The fourth iteration of the BMW 3 Series compact car lineage is classified under the model code E46, handcrafted by the esteemed German automaker BMW during the years 1997 to 2006, succeeding the E36 3 Series which concluded its production in 2000.
Debuted in November 1997, the E46 featured a range of body styles including sedan, coupe, convertible, station wagon, and hatchback, with the latter being positioned and named as the 3 Series Compact.
The M3 performance model debuted in June 2000 with a 2-door coupe body style, and later introduced a convertible version in April 2001.
The M3 is driven by the BMW S54 straight-six engine with a choice of a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed SMG-II automated manual transmission.
The E46 lineup underwent phase-out commencing late 2004, concurrent with the debut of the E90 3 Series saloons.
Yet, the E46 coupe and convertible body styles endured in production until August 2006.
The E46 utilizes a McPherson strut suspension with divorced rear springs and dampers.
At MGC Suspensions we sell aftermarket suspension and exhaust upgrades to help E46 enthusiasts modify and improve their cars and make them all their own.
The best suspension upgrade for BMW E46 owners to begin with is a set of coilovers.
Choosing a kit that matches how you use your car is paramount to an improved driving experience, and more importantly, it is the key to not spending too much on a kit you don't really need.
If you need product recommendations for your car use our Suspension Builder guide. Personalized suggestions based on your goals and budget.
We can recommend the best BMW E46 coilovers and other supporting parts.
Below we will list 6 best coilover kits for BMW E46 that have different features and price points. Some are good for mild daily drivers, while others can be used on track day. A couple can do it all!
At the end we will show 2 great kits well under 1,000.
1. ST X Coilovers
Fits sedan, coupe, and wagon.
Looking for a high quality set of coilovers but don't want to spend a fortune?
ST suspension, crafted to KW's exacting standards by KW, presents this exceptional introductory choice.
ST height adjustable coilover kits are precision engineered and road tested to the highest standards of the German TUV.
Sport dampers valved per vehicle, with stiffer progressive coil springs, will elevate handling, cornering, and feedback.
Expertly crafted suspension systems for ultimate ride control.
Set the stance exactly the way you like.
Immersed in premium corrosion-resistant materials, these galvanized steel and powder coated coilovers ensure a lifetime of impeccable performance in all environments.
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Height-adjustable
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Composite spring plate
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Dust protection and bump stop
2. KW V1 Coilovers
Fits E46 3-Series sedan, coupe, wagon, convertible, and hatchback.
This is KW's introductory coilover selection, however, do not confuse it with a commonplace, factory-made set that lacks the precision and craftsmanship tailored specifically to your E46.
With an average 30-70mm (1.2-2.7 Inches) of lowering range, KW's V1 kits have preconfigured shock damping and spring rates for each application, giving a perfect balance between comfort and improved suspension performance.
Experience unmatched durability with stainless steel shock bodies & powder coated coil springs.
The trapezoidal shock body threads, designed for optimal friction reduction and dirt repellence, facilitate effortless height adjustments with minimal force, ensuring long-lasting ease of use.
Enjoy a big improvement in handling and a lower stance you'll love with the affordable V1 coilover kit from KW.
KW is the gold standard in performance coilovers.
3. H&R Street Performance Coilovers![H&R 99-05 BMW 323i/325i/328i/330i E46 Street Perf. Coil Over - MGC Suspensions]()
0.5-2.2 Inches (12.7-55.8 mm) front lowering range.
0.5-1.5 Inches (12.7-38 mm) rear lowering range.
Experience the difference a set of H&R street performance coilovers can make.
Tailor valved, high-performance shocks paired with progressive coil springs tuned exclusively for your E46, providing a substantial enhancement in handling, cornering, and road sensation.
The H&R street performance coilover kit offers an excellent balance between improved handling and daily driver comfort.
Finely threaded shock bodies and supplied spanner wrenches make ride height adjustments quick and easy when the wheels are off.
Transform the suspension setup and driving experience of your BMW with H&R coilovers.
Engineered and manufactured to the highest standards to fit and perform perfectly.
For a more affordable, non-adjustable upgrade click here.
BMW E46 coilovers at MGC.
4. Ohlins Road & Track Coilovers
Seeking the finest coilovers for your BMW E46 M3? Ohlins stands as a compelling choice.
