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BMW 3-Series (E90 E92) Forum > E90 / E92 / E93 3-series Technical Forums > Suspension | Brakes | Chassis > Help me improve my ride. Suspension 101?



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      07-09-2015, 12:45 AM   #1
Soul_Glo
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Red face Help me improve my ride. Suspension 101?

I have never kept a car beyond 70,000 miles and I don't know much about suspension other than springs, shocks and coil overs...

Well... I loved this car when I got it because I could chuck it around a bend with minimal body roll and it would feel very planted. I did not make a habit of taking fast corners but knew that the car was capable of it...

Recently it has started to feel a bit sloppy in the corners. Not as controlled and stable. I would not say it is all over the place but it has not felt like new for the past 1k miles or so.

Anything I need to check or that I can replace to improve the situation? Perhaps even to extend the life of the components? Any known suspect failure parts?

I have 'Sport' suspension if that helps.

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      07-11-2015, 08:32 PM   #2
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At that mileage , likely the struts and shocks need replacing. The front strut mounts have bearings in them and should be replaced at the same time if you don't want to do the same job twice later.

Front thrust arm bushings is another weak point in the E9x suspension, upgrade to M3 or replace with aftermarket HD version.

Front sway bar end links can have torn rubber boots at this point as well so have a look at those and replace as needed.
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      07-11-2015, 08:47 PM   #3
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Agree with HP and def +1 on the end links. the stock e90 end links are crap find good aftermarket ones.
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      07-11-2015, 09:57 PM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by einbruch10 View Post
Agree with HP and def +1 on the end links. the stock e90 end links are crap find good aftermarket ones.
These are excellent HD replacements:

http://www.hpashop.com/HD-Anti-Roll-...-Bar-links.htm

If you want/need adjustable versions:

http://www.hpashop.com/HP-Autosport-...ks-e82-e9x.htm
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      07-14-2015, 08:08 PM   #5
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Check your tires; ensure they have sufficient tread and measure the pressure when cold with a reliable gauge. Use the pressures listed on the driver side door sill.

I'm in agreement with the other posters that your dampers likely need replacement. I'd stick with the stock dampers if you liked the ride before, and aren't interested in lowering the car.

One other upgrade to consider is the upper rear shock mounts; they're a wear-and-tear item and should be replaced when you get new dampers. There are aftermarket versions that are a bit stiffer which can help the ride quality.

Before you get this all done, perhaps have the shop put the car on a lift and inspect the undercarriage for anything else that may require replacement. Doing everything at the same time is generally more economical.

Charles
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      07-15-2015, 08:26 AM   #6
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The cheaper alternative to buying a new car when your current car's ride sucks is to replace struts/shocks...then you will have a new car ride again.
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      07-16-2015, 04:24 AM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Broken_Gearbox View Post
I have never kept a car beyond 70,000 miles and I don't know much about suspension other than springs, shocks and coil overs...

At that mileage you want Koni FSD's all 'round, M3 rear subframe bushings, and if your don't have already BMW Sport springs.

Dude! You only thought it was planted....
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      07-16-2015, 07:53 AM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by CALWATERBOY View Post
At that mileage you want Koni FSD's all 'round, M3 rear subframe bushings, and if your don't have already BMW Sport springs.

Dude! You only thought it was planted....
Why I oughta...

Don't forget your infamous suggestions on LSD's

How about M3 sway's, OP?
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