BMW Control Arm Replacements & Upgrades
This package covers the front control arms and bushings on the 2001-2005 E46 325Xi and 330Xi. These cars use a unique front suspension but the principle design – and downside – is the same as almost all of the BMW 3-series since 1984. The inner and outer ball joints see a lot of wear as they are constantly in motion. With the heavy front end of the 4WD Xi, these components need frequent inspection and replacement. When the bushings and ball joints fail, the front end can shimmy and feel loose through the steering wheel. Excess play in the rubber bushings can cause alignment problems and sloppy steering. There is usually a knocking or clunking sound to further annoy you. We've assembled this
package to replace everything on both front control arms and restore your BMW's exceptional driving dynamics. All parts are OEM Boge, Lemforder, or Original BMW to maintain the highest quality standard.
This kit includes the following parts:
• LEFT FRONT CONTROL ARM, part# 31126758533 / 31 12 6 758 533
• RIGHT FRONT CONTROL ARM, part# 31126758534 / 31 12 6 758 534
• CONTROL ARM BUSHINGS (pair), part# 31129063163 / 31 12 9 063 163
• LEFT FRONT INNER BALL JOINT, part# 31126756695 / 31 12 6 756 695
• RIGHT FRONT INNER BALL JOINT, part# 31126756696 / 31 12 6 756 696
As an option, we can pre-install the control arm bushings into new brackets for you. This normally requires much haggling and frustration without the proper hydraulic press. But in our Service shop, we can assemble everything for you so your parts will be ready to bolt on as soon as they arrive on your doorstep! (sorry, no returns accepted on pre-assembly labor fee, please)
Part #: E46XI-CONTROL-ARMS
Price: $660.73 (USD)
Trouble with your front suspension can ruin your ride and handling and potentially be unsafe. The rubber bushings and ball joints are designed to take abuse. But by 50,000 miles they will be showing signs of wear. Most state inspections will check ball joint and wheel play and your control arms and tie rods can lead to a failure if they're worn. Our front suspension refresh package covers all of the major wear items that would need to be replaced, including -This package is made up of aftermarket OEM alternative parts that come with a 2-year warranty. They use the same designs as the original BMW parts on your car so they meet OEM standards for fitment and operation. We have compared these parts to the Genuine BMW and OEM brands and found few differences. This package is an unbeatable money-saving bundle to restore your E46's precise handling and steering. We also offer all of the OE or OEM brands if you are more comfortable with those levels of quality and performance or are planning to track or autocross your car (the cast components of the aftermarket kit will not be as good as the OEM parts on the track).
This item fits the following BMWs:
1999-2005 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 328i 328ci 330i 330ci
Part #: E46-CONTROL-ARM-REFRESH-AFMKT
Price: $399.95 (USD)
This E46 325Xi/330Xi front control arm is a direct replacement for the original part and is the OEM Lemforder brand. The E46 Xi front control is a special design borrowed from the E34 525Xi (sold in Europe) but still similar to other E46 cars. Therefore, it still suffers the same ball joint issues as the other 3-series models.
Control arms, and the associated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.
On the Xi we also recommend replacing the inner ball joints and rear bushings when changing the control arms. The ball joints are designed to be replaced separately and the bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm. Both are high-wear parts and easily replaced with the control arm off the car.
This item fits the following BMWs:
2001-2005 E46 BMW 325xi 330xi
Part #: 31126758533
Price: $221.33 (USD)
This E36 or Z3 front control arm is a direct replacement for the original part and is the OEM Lemforder brand.
Control arms, and their integrated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.
We also recommend replacing the bushings when changing the control arms. The bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm and located the arm to the frame rail on the car. The stock bushings are rubber and will wear out sooner than the control arms themselves. With the control arm off the car now is the perfect time to also replace the bushings.
This item fits the following BMWs:
2001-2006 E46 BMW M3
Part #: 31122229453
Price: $299.00 (USD)
This E46 front control arm is a direct replacement for the original part and is the OEM Lemforder brand.
Control arms, and their integrated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.
We also recommend replacing the bushings when changing the control arms. The bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm and located the arm to the frame rail on the car. The stock bushings are rubber and will wear out sooner than the control arms themselves. With the control arm off the car now is the perfect time to also replace the bushings.
This item fits the following BMWs:
1999-2006 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 328i 328ci 330i 330ci
2003-2008 E85 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si
Part #: 31126758519
Price: $179.95 (USD)
This E46 325Xi/330Xi front control arm is a direct replacement for the original part and is the OEM Lemforder brand. The E46 Xi front control is a special design borrowed from the E34 525Xi (sold in Europe) but still similar to other E46 cars. Therefore, it still suffers the same ball joint issues as the other 3-series models.
