Best Struts For RSX Type S with 5 Top Picks

When I first got my RSX Type S, the handling was good, but after years of spirited driving, those factory struts just weren’t cutting it anymore. Upgrading the suspension components is one of the best changes you can make to this chassis. I’ve spent time testing different options, from basic replacements to full coilovers, to find the best struts for RSX Type S that truly enhance performance and ride quality without unnecessary complexity. This guide compiles the top five tested options that deliver real-world benefits.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	maXpeedingrods Coilovers for Acura RSX & Type-S 2002-2006,…	View on Amazon
	BHB Adjustable Coilovers Compatible with Acura RSX Type-S…	View on Amazon
	24-Way Damper Coilover Suspension Shocks Struts Kit…	View on Amazon
	BHB Adjustable Coilovers Compatible with Acura RSX Type-S…	View on Amazon
	COMPLETESTRUTS – Front & Rear Complete Strut Assemblies…	View on Amazon

maXpeedingrods Coilovers for Acura RSX & Type-S 2002-2006, Height Adjustable Full Coilover Suspension Kit, Preset Damping Shock Absorber Struts, Lowering Kit Gold

If you’re looking to dramatically drop your RSX and achieve that aggressive stance while still maintaining solid street performance, these maXpeedingrods coilovers are an excellent starting point. They offer full height adjustment (1-3 inches lower than stock) and come with a reliable preset damping value right out of the box, making installation simpler than fully customizable systems. They are constructed using 6061 aluminum alloy, ensuring high strength and durability, especially for those who drive enthusiastically.

Key features that stand out:
– Lowering Height: Ride height is fully adjustable, allowing a drop of 1-3 inches.
– Preset Damping Value: Offers consistent and predictable handling without requiring manual tuning.
– High Tensile Spring: Front: 8 kg/mm & Rear: 6 kg/mm, designed to handle aggressive driving.

Pros:
– Excellent value for a full coilover system.
– Durable 6061 aluminum alloy construction.
– Preset damping simplifies installation and setup.

Cons:
– The ride quality, while sporty, might be too firm for some daily drivers.

Best for: Budget-minded enthusiasts prioritizing ride height adjustment and track-ready stiffness.

Expert Opinion: These coilovers are built tough and deliver an immediate change in handling dynamics. While the preset damping is convenient, drivers focused purely on comfort might find the stiffness assertive, but performance drivers will appreciate the feedback.

BHB Adjustable Coilovers Compatible with Acura RSX Type-S 2002-2006 Compatible with Honda Integra DC5 2001-2006 Coil Spring Absorber Struts Suspension Lowering Kit Red

The BHB Red Adjustable Coilovers are engineered specifically to match the OEM fitment points of the Acura RSX Type-S and the Honda Integra DC5, ensuring a precise and straightforward installation. These are designed to balance performance benefits like high-speed rebound and increased chassis support with improved comfort due to reduced unsprung mass. This kit provides an excellent middle ground for those wanting adjustability without committing to overly complex damper settings.

Key features that stand out:
– Designed to match stock spring locations: Ensures precise, hassle-free installation.
– Reduced Unsprung Mass: Helps improve ride comfort and responsiveness.
– Full Suspension Kit: Includes all four shock absorbers and springs.

Pros:
– Simple installation due to OEM matching design.
– Offers noticeable handling improvement over worn stock struts.
– Good balance between performance and daily driving comfort.

Cons:
– Lacks the advanced damping adjustments of premium kits.

Best for: Daily drivers who want a lowering option combined with improved handling and easy installation.

Expert Opinion: BHB delivers a solid, reliable component package. For the driver who occasionally hits the track but primarily uses their RSX for daily commutes, these offer the necessary support and a sporty drop without being overly harsh.

