[ZTWsquared]

06gtpony,Feb 24 2009, 10:48 PM Wrote:Had a customer come to my counter today with a 05 ZX5 hatch.
He was looking into purchasing the optional rear spoiler for his car (either the top-mount wing, or the spoiler that sits below the glass) to give him more downforce in the rear end.

He was complaining about the car feeling loose at highway speeds.  He described it almost as driving a hovercraft down the road.  Almost squirly.

Car checked out fine mechanically.  I suggested that he opt for a suspension upgrade (lowering springs and/or struts) to balance out the car a little better.  Mentioned that for the price of the wing, the results may be better with something different.

Have any of you guys run into this problem??...and/or found a solution??
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You didn't mention whether or not the condition is recent or since the car was new (never heard of a new Focus described as squirrely) ... and mileage on an 05 could easily be the problem ... it could be worn parts - struts, bushings, tires etc ... or a maintenance problem like under inflated tires

In any event, there will never be enough downforce from a spoiler at legal speeds to make any difference to the handling - so whatever the problem, a spoiler won't be the solution.