Control arms, and the associated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.
On the Xi we also recommend replacing the inner ball joints and rear bushings when changing the control arms. The ball joints are designed to be replaced separately and the bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm. Both are high-wear parts and easily replaced with the control arm off the car.
This item fits the following BMWs:
2001-2005 E46 BMW 325xi 330xi
Part #: 31126758534
Price: $221.33 (USD)
This E46 M3 front control arm is a direct replacement for the original part and is the OEM Lemforder brand.
Control arms, and their integrated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.
We also recommend replacing the bushings when changing the control arms. The bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm and located the arm to the frame rail on the car. The stock bushings are rubber and will wear out sooner than the control arms themselves. With the control arm off the car now is the perfect time to also replace the bushings.
This item fits the following BMWs:
2001-2006 E46 BMW M3
Part #: 31122229454
Price: $299.00 (USD)
This E46 or Z4 front control arm is a direct replacement for the original part and is the OEM Lemforder brand.
Control arms, and their integrated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.
We also recommend replacing the bushings when changing the control arms. The bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm and located the arm to the frame rail on the car. The stock bushings are rubber and will wear out sooner than the control arms themselves. With the control arm off the car now is the perfect time to also replace the bushings.
This item fits the following BMWs:
1999-2006 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 328i 328ci 330i 330ci
2003-2008 E85 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si
Part #: 31126758520
Price: $179.95 (USD)
One common weak point in the E46 3-series model range is in the mounting and ball joints of the suspension. The front suspension ball joints in particular are prone to wearing out quite quickly thanks to a soft material, leaving you in a potentially dangerous situation. At best, worn ball joints and bushings will give you poor steering feedback and clunking noises. However, loose or worn ball joints will have excessive play which will reduce the effectiveness of the steering and suspension. In extreme cases, the ball joint has been known to pop free of the control arm, resulting in total steering loss. Meyle has addressed this problem with metal ball joints, similar to those used on the E46 ZHP. The metal in the HD joint will not wear or fatigue nearly as fast as the standard ball joints. The lifespan is greatly extended. The lack of play will mean sharper steering, restoring much of the car's precision and fun-to-drive character. Meyle is a German brand in business since 1958 and all of their products are TUV approved and meet or exceed ISO standards.
This item fits the following BMWs:
1999-2005 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 328i 328ci 330i 330ci - not for xi models
2003-2008 E85 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si
Part #: 31126758519MY
Price: $184.95 (USD)
One common weak point in the E46 3-series model range is in the mounting and ball joints of the suspension. The front suspension ball joints in particular are prone to wearing out quite quickly thanks to a soft material, leaving you in a potentially dangerous situation. At best, worn ball joints and bushings will give you poor steering feedback and clunking noises. However, loose or worn ball joints will have excessive play which will reduce the effectiveness of the steering and suspension. In extreme cases, the ball joint has been known to pop free of the control arm, resulting in total steering loss. Meyle has addressed this problem with metal ball joints, similar to those used on the E46 ZHP. The metal in the HD joint will not wear or fatigue nearly as fast as the standard ball joints. The lifespan is greatly extended. The lack of play will mean sharper steering, restoring much of the car's precision and fun-to-drive character. Meyle is a German brand in business since 1958 and all of their products are TUV approved and meet or exceed ISO standards.
This item fits the following BMWs:
1999-2005 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 328i 328ci 330i 330ci - not for xi models
2003-2008 E85 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si
Part #: 31126758520MY
Price: $184.95 (USD)
LemforderThis control arm upgrade was used on the high-performance 330i ZHP Performance Package and offered by BMW as a sport retrofit. These arms are identical dimensions as the regular arms so they are a direct replacement. But they have all metal ball joints instead of plastic or rubber. This means they last a lot longer and are much stronger. We used these in our Grand Am and World Challenge E46 racecars with excellent performance.
Control arms, and their integrated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.
We also recommend replacing the bushings when changing the control arms. The bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm and located the arm to the frame rail on the car. The stock bushings are rubber and will wear out sooner than the control arms themselves. With the control arm off the car now is the perfect time to also replace the bushings.
Lemforder is the original equipment supplier to BMW for these control arms.
This item fits the following BMWs:
1999-2006 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 328i 328ci 330i 330ci
2003-2008 Z4 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si Z4 M Roadster M Coupe
Part #: 31122282121-LEM
Price: $259.95 (USD)
LemforderThis control arm upgrade was used on the high-performance 330i ZHP Performance Package and offered by BMW as a sport retrofit. These arms are identical dimensions as the regular arms so they are a direct replacement. But they have all metal ball joints instead of plastic or rubber. This means they last a lot longer and are much stronger. We used these in our Grand Am and World Challenge E46 racecars with excellent performance.
