[govtec]

Hi all, I normally don't frequent this section of the forum. I'm hoping users in this section can provide me with feedback and options on my questions.

My current ride is an '06 325xi with the sports package. Due to a medical condition, I have flare ups of lower back pain. I don't expect this to go away anytime soon. As you can imagine the sports suspension isn't improving my condition as I use the car as a daily commuter. Next month I'll be paying the car loan off in full. I have about 72K mostly highway miles on the odometer.

I'll list some of my questions and concerns below. Feel free to chime in and I appreciate your input. Thanks

1. On my next oil change at the dealership, What can I ask them to do to soften the ride a little bit without doing a complete suspension overhaul?

2. If I have to swap out the sport suspension, What are my options in terms of OEM parts? What kind of price tag are we talking about with parts and labor?

3. With new suspension parts, Is it possible to set up the suspension to be a little bit softer than OEM?

[marcharlan]

I am interested as well. I 'fell into' a great 2008 E90 which has the sport suspension, but the ride is awfully harsh for New Jersey roads which are poorly maintained.

[mike-y]

well, I guess you can swap on the non-sport suspension which is softer. I have a set for sale off my car if either of you are interested. real cheap, just PM me.

Also, you might want to look at swapping tires to non-RFT which will usually ride better (but then you need a spare or other flat tire solution), or step down in wheel size. non-sport 325/328 have 16" wheels with a larger profile tire, that gives a little more than the sports package tires.

[nicknaz]

Do you still drive an 'xi' E9X ? If so you do not have a sport suspension. If you have a 325 or 328 you can try going to 205/55/16 non run flat tires to improve the ride. also, try to make sure your back is right up against the seat back.

[marcharlan]

Thanks. I think that I will go the 16" route first. I'll be looking to a set of "take offs".

[Mr. 5]

Hey Govtec,
I hope your condition gets better.
To answer your questions, there is nothing that can be done to the sport suspension since it's not adjustable.

The only thing that I can see you doing is trading with somebody your sport suspension for their regular suspension, which in most cases people will do since more people want to do opposite of you. You can also charge them since your suspension is in more of a demand.

It's most likely going to be about 4 hours to do the job plus an alignment.

[zerox_guru]

what about koni fsd setup..

[Mr. 5]

Originally Posted by zerox_guru

what about koni fsd setup..

The ZSP springs are still going to be harder than the non sport springs.

[Ron@Modbargains]

You have an XI model right, go with some KW V3's and get them set to the softest settings.

[Fraggy]

FSDs are nice, but as soft as most people think. If you really really need a soft ride, get coil overs set at the softest setting. That with a smaller wheel and non rfts and its about as good as its going to get for a bmw.

[Fraggy]

Originally Posted by Fraggy

FSDs are nice, but not as soft as most people think. If you really really need a soft ride, get coil overs set at the softest setting. That with a smaller wheel and non rfts and its about as good as its going to get for a bmw.

But honestly, coil overs are pretty expensive for a car that already has such high mileage. Non sport, smaller wheels, non rfts and youre good

[Mr. 5]

Originally Posted by Fraggy

But honestly, coil overs are pretty expensive for a car that already has such high mileage. Non sport, smaller wheels, non rfts and youre good

That's what I think as well.
To purchase coilovers just to put it on the softest setting is a complete waste of money IMO.

[govtec]

Appreciate your thoughts...better to go with an indy shop for installation of non-sport suspension or pay a little extra at the dealership for the piece of mind?