Table of Contents:

I Introduction

II Both Axles

Shocks/Struts

Springs

Coilovers

Wheel Bearings

Sway Bars (Anti-Roll Bars)

III Front Axle

Front Axle Diagram/Overview

Control Arms

Lower/Front Control Arm Bushing (LCAB/FCAB)

Strut Mounts

Tie Rods

IV Rear Axle

Rear Axle Diagram/Overview

Rear Trailing Arm Bushings (RTAB)

Trailing Arm Bushings

Camber Arm/Rear Lower Control Arm

Subframe/Differential Bushings

Rear Shock Mounts (RSM)

V Suspension Kits

VI Technical Discussions

The Tire as a Critical Suspension Component

Helpful Links

Spacers Guide

E36 M3 Alignment Guide
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I – Introduction:

This FAQ was designed for anybody interested in E36 suspension.

Organization is by axle. Each specific item contains a description, and BMW OE part numbers. Some components also include a failure mode description. Note that only major components are covered. Small bolts, nuts, and interconnecting pieces are not referenced. I suggest www.realoem.com for locating specific things.

I use the word OBD1 M3 to describe the 1995 US model year M3 with the S50B30 engine. OBD2 M3 to describe 1996-1999 US model year M3s with the S52B32 engine. 3-Series to describe 328, 325, 323, 318 i, si, ic, and ti cars with M50, M52, and M4x series engines. This guide is focused on US spec cars, although much of this information no doubt applies to the world market as well. Also perhaps, but not necessarily, applicable to the E36-based Z3 Roadster and Coupe

Look at the dash cowl that shades the top of the guage cluster from below. You will see two torx screws at approx. 10 and 2. These take a T15 torx bit. It is a tight fit and the easiest way to access them is with a torx bit socket and a small wratchet. These are the only thing holding the guage cluster in.

You can see the location here:

What have people done regarding suspension mods that will work with the EDC–I assume Dinan and some others? I would be interested in how the car feels and turns in with a stiffer, lowered suspension.

Slide the seat back to reveal the front nuts.
You will see black plastic caps to cover them.

Despite having no extra weight, and despite the fact that my girlfriend is the primary driver of this car (with a very moderate driving style), we’re only getting 16mpg!

Granted, all of our driving is stop-and-go in downtown San Francisco, but has anyone else experience such horrible gas mileage?

Our prior car was an E36 (1996 328i 5-speed), and under the same driving conditions, it got at least 20+mpg. I thought for sure that the 128i would get the same or better mileage. Even my E34 (1995 540i 6-speed), which has a thirsty V-8, gets 16 mpg!

What gives? Any advice?

Click here to view the embedded video.

Direct YouTube link: 3 Series BMW Instrument Cluster test.