Control arms, and their integrated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.
We also recommend replacing the bushings when changing the control arms. The bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm and located the arm to the frame rail on the car. The stock bushings are rubber and will wear out sooner than the control arms themselves. With the control arm off the car now is the perfect time to also replace the bushings.
Lemforder is the original equipment supplier to BMW for these control arms.
This item fits the following BMWs:
1999-2006 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 328i 328ci 330i 330ci
2003-2008 Z4 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si Z4 M Roadster M Coupe
Part #: 31122282122-LEM
Price: $259.95 (USD)
Genuine BMWThis is the factory BMW control arm upgrade used on the high-performance 330i ZHP Performance Package and offered by BMW as a sport retrofit. These arms are identical dimensions as the regular arms so they are a direct replacement. But they have all metal ball joints instead of plastic or rubber. This means they last a lot longer and are much stronger. We used these in our Grand Am and World Challenge E46 racecars with excellent performance.
Control arms, and their integrated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.
We also recommend replacing the bushings when changing the control arms. The bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm and located the arm to the frame rail on the car. The stock bushings are rubber and will wear out sooner than the control arms themselves. With the control arm off the car now is the perfect time to also replace the bushings.
This item fits the following BMWs:
1999-2006 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 328i 328ci 330i 330ci
2003-2008 Z4 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si Z4 M Roadster M Coupe
Part #: 31122282121
Price: $329.95 (USD)
Genuine BMWThis is the factory BMW control upgrade used on the high-performance 330i ZHP Performance Package and offered by BMW as a sport retrofit. These arms are identical dimensions as the regular arms so they are a direct replacement. But they have all metal ball joints instead of plastic or rubber. This means they last a lot longer and are much stronger. We used these in our Grand Am and World Challenge E46 racecars with excellent performance.
Control arms, and their integrated ball joints, are some of the most crucial components on a BMW suspension. The control arms literally control the wheel and suspension as they go through their range of motions. A faulty or worn control arm or ball joint is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening problem so make sure they are inspected and replaced at regular intervals. For a street-driven car we advise yearly inspection and a full replacement every 3-4 years. For track-driven cars these should be inspected before every event and replaced every two years.
We also recommend replacing the bushings when changing the control arms. The bushings are mounted at the back of the control arm and located the arm to the frame rail on the car. The stock bushings are rubber and will wear out sooner than the control arms themselves. With the control arm off the car now is the perfect time to also replace the bushings.
This item fits the following BMWs:
1999-2006 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 328i 328ci 330i 330ci
2003-2008 Z4 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si Z4 M Roadster M Coupe
Part #: 31122282122
Price: $329.95 (USD)
Top seller! The Turner Adjustable Rear Camber Arms: The Only Adjustable Arms Approved for Grand-Am Continental Tire Challenge Racing Series
Why you should use Turner Motorsport camber arms on your car:
| End Type | Street | Track | BMW CCA Prepared Legal |
Easy Adjustment |
Bushing Life |
Replaceable/ Rebuildable |
Ride Comfort |
Bushing Deflection |
Friction |
| Rod-End | X | X | X | X | Medium | Yes | Medium | None | Lowest |
| Rubber Bushing | X | X | X | X | Long | Yes | Excellent | High | Highest |
Installation Instructions:
Instructions for Rod-End Style (TSU9940001) Instructions for Bushing-End Style (TSU9940B77)
Part #: TSU9940X
Price: $299.95 (USD)
E36/E46/Z4, including M models, rear lower control arm (camber arm, wishbone). This is a direct replacement for the stock arm and includes the inner bushing. These arms are designed to be slightly weak and flimsy as they will absorb impact energy. It's better for this arm to absorb an impact rather than the wheel or trailing arm, or subframe, etc. Also, unknowing tow truck drivers like to use this part to hook their chains on to. Consequently they bend as easily as a coat hanger.
Part #: 33321138380
Price: $69.95 (USD)
Designed and built in-house at BMW Motorsport, these are stock rear camber arms from the E36 M3 that have been strengthened by welding a reinforment in between the wishbones. Stiffer than the stock units and still adjustable for camber. This arm is legal in many racing classes where an aftermarket arm is not permitted. Sold individually, two required per car.
For maximum adjustment solid aluminum camber arms, you may also want to check out our TMS E36/E46 Adjustable Rear Camber Arms.
This arm does not include a bushing, but you may choose add a bushing using the drop down below. For an additional charge, you can get the bushing pre-pressed into the arm, so it is ready to install on the car (no added shop time or hydraulic press required).
Part #: 33327749778N
Price: $149.95 (USD)