Lowering Springs Guide
Best Lowering Springs for the
2012 – 2016 Porsche Boxster & Cayman 981: Every Kit Compared
A complete comparison of lowering spring kits for the 2012–2016 Porsche Boxster and Cayman (981 platform) — covering base, S, and GTS models with and without PASM. Drop heights, pricing, fitment notes, and real-world owner feedback.
At a Glance
Quick Comparison
| Brand / Kit | Front Drop | Rear Drop | Fits | Type | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| H&R Sport (Boxster) | -1.2" | -1.2" | Boxster 981 w/ PASM | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| H&R Sport (Cayman) | -1.2" | -1.2" | Cayman/Boxster 981 w/ PASM | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| H&R Sport (Boxster S) | -1.2" | -1.2" | Boxster S 981 w/ PASM | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| Eibach Pro-Kit | -0.8" to -1.2" | -0.4" to -1.2" | Boxster/Cayman 981 | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| H&R VTF | Adjustable | Adjustable | 981 w/ PASM | Adjustable |
|
SHOP → |
Important
What to Know Before You Buy
PASM vs Non-PASM
PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) is the factory adaptive damping system. Most 981 Boxsters and Caymans have PASM. Spring kits are often PASM-specific — the Eibach Pro-Kit has different drops for PASM vs non-PASM cars. H&R offers separate PASM and non-PASM variants.
981 Platform
The 981 is the 2012–2016 Boxster and 2014–2016 Cayman (the Cayman was introduced in 2014). The 982 (2017+) has different suspension geometry; 981 springs do not fit 982.
Boxster vs Cayman
Boxster (convertible) and Cayman (coupe) share the same platform but may have different spring part numbers. Verify fitment for your exact model (base, S, GTS) and PASM status.
Alignment & Leveling
Porsche recommends alignment after lowering. Some 981s have leveling control; verify that your chosen kit is compatible. Eibach and H&R provide PASM-specific fitment.
Eibach Pro-Kit Lowering Springs
The Eibach Pro-Kit (E10-72-013-01-22) is the only kit in this guide that fits both Boxster and Cayman 981 with a single part number. Drop heights vary by PASM: with PASM, expect -0.8" front and -0.4" to -0.8" rear; without PASM, -1.2" front and -0.8" to -1.2" rear. The conservative PASM drop maintains ride quality with the adaptive dampers.
Eibach's progressive spring design balances handling and comfort. Fits 2013–2016 Boxster and 2014–2016 Cayman. Best choice if you want one kit for multiple 981 models.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2014–16 Cayman 981 w/ PASM | -0.8" | -0.4" |
| 2014–16 Cayman 981 w/o PASM | -1.2" | -0.8" |
| 2013–16 Boxster 981 w/ PASM | -0.8" | -0.8" |
| 2013–16 Boxster 981 w/o PASM | -1.2" | -1.2" |
Pros
- Single kit for Boxster and Cayman
- PASM and non-PASM fitment
- Conservative PASM drop maintains ride quality
- Made in Germany
Cons
- Higher price than H&R
- PASM drop is subtle (-0.8" F)
H&R Sport Lowering Springs (Boxster)
The H&R 981 Sport Spring Kit (28865-1) is designed for the 2013–2016 Porsche Boxster with PASM. It delivers approximately 1.2" front and 1.2" rear drop. H&R springs are cold-wound from 54SiCr6 steel in Germany. The progressive rate balances daily comfort with improved handling.
This is the most affordable option for Boxster 981 owners. Fits base Boxster with PASM. For Boxster S, use the Boxster S-specific kit.
Pros
- Lowest price in this guide
- Equal front/rear drop
- Made in Germany
- PASM compatible
Cons
- Boxster only (base model)
- Requires PASM
H&R Sport Lowering Springs (Cayman)
The H&R 981 Sport Spring Kit (28865-1) for Cayman/Boxster fits 2013–2016 Cayman and Boxster models with PASM. Same 1.2" front and 1.2" rear drop as the Boxster-specific kit. Ideal for Cayman owners who want the H&R option.
This kit covers both Cayman and Boxster in one part number, offering flexibility if you have multiple 981s or aren't sure which variant you need.
Pros
- Fits Cayman and Boxster
- Same price as Boxster-only
- Made in Germany
Cons
- Requires PASM
H&R Sport Lowering Springs (Boxster S)
The H&R 981 Sport Spring Kit (28865-1) for Boxster S fits 2012–2016 Porsche Boxster S with PASM. Same 1.2" front and 1.2" rear drop. The Boxster S has different suspension tuning than the base Boxster; this kit is calibrated for the S model.
Pros
- Boxster S-specific fitment
- 1.2" equal drop
- Made in Germany
Cons
- Boxster S only
- Requires PASM
H&R VTF Adjustable Lowering Springs
The H&R VTF (Variable Tieferlegungs Federn) is the only adjustable option in this guide. It fits 2012–2016 Porsche Boxster and Cayman 981 with PASM. You can fine-tune ride height to your preference. H&R also offers VTF for Boxster S and Cayman S.
At roughly twice the cost of fixed springs, the VTF is for owners who want flexibility. Installation is more involved than fixed springs.
Pros
- Adjustable ride height
- Works with PASM
- Made in Germany
Cons
- Significantly more expensive
- More complex installation
Fitment Reference
Which Kits Fit Your Trim?
| Trim | Eibach | H&R Boxster | H&R Cayman | H&R Boxster S | H&R VTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boxster (base) w/ PASM | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Boxster S w/ PASM | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cayman (base) w/ PASM | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| w/o PASM | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
✓ = Confirmed fitment • ✗ = Does not fit
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need new shocks when installing lowering springs?
No. All kits in this guide are designed to work with factory PASM dampers (or standard dampers for Eibach non-PASM fitment). If your 981 has high mileage, consider refreshing the dampers when installing springs.
Will lowering springs void my factory warranty?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealer cannot void your entire warranty for installing aftermarket parts. However, warranty claims directly related to the modification can be denied. Most 981s are out of factory warranty.
I have a 981 without PASM. Which kits fit?
The Eibach Pro-Kit is the only kit in this guide with explicit non-PASM fitment. It delivers -1.2" front and -0.8" to -1.2" rear on non-PASM cars. The H&R kits require PASM.
Do 981 springs fit the 982 (2017+ 718)?
No. The 982 has different suspension geometry. Use our 718 982 guide for 2017+ Boxster and Cayman.
Should I get lowering springs or coilovers?
Lowering springs offer a set drop at lower cost ($294–$719 vs. $1,500+ for coilovers). If you want adjustable ride height and damping, coilovers are the better choice. Check our Suspension Buyers Guide for a full comparison.
Ready to Lower Your 981?
Browse all of our lowering springs for Porsche, or contact us if you need help choosing the right kit for your model and PASM status.