produce the desired result if the tires are old, mismatched, incorrectly sized, or poorly suited to the car.
Related topics:
Alignment
Alignment is one of the most important parts of suspension setup. A modified Fiero may need alignment settings different from a stock commuter-oriented setup.
Related topics:
Safety and planning
Suspension upgrades affect steering, braking, tire wear, stability, and ride quality. Parts should be installed correctly, fasteners should be tightened properly, and the car should be aligned after suspension work.