24-Way Damper Coilover Suspension Shocks Struts Kit Replacement for Acura RSX Base/Type-S Coupe 2D 2002-2006 Hon-da Integra DC5 2001-2006 Vahaha

The Vahaha 24-Way adjustable kit is for the RSX owner who demands fine-tuning capability. Featuring a Twin-Tube structure and independent ride height adjustment, this coilover setup allows the driver to completely customize both the height (lowering 1″-3″) and the damping characteristics across 24 distinct settings. This level of control is crucial whether you are setting up for a specific track surface or adjusting for varied road conditions. They also boast comprehensive road testing to ensure high performance and comfort expectations are met.

Key features that stand out:
– 24-Way Adjustable Damping: Allows precise tuning of rebound and compression.
– Independent Ride Height Adjustable: Tune ride height without compromising spring preload.
– High Tensile Performance Spring: Spring rates match common performance setups (Front: 8 kg/mm, Rear: 6 kg/mm).

Pros:
– Exceptional level of control over ride quality and stiffness.
– Robust construction with a 2-year warranty.
– Ideal for street and occasional track use where tuning is necessary.

Cons:
– Tuning takes time and expertise to dial in perfectly.

Best for: Performance enthusiasts and tuners who need granular control over their suspension setup for various driving scenarios.

Expert Opinion: If you understand suspension tuning, the 24-way adjustability is a huge advantage, allowing you to fine-tune your best struts for RSX Type S handling. They are designed for serious drivers who want to extract maximum performance from the DC5 chassis.

BHB Adjustable Coilovers Compatible with Acura RSX Type-S 2002-2006 Compatible with Honda Integra DC5 2001-2006 Coil Spring Absorber Struts Suspension Lowering Kit Gold

Functionally identical to the BHB Red kit reviewed above, the Gold version provides the same high-quality performance and easy installation for the Acura RSX Type S owner who prefers a different aesthetic. These coilovers focus on reducing unsprung mass and increasing support, translating directly into better road feel and responsiveness compared to aging OEM components. Like its red counterpart, it ensures seamless integration by matching stock spring locations.

Key features that stand out:
– Stock Match Installation: Engineered for direct fitment on the RSX and DC5 platforms.
– Improved Performance: Provides increased support and high-speed rebound control.
– Full Set: A complete, ready-to-install suspension package.

Pros:
– Consistent quality and fitment across BHB lines.
– Offers a great visual upgrade in gold plating.
– Effective at providing increased chassis support.

Cons:
– Adjustability is limited compared to damper-adjustable kits.

Best for: Drivers looking for reliable performance coilovers with a sleek gold aesthetic and easy installation.

Expert Opinion: The choice between the red and gold BHB models often comes down to personal preference for color, as the engineering remains sound across both. They provide a solid baseline performance upgrade that many RSX owners will be happy with.

COMPLETESTRUTS – Front & Rear Complete Strut Assemblies with Coil Springs Replacement for 2002-2004 Acura RSX – Set of 4

Sometimes, the goal isn’t to modify or lower the car, but simply to restore its original ride quality without the complexity of component assembly. This COMPLETESTRUTS kit offers exactly that: a direct OE-specification replacement for 2002-2004 RSX models. Because they come as complete strut assemblies with coil springs already installed, they are by far the simplest option for DIY enthusiasts, requiring no spring compressors.

Key features that stand out:
– Complete Assembly: Struts, springs, and mounts are pre-assembled for plug-and-play installation.
– OE Specifications: Designed to match the factory ride quality and height exactly.
– Simple Installation: No need for specialized tools like spring compressors.

Pros:
– Fastest and easiest way to replace worn suspension components.
– Restores original factory ride feel and height.
– Excellent solution for older cars needing immediate maintenance.

Cons:
– Does not allow for any height or damping adjustment.

Best for: Owners who want to restore factory ride comfort, maintain stock height, or those looking for the easiest possible installation.

Expert Opinion: When assessing the best struts for RSX Type S, we can’t forget the value of a quality stock replacement. For daily driving where comfort and reliability trump aggressive tuning, this complete assembly kit is often the smartest choice.

