If you’re looking to breathe new life into your Honda Acty kei truck, upgrading the front suspension is one of the best weekend projects you can take on. Whether you use your Acty for farm work, delivery duty, or weekend adventures, a suspension upgrade improves ride quality, ground clearance, and load-handling capability.
In this hands-on tutorial, we’ll walk you through a DIY front suspension spring upgrade—a simple but high-impact job that’ll have your Acty riding like new (or better).
???? What You'll Need
Tools:
Floor jack + jack stands
Wheel chocks
Lug wrench
Socket set (10mm–19mm)
Breaker bar
Torque wrench
Spring compressor (for safety)
Penetrating oil (WD-40 or PB Blaster)
Rubber mallet or pry bar (optional)
Parts:
New front coil springs
OEM replacements or 1"–2" lift springs (from brands like Spacers Garage, PPD Performance, or JDM imports)
Optional: New strut mounts, bushings, and shocks
???? Tip: Upgrading shocks at the same time as springs gives the best performance improvement.
???? Step-by-Step: How to Upgrade the Front Suspension Springs
✅ Step 1: Park, Prep, and Stay Safe
Park your Acty on a level surface.
Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
Slightly loosen the front lug nuts (but don’t remove them yet).
✅ Step 2: Lift the Front End
Jack up the front of the truck.
Securely place jack stands under the frame or control arms.
Remove the front wheels.
✅ Step 3: Remove the Strut Assemblies
Open the hood and locate the three strut mount nuts inside the engine bay (per side).
Spray penetrating oil on all fasteners (especially if rusted).
Remove the lower bolts that connect the strut to the steering knuckle.
Remove the upper mount nuts.
Carefully slide out the complete strut assembly.
⚠️ Be careful when handling the strut — it may still be under some spring pressure.
✅ Step 4: Replace the Springs
Attach the spring compressor to the old spring and compress it evenly.
Remove the center nut on the strut to separate the top mount.
Take out the old spring.
Install the new spring, making sure it seats properly in both perches.
Reassemble the strut, securely tightening the top nut.
???? Always use a spring compressor. Coil springs are under high tension and can cause serious injury if released incorrectly.
✅ Step 5: Reinstall the Strut Assembly
Reinsert the strut into the upper strut tower.
Loosely thread the upper mount nuts.
Align the lower strut with the steering knuckle and install bolts.
Tighten everything to manufacturer torque specs (refer to your Acty service manual).
Finish tightening the upper nuts.
✅ Step 6: Reinstall the Wheels and Lower the Truck
Mount the wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the truck back to the ground.
Torque the lug nuts in a star pattern to factory spec.
???? Final Checks
✅ Ensure the vehicle sits evenly on both sides.
✅ Take a short test drive — listen for clunks or noises.
✅ Double-check all bolts after driving 50–100 km.
✅ Schedule a wheel alignment immediately to avoid uneven tire wear.
???? Helpful Tips
Ride height: Expect a 1"–2" lift with upgraded springs (depending on brand and model).
Alignment: Lifting even a small amount can affect toe and camber — an alignment is essential.
Shocks: If your shocks are old or mismatched, now is the perfect time to upgrade.
Rusty fasteners? Heat + penetrating oil works wonders.
???? Suspension Brands to Consider
If you're shopping for front springs or lift kits, look into:
Spacers Garage – Reliable lift kits & spring combos
PPD Performance – Offers Acty-specific suspension upgrades
Custom JDM Importers – You can find upgraded coil springs with variable stiffness or lift height
???? Final Thoughts
Upgrading the front suspension on your Honda Acty is more than just a cosmetic change. It’s a performance upgrade that can make your truck safer, more comfortable, and more capable—on or off-road. Whether you're replacing worn-out OEM parts or dialing in a custom lifted stance, this is a satisfying and approachable DIY project for any weekend warrior.