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E86 3.0si suspension set-up from new

G

GJ1

Member
Just been reading various old suspension threads and I think I have read that some have m-sport suspension (& some not).
So how do you tell what suspension set-up is on the car (from new)? I purchased the car when it was on low mileage and haven't replaced any struts/shocks or springs in my ownership so will presume they are original.
 
There were only two trim levels, SE and Sport.

I think it's as simple as the sport suspension is definitely fitted to the Sport models. SE is less obvious as I believe the sport suspension was an option. But according to your sig you have a Sport, so there's your answer :thumbsup:
 
Thanks Jamie. Certainly makes sense!
I note you're using the bilstein b12s. What were you using before and how would you say they compare? Thinking it's about time I refreshed the suspension but not sure whether to go sachs or bilstein b4/6/8s.
 
Unless whoever ordered it unticked the M Sport suspension. Unlikely but there are a few out there.

Best way to find out and what other options are fitted is to put your vin into an online decoder and it will tell you the full spec.
 
Do you know of any vindecoders currently working. Tried a couple and they weren't working. Also seen a few threads on them not being available.
Cheers.
 
GJ1 said:
Do you know of any vindecoders currently working. Tried a couple and they weren't working. Also seen a few threads on them not being available.
Cheers.
Click to expand...

Same question! I haven't managed to get a single one to work for me recently. However it was brilliant when I bought my Zed.
 
Firstly, re vin info, I find the following link useful for all E85/6 Si's and M's... http://perso.numericable.fr/tonyz4c/index30si.html

Just put the last 7 digits of your vin into the first column of the table then click on your model to bring up the info. 'S704A M Sports Suspension' should be included in the list if you have sport suspension.

GJ1 said:
Thanks Jamie. Certainly makes sense!
I note you're using the bilstein b12s. What were you using before and how would you say they compare? Thinking it's about time I refreshed the suspension but not sure whether to go sachs or bilstein b4/6/8s.
Click to expand...

The B12 kit is specifically for those who place the handling and ride height of their Z4 above comfort! Because I only use my car as a weekend toy and will most likely take it to a track a few times a year, it suits me fine. If you have a bad back I wouldn't recommend it!
 
JamieZ4C said:
Firstly, re vin info, I find the following link useful for all E85/6 Si's and M's... http://perso.numericable.fr/tonyz4c/index30si.html

Just put the last 7 digits of your vin into the first column of the table then click on your model to bring up the info. 'S704A M Sports Suspension' should be included in the list if you have sport suspension.

GJ1 said:
Thanks Jamie. Certainly makes sense!
I note you're using the bilstein b12s. What were you using before and how would you say they compare? Thinking it's about time I refreshed the suspension but not sure whether to go sachs or bilstein b4/6/8s.
Click to expand...

The B12 kit is specifically for those who place the handling and ride height of their Z4 above comfort! Because I only use my car as a weekend toy and will most likely take it to a track a few times a year, it suits me fine. If you have a bad back I wouldn't recommend it!
Click to expand...

Bingo. Thanks shows the M Sports suspension. :D
First vin decoder I have used and has worked so :thumbsup:

Yes I think the B12 kit might be too harsh for me. Do you know what kit is most like the M sports suspension I'd like to refresh? Not sure if the b4s are more SE spec than m sports spec.
 
GJ1 said:
Bingo. Thanks shows the M Sports suspension. :D
First vin decoder I have used and has worked so :thumbsup:

Yes I think the B12 kit might be too harsh for me. Do you know what kit is most like the M sports suspension I'd like to refresh? Not sure if the b4s are more SE spec than m sports spec.
Click to expand...

Excellent, glad I was of help :thumbsup:

I'm led to believe the B4 is most similar to M Sport, but I'm not 100% so don't take my word for it!
 
I did a full suspension refresh a few years back- i fitted Suplex springs (recommended as less prone to snapping like the BMW originals), and Bilstein B4 dampers.

The ride height is equivalent to M Sport but, more compliant and regarded as a better set-up.

I also tightened up the front end with new Myle drop-links and poly bushed front and rear anti-roll bars. Along with the specialist realignment for a fast road set-up, it all made a huge difference!

The original dampers were pretty much done- and that was at circa 60,000 miles!
 
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