The H&R 53039 is a Sport-stage lowering spring set for the Typ B16 Nissan Sentra, and the manufacturer lists it for 2007 through 2012 model years. Its application chart gives an approximate drop of 1.5 inches in front and 1.4 inches in rear, and the suggested retail for the kit is $349.00. Because the drop is modest and the springs are designed to sit in the stock spring positions, the case for this set is a lower stance and a tighter fender gap at a price below full coilovers, not a change in ride character. Owners on user forums report that the springs work on factory struts, but they also warn that lowered ride height can wear the dampers faster, so keep that in mind when you plan the rest of the suspension.
Fitment and install matter as much as the drop number. Confirm your trim and model year against the manufacturer's application chart before ordering, and measure ride height before and after installation, as the manufacturer recommends. Alignment should be checked after any ride height change, so budget for an alignment shop visit. Searches like "2007-2012 Sentra B16 sport springs," "H&R 53039 front and rear drop," and "B16 Sentra lowering springs on stock struts" usually lead to the right information for this kit.
The manufacturer states that H&R springs fit the same way as stock springs. If the spring is the same diameter at both ends, install it with the closer coils facing up. If one end is smaller, match the orientation of the factory spring.
The manufacturer says alignment should be checked after any ride height modification, and recommends following the factory service manual to get as close to factory specification as possible.
Owners on user forums report mixed results. Some run these springs on factory struts without problems so far, while others say lowered springs can wear the dampers faster and cause more bump-stop contact. Details vary, so confirm with the manufacturer before deciding whether to replace the dampers too.
This is a moderate DIY job. Owners on user forums list metric tools up to 22mm, a jack and jack stands, and a spring compressor for the front struts as the basic kit. The rear springs are usually easier because you can lower the axle and the springs drop out without a compressor, then set the new springs in and raise the axle back into position. Measure ride height before you start so you can compare it afterward, and plan for an alignment once the car is back on the ground.