Comparison and Buying Insights

When deciding between these options, you’re primarily choosing between two categories: Restoration/Simplicity and Performance/Adjustability.

The COMPLETESTRUTS assembly is the clear winner for simplicity. It’s designed to be a direct OE replacement, meaning you maintain the original ride height and comfort profile. Installation is incredibly quick, making it ideal for standard maintenance fixes.

For those focused on lowering the car, the maXpeedingrods, Vahaha, and BHB coilovers are the contenders. The maXpeedingrods offer preset damping, which removes guesswork but limits customization. Both BHB options (Red and Gold) offer a great balance of street comfort and lowering with simplified installation points.

The true enthusiast looking for the highest level of tuning control should strongly consider the Vahaha 24-way adjustable kit. While this requires more effort to set up, the ability to fine-tune the damping means you can perfectly tailor the stiffness to your specific driving demands—from smooth highway cruises to tight canyon runs.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your RSX Suspension

Choosing the best struts for RSX Type S depends entirely on your driving lifestyle and goals for the car.

If you prioritize easy installation and maintaining the OEM feel: Go with the COMPLETESTRUTS assembly. It’s the fastest route to renewed ride quality.

If you want a significant drop and enhanced sporty handling without the hassle of tuning: The BHB Adjustable Coilovers (Red or Gold) provide a great, reliable middle ground.

If you demand absolute control over damping and ride characteristics for track use or highly aggressive street driving: The Vahaha 24-Way Damper Coilover Kit offers the comprehensive tuning ability you need.

Best Struts For RSX Type S FAQ

Q1: Do coilovers drastically change the comfort level compared to stock RSX Type S suspension?

A: Yes, generally they do. Performance coilovers, especially those with high spring rates like 8 kg/mm, will feel much stiffer than the stock suspension. While this improves responsiveness and reduces body roll (critical for performance driving), it can result in a firmer ride quality on rough or uneven roads. If comfort is a primary concern, look for kits designed for reduced unsprung mass, like the BHB options, or choose an OE replacement.

Q2: What is the benefit of 24-way adjustable damping, and do I really need it?

A: 24-way adjustable damping allows you to independently adjust the compression and rebound rates of the shock absorber. If you frequently track your RSX, or if you change wheel/tire setups often, this adjustability lets you perfectly match the damping force to the spring rate and road conditions. If your RSX is a street car and you don’t plan on tuning beyond initial setup, a preset or less adjustable coilover kit may be sufficient and easier to manage.

Q3: Are these suspension kits compatible with both the RSX Base Model and the Type S?

A: Yes, most coilover kits designed for the Acura RSX Type-S 2002-2006 are also compatible with the Base Model, as the chassis structure (DC5 platform) is largely the same. However, always double-check the product description, as spring rates may be optimized for the Type S’s expected performance demands.

Q4: How much lower can I drop my RSX with these adjustable coilovers?

A: Most adjustable coilover kits, including the maXpeedingrods and Vahaha options, allow for a drop range of 1 to 3 inches below the original ride height. While a 3-inch drop provides a very aggressive stance, be aware that excessive lowering can negatively impact axle angles, causing premature wear, and potentially lead to scraping issues on public roads.

Q5: Will I need additional parts when installing new best struts for RSX Type S?

A: If you purchase a complete strut assembly (like the COMPLETESTRUTS kit), you likely won’t need anything else as the springs and mounts are included. If you buy a coilover kit, you generally reuse your OEM top mounts unless the kit specifically states it includes new top hats. It is often recommended to replace old or worn bushings and end links at the same time for optimal performance.

Q6: How does reducing unsprung mass improve handling?

A: Unsprung mass refers to the weight not supported by the suspension (wheels, tires, brakes, and sometimes the shock absorber itself). By reducing unsprung mass, the suspension components can react quicker to road imperfections. This improves tire contact with the road surface, leading to better grip, increased stability, and an overall improvement in ride comfort and handling responsiveness.