Understanding E46 AWD Coilovers and Choosing the Best Setup

Understanding E46 AWD Coilovers

The BMW E46 3-series was produced from 1998 to 2006 and offered sedan, coupe, convertible and wagon body styles. Many E46 enthusiasts choose to modify their suspension for improved handling and performance. One popular upgrade is installing coilovers, which replace the stock shock absorbers and springs.

Coilovers allow owners to adjust the ride height of their E46 for an aggressive lowered stance. They also provide adjustable damping which improves road holding and handling. For E46 owners looking to enhance performance, installing e46 awd coilovers is an effective upgrade.

Benefits of AWD Coilovers on E46

The biggest benefit of e46 awd coilovers is the ability to lower all four wheels evenly while retaining full all-wheel drive functionality. Lowering only the front or rear suspension on an AWD car can cause damage to the drivetrain.

AWD coilovers are specifically designed to work with the complexities of an all-wheel drive system. They allow lowering the center of gravity for better cornering and acceleration without affecting AWD performance.

Considerations When Choosing E46 AWD Coilovers

When selecting e46 awd coilovers, you first need to determine your performance goals. Track-focused coilovers provide the maximum amount of adjustability but trade some ride quality and everyday comfort.

Daily driven AWD E46s need a more balanced coilover that offers moderate adjustability while retaining a comfortable ride. Determine how much you are willing to compromise daily driving comfort for cornering performance.

Installing E46 AWD Coilovers

While they offer great performance benefits, installing coilovers on an AWD vehicle is more complex than on a rear-wheel or front-wheel drive car. Due to the additional drivetrain components, the installation process requires removal of more parts to access the shock towers and front suspension areas.

AWD systems have more sensors and components in the way requiring a more advanced installation. For these reasons, it's advisable for most owners to have a professional shop install e46 awd coilovers. An experienced BMW technician will ensure proper adjustment and positioning of all sensors and parts.

Choosing the Best E46 AWD Coilovers

With so many coilover options on the market, choosing the best set for your needs can feel overwhelming. To simplify the process, keep these key factors in mind:

• Intended use – track days require maximum adjustability while daily drivers need better ride quality
• Construction quality – avoid cheap designs prone to premature failure
• Reputable brand – stick with industry leaders known for high-performance coilovers
• Tuning complexity – factor in the need for post-install alignment, corner balancing and tuning
• Budget – coilovers range widely in price from around $800 up to $5000 or more

By carefully weighing these criteria against your goals, you can select high quality e46 awd coilovers to maximize your AWD E46's potential while staying confident they will perform reliably for years to come.

Maintaining Your E46 AWD Coilovers

While today's high-end coilovers are built for longevity and performance, they still require periodic maintenance and inspection. It's important to frequently check for any fluid leaks and have the units thoroughly inspected anytime wheel alignment or suspension work is performed.

Most manufacturers recommend a rebuild of the shock absorbers every 50,000-70,000 miles depending on use. This helps prevent premature failure of seals and moving components. Follow all factory prescribed service intervals for mounting hardware, bushings and ball joints as well.

Properly maintained e46 awd coilovers should provide years of enhanced performance, handling and driving enjoyment. Respecting rebuild intervals and fixing any issues promptly preserves your investment while ensuring safety.

FAQs

Do I need a professional shop to install e46 awd coilovers?

Yes, it is highly recommended to have a professional BMW technician install awd coilovers. The complex AWD system and additional sensors make this an advanced installation best left to experienced mechanics.

How much lowering is safe on my e46 AWD?

Most experts recommend limiting overall lowering to no more than 2 inches on an AWD E46. Going lower than this can over-stress critical drivetrain components leading to premature failure.

Will lowering my e46's ride height hurt gas mileage?

There may be a slight fuel economy penalty from lowering due to the change in aerodynamics and drivetrain angles. However for most driving conditions this decrease should be relatively small.

What maintenance do awd coilovers require?

Plan to have the shock absorbers rebuilt every 50,000-70,000 miles. Also inspect regularly for leaks and have bushings, ball joints and mounting hardware checked whenever servicing suspension.