Air suspension on E46?

bmw9 · Dec 29, 2017

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrvq9JoMz_U

I don't have an m3 I have a 330. However I wanted to know what you think of that suspension, and which brand to buy?

I would like to lower my car from stock sport (which looks fine) to maybe 1/2 to 1 inch lower. However, there are concerns about ride quality for just dropping the car.

Also by raising it up on air suspension I can increase ride quality during a longer drive. If I just dropped the car I would have no such option.

Also, I heard that if you just drop the car with shorter springs (instead of coilover or air) it can wear out parts faster.

The new Audis actually have an air suspension and you can choose on the computer different suspension modes and ride qualities. I don't want an audi but I thought that was a cool feature. I test drove one just for fun and it was pretty cool.

I saw this air suspension for e46 but I'm not sure if this is any good:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/75546-Air-...5546-Air-Lift-Performance-Air-Strut-Suspension-Front-Drop-Kit-BMW-3-Series-E46/

Also I want to know if this is something I can DIY just fine, if so would I need special tools and how hard, and lastly if I get it done how much would be the cost?

Also I wondered if there is a button remote to raise and lower. For example if I go over bump or up steep driveway I will want to raise it up so I don't break my front bumper.

Summary:
Thoughts on air suspension?
Which brand recommended? (link)?
Better than stock sport suspension?
Better than coilover?
Ride quality?
Potential problems?
Can I DIY, if so any special tools needed?
Cost for install?
Is there a remote to raise/lower ride?

Thanks guys :thumbsup:

nickfab330i · Dec 30, 2017

I’m just here to observe. I have similar thoughts

Ramajj · Jan 24, 2018

I am currently in the process of purchasing the components for this. I'm going with airlift performance. Everyone that I know running the setup loves it. For the most part the majority of people on this forum seem to hate the idea but at the end of the day it's your car, so build what you love. :thanks:

asianisafish · Feb 1, 2018

You only want to lower .5 to 1 inch and getting air...?

Airlift performance is good.
Typically people get air for looks so they can lower it extensively while parked, and then raise it up to drive. Ride quality will be fine with coilovers, springs shock combo if you know what to expect and have a goal of the end result

zander271 · Feb 15, 2018

Air is the most conformable suspension setup you can get. So it can be used for that vs slamming your car. You also have the practically of raising your car when needed and with the correct air management system it will always keep the car at the same height no matter how many people or how much you put in the trunk.

I'm looking into it for my XI wagon

Sent from my iPhone using E46Fanatics

bmw9 · Mar 14, 2018

I did hear air suspension has problems though, doesn't last a long time, and has higher maintenance costs with more chances something can go wrong. Basically, an unnecessary added expense.

probably will not do any more mods to my e46, it's good as it is.

just curious.

Air suspension on E46?

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