Coilovers are a popular suspension upgrade for BMW 3 Series cars that radically transform your ride’s handling and look. A stock suspension setup can’t compare to the adjustments and performance upgrades afforded by an aftermarket coilover system. E93 coilovers deliver massive improvements to cornering ability, braking forcefulness, and traction on any road surface.
They also enable you to customize your ride height for an ultra-low profile stance fully. In this guide, we will detail the top E93 coilover brands to consider, provide step-by-step installation instructions, and explain how the handling and appearance of your 3 Series are enhanced. By upgrading to an E93 coilover suspension, you can take your driving dynamics and style to the next level.
Choosing the Right Coilovers
When shopping for E93 coilovers ,the first decision is determining your budget and needs. Will these be used mainly for tracking your car or for comfortable daily driving? Racing coils with extra stiff springs are best for aggressive driving, while daily coils offer compliance over imperfect roads.
Consider features as well, such as separate height and dampening adjustments on each corner. Popular brands like BC, KW Variant 3, and Ground Control offer great performance and tuning potential for professional installations.
Ensuring your chosen coils are compatible with E93 suspension geometry and include all required mounting hardware will guarantee an easy bolt-on upgrade. Doing your research on reviews is key to selecting coils perfectly matched to your goals.
Installation Guide
Installing E93 coilovers correctly requires some mechanical ability but isn’t an overwhelming task. The first step is to secure the car on a lift or jack stand, then remove the front and rear stock shocks and springs. This takes some persuasive force to break the rubber bushings free. With the factory components out, loosely mount each new Coilover using the provided top and bottom hats.
Leave the perches slightly loose for the final ride height adjustment later. Grease any contact points to prevent squeaking. Reattach the sway bars and tie rods, then torque all hardware securely. Test the spring and dampener clicks before road testing the newfound handling prowess.
Handling Improvements
Cornering – Stiffer springs and adjustable dampers allow for more precise turn-in and better control through corners. You can push harder into bends.
Braking – With the suspension locked down, braking force is transferred smoothly to the tires for shorter stopping distances.
Body Roll – E93 coilovers eliminate nearly all leaning-in turns. The rigidity improves confidence.
Tracking Ability – Lowering the car brings its center of gravity closer to the asphalt for quicker steering responses and more grip during track sessions.
Traction – Improved wheel articulation from the coilover’s adjustability allows for finer control of wheelspin/slippage and better traction/traction over varied surfaces from regular roads to the track.
Appearance Upgrades
One of the best things about an E93 coilover conversion is the ability to radically alter the appearance of your 3 Series. With the slick drop in ride height produced by coilovers, the raked profile and aggressive sporty stance will turn heads. Professional installations can achieve a tailor-fit ride height balanced between function and form.
Additionally, the adjustable nature of coilovers allows for customization to match the look of staggered wheel fitments. Whether with OEM wheels or aftermarket alloys, the perfect pairing of low-profile rubber and precise suspension height maximizes curb appeal. E93 coilovers are an easy bolt-on upgrade that delivers an eye-catching aesthetic transformation.
After Installation Tips
- Take it easy for the first 100 miles while the coils break in and settle in.
- Re-check all bolts and fittings after the first week to ensure nothing has come loose during settling.
- Adjust ride height as desired by turning the perch collars. Raise for potholes, lower for track days.
- Top off dampener reservoirs every 6 months with the recommended fluid.
- Expect some harshness at first that softens as the bushings wear in over 1,000-2,000 miles.
- Inspect for leaking dampeners, blown shock seals or blown springs annually.
- Keep notes on click settings for consistent handling as rebound/compression is adjusted.
- Consider alignment checks anytime height, camber or toe is adjusted.
- Track vehicle changes with break-ins to fine-tune dampening for your needs.
- Listen for odd noises that could signal worn components needing replacement.
Conclusion
Upgrading from stock springs and shocks to a quality set of E93 coilovers is an investment that pays huge dividends in handling, braking, and custom appearance. Whether chasing better lap times or seeking improved road manners, coilovers provide capabilities far beyond vanilla suspension hardware.
Professional installations ensure safe, reliable performance for seasons of enjoyment. Customer reviews consistently report transformed driving dynamics and eye-catching looks achieved through a simple bolt-on upgrade. If you demand more from your BMW 3 Series on both the street and track, upgrading to coilovers is an unbeatable route to the next performance level.
