BMW Control Arm Replacements & Upgrades for BMW E46 M3 S54 (1999-2005)

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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. They do more than just keep the alignment in a constant spec - they are a vital locating component for the suspension itself. 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.

Most control arms for BMWs consist of an inner and outer ball joint made of plastic, rubber, Delrin, or metal and covered in grease with a rubber boot to seal it from the outside. The ball joint rotates and spins as the control arm goes through its movements and that will wear the ball joint and make it loose. The grease inside the housing can also get used up, evaporate, or become contaminated from moisture and foreign particles. As the ball joint becomes worn it can result in excess movement within the housing. Your steering and handling will become less precise and there is usually a light clunking or clicking sound. In rare and extreme cases the ball joint can separate from the control arm completely, leading to a total loss of suspension and steering control. You should have the ball joint play checked annually and replace them every 3-4 years. Most track organizations will not allow a car if they are older than three years.

Control arms also take abuse from impacts and handling forces. Aluminum control arms will generally bend and prevent an accurate alignment. Steel control arms will crack and fracture and require close inspection annually and replacement every 3-4 years.

We sell OE BMW, OEM, and performance upgrade control arms from proven manufacturers. The control arm is so important to a BMW suspension that we insist on only top quality brands and designs and will never sell a control arm based on price alone. We also have upgrade packages with superior designs and better bushing options and we have bundled these together with valuable package savings.

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Turner Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:2105
Part#: TMS-FCAB-E46M3
Ships in 8 Business Days
Sale - Save 3% $ 364.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
06-13-2026

$ 354.04 USD
Free Shipping
Sale - Save 3%
$ 364.99

This product was last offered at the strikethrough price on
06-13-2026

$ 354.04 USD
Free Shipping

Factory bushings are more than adequate for street driving on the E46 M3. However, once the miles start to pile up, the bushings are meant to be replaced. Common side effects of worn factory FCABs include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Steering wheel shutter when brakes are applied
  • Wheel (and steering wheel) shimmy
  • Mysterious and irregular tire wear
  • "Overboosted" steering feel (very light steering)

Replacing with new factory bushings will return the factory feel. These urethane core bushings, however, offer something MORE. These bushings are designed to deliver performance that surpasses the stock E46 M3 bushing, while still allowing them to be used in everyday driving scenarios on public roads.

With the numerous delrin/urethane/hybrid replacement bushings in the market, we wanted to offer bushings that were not only effective, but simple. No clips, no washers, no multiple sleeves, and no "race parts in street cars". They have an aluminum outer sleeve with a replaceable, compliant urethane core that is serviceable and rebuildable. These urethane inserts prevent unwanted control arm deflection, while allowing noise/vibration/harshness (NVH) isolation -- a must on any bushing being used on a street driven car. And because of their compliance they remain very comfortable for daily use. But because they are a heavier-duty design than stock, these eliminate steering shimmy and wander, especially with the addition of big brake upgrades. They maintain BMW's original suspension geometry, and give your M3 a directly "connected" feeling with the front end of the vehicle. Perhaps best of all, these bushings are easy to install and are designed for longevity. Professional installation on suspension components is always recommended.

Installation Instructions

This item fits the following BMWs:
2001-2006 E46 BMW M3

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Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:577342
Part#: 311222294534KT3
Ships in 3 Business Days
$ 1,455.99 USD
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$ 1,455.99 USD
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Genuine BMW Motorsport - Corporate Logo
T#:338369
Part#: 33327749778
Ships on Oct 28, 2026
Starting at $ 198.94 USD
Free Shipping
Starting at $ 198.94 USD
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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).

Sold Individually.
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Genuine BMW - Corporate Logo
T#:372570
Part#: 31122229624KT3
Ships on Mar 19, 2027
$ 3,140.99 USD
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$ 3,140.99 USD
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BMW E46 M3 Front Suspension Refresh Kit by ECS Tuning is designed to restore and enhance your BMW’s suspension for a smooth and precise driving experience. This Level 2 refresh kit addresses common suspension wear issues and includes upgraded components to provide superior performance and extend the life of your BMW E46 M3’s suspension system.

  • Restores precision steering feel and eliminates shaking or vibrations during braking
  • Reduces squeaking, whining, or grinding noises from the front suspension, improving ride quality
  • Includes upgraded components that provide better-than-new performance for long-lasting results
  • Complete kit with essential parts, including control arms, bushings, sway bar end links, tie rod assemblies, and strut mounts
  • Strut mount reinforcement plates included to prevent strut tower deformation and cracking
  • Engineered for BMW E46 M3 models, ensuring seamless fitment and reliable performance

For those looking to improve their BMW E46 M3’s suspension beyond factory specifications, this refresh kit offers enhanced durability, stability, and handling, keeping your ride safe and smooth on the road.

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