The Ohlins Road and Track series coilover kits showcase the cutting-edge single tube shocks incorporating through-rod damper setup and Ohlins' exclusive Dual Flow Valve (DFV) technology, enabling adjustment of shock absorber stiffness.
These coilovers are lightweight and corrosion resistant, ensuring a lifetime of high performance with a two-year limited warranty.
Ohlins dampers boast a singular knob controlling both compression and rebound adjusters, finely calibrated and offering preload customization.
Adjusting the knob changes all four areas in the damper; low and high speed compression and rebound damping.
Ride height is easily changed with finely threaded shock bodies and smooth moving collars so you can set the stance exactly where you want.
The best suspension brands for BMW E46 M3 are at MGC.
5. KW V2 Street Comfort Coilovers
Fits Sedan, Coupe, Wagon, Convertible, and Hatchback; 2WD. Fits 2001-06 M3.
KW street comfort coilovers video
This Street Comfort kit matches KW's classic V2 adjustable coilovers, but with a softer tuning for ultimate street comfort.
The KW Street Comfort coilovers embody a sophisticated blend of cutting-edge technology and exquisite design, allowing for customizable lowering while delivering unparalleled driving comfort.
The lowering, depending on the application, is from 5-45 mm. Therefore it offers a perfect look, with the best possible driving behavior.
Extensive motorways and swiftly traversed country lanes will prove delightful for any driver.
KW street comfort in stainless steel inox-line technology is crafted specifically for discerning drivers seeking comfort, superior driving performance, and a subtle yet personalized lowering.
This set is 16-click rebound adjustable with the simple turn of a dial, allowing for easy customization of ride firmness.
Features:
Maximum driving comfort for daily drivers.
Coilover struts in lightweight, corrosion resistant stainless steel.
TÜV tested lowering on front and rear axle from 5-45 mm.
Trapezoid shaped shock body threads for easy height adjustment.
High-quality materials for durability and long service life.
Adjustable rebound damping.
Includes detailed installation instructions and documentation for easy use.
Also available: BMW E46 3-series lowering springs by Vogtland. The most cost effective way to ge the lowered stance and better handling you want.
6. AST 5300 Series Coilovers
A quick look at all AST coilover options. Choose the kit that's right for you.
A track focused coilover setup that can still be used on the street if desired.
Kits comprise solid top mounts and remote fluid reservoirs with tuning dials for damping adjustment.
If required, sway bar drop links and any additional hardware will be included in the kit.
Individual dials for precise adjustments of rebound, along with low and high speed compression damping.
The high speed compression is adjustable in 12 positions and the low speed compression is adjustable in 14 positions. Both compression adjustments are made using an external canister. All damping adjusters work completely independent.
Post installation, the shock absorbers can be easily set up, boasting high reliability and requiring minimal maintenance due to the superior quality of materials employed.
Tested on tracks like the Nürburgring, Zandvoort, Imola, Laguna Seca, Macau and many others around the world.
Product Highlights:
- 3-Way Adjustable, separate rebound and low & hi speed compression adjustable with a remote reservoir. The positions give clear feedback with each adjustment, each offering a different driving experience.
- Inverted strut design to cope with (heavy) side load and braking loads.
- In some cases a non inverted system is used.
- Improved handling and consistent performance due to monotube technology.
- Ride height adjustable.
- Gas pressurized.
- Includes AST noise free top mounts or camber plates.
Our 6 favorite coilover kits for the BMW E46 and E46 M3.
If you are on a budget and still want to upgrade your suspension or simply need to replace old, worn out shocks here are 2 great kits that can help.
1. Bilstein B12 Suspension Kit
Are you looking for an affordable suspension kit?
Want to lower your car and replace high mileage, worn out shocks at the same time?
This Bilstein B12 lowering suspension kit is the solution.
It's the perfect combination of performance parts from 2 legendary brands.
Bilstein started with a set of their performance B8 dampers, then called on Eibach for some of their comfortable, progressive rate lowering springs.
The dampers and springs are engineered and matched per vehicle, with proper compression, rebound, and spring rates, for a perfect balance of performance and comfort.
Tasteful lowering of up to 40mm (1.6 inches) for an aggressive, noticeable drop in stance that is still daily driver friendly.
Experience much improved handling, response, and turn-in without the ride being harsh or bumpy.
These packages provide exceptional value and serve as an excellent entryway into a cost-conscious suspension enhancement endeavor.
The best suspension kits for BMW E46 at MGC.
2. Vogtland Club Suspension Kit
