Description
KW V1 Coilovers – 10/96–05 Volkswagen Passat (B5 B5.5 3B 3BG) is built for the enthusiast who wants the suspension to become a functional part of the chassis setup, not simply a visual drop.
KW V1 combines threaded ride-height adjustment with an application-specific, factory-set damper calibration. It is intended for drivers who want the response and stance benefits of a complete coilover without external damping controls. The application-specific calibration is intended to give the chassis a more deliberate response than a one-size-fits-all suspension combination.
Why Choose the KW V1 for This Application?
Choose the V1 when you want a complete KW coilover and adjustable stance but prefer KW to define the damper calibration. It is the simplest route into the KW coilover range and avoids adding setup decisions the car may not need.
Key Features
- Continuously adjustable ride height within the application-specific range
- Preset KW damping developed for the vehicle application
- Stainless-steel KW coilover construction on applicable strut assemblies
- No rebound or compression tuning required after installation
Vehicle Fitment
- Make: Volkswagen
- Catalog Application: 10/96–05 Volkswagen Passat (B5 B5.5 3B 3BG)
- Configuration: Sedan + Wagon; Syncro/4motion; all engines
- KW Jobber Model Years: 10/96-05
- KW Part Number: 10280017
Technical Specifications
- Front Height Adjustment: 40-75 mm (1.5-2.9 in)
- Rear Height Adjustment: 40-75 mm (1.5-2.9 in)
- Front Spring Rate: 690 lb/in
- Rear Spring Rate: Progressive-rate spring (KW jobber designation)
Enthusiast Setup Perspective
The tuning opportunity is greatest when the car has already moved beyond basic cosmetic modification. As grip and braking capability increase, damper control becomes progressively more important to keeping the chassis predictable. For a road-driven car, preserving usable bump travel and sensible alignment is usually more important than using the full available lowering range.
Important KW Fitment Notes
- KW Note 1: Height adjustable on the front and rear axles (threaded strut housings)
- KW Note 9: The automatic level control must be disabled
- KW Note 10: For V2, V3 & Street Comfort coilovers, front shock absorbers need to be removed from the car for adjustment of stiffness
- KW Note 16: Additional assembly parts are required from the automobile manufacturer for vehicles with self levelling control. (Audi part-no.: damper bearing 8E0 512 121 E, spring base 8E0 512 149 H, bump stop eB0 512 131Q)
Fitment note: Specifications above are tied to the exact KW part number shown and the application data in the supplied KW jobber sheet. Confirm the vehicle's drivetrain, factory electronic suspension, axle weight and any listed hardware requirements before ordering.