BMW Suspension Parts for BMW 3 Series E46 (1999-2005)

Tasked with keeping the vehicles rear end firmly mounted while absorbing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) factory rubber subframe bushings were engineered to provide a balance of control while keeping the ride quality soft and supple. As a factory bushings age, they become brittle and begin to harden. When this happens the bushing will actually shrink and allow excess play, or movement in the subframe. This is typically felt by a sudden jerk or "thunking" noise under acceleration and is a leading cause of "sloppy" or "loose" suspension feel. By replacing the bushings with full polyurethane this play is eliminated since the subframe is being held in place by a much stiffer material that will not harden or shrink over time. Additionally, the inherent stiffness of the urethane material translates body forces much more directly. This means steering and acceleration inputs from the driver are effectively transferred to the wheels and vital road information is transmitted properly from the wheels to the driver. 

Powerflex street bushings are ideal for street driven vehicles and those that see occasional autocross or track time. Need bushings for a dedicated track car? Engineered to perform, Powerflex performance polyurethane bushings offer a supreme level of control, while still providing enough comfort for the street, with advanced polyurethane that reduces NVH that often accompanies lesser bushings. Expect improved steering feel, turn in, more responsive handling and overall improved chassis composure with Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm bushings.

Poweflex is a leading manufacturer of aftermarket suspension bushings. Using state of the art design and manufacturing, all replacement bushings are engineered to out-perform and out-last the ones that came in the car. Each line of bushings is meticulously tested and then re-tested to ensure perfect fitment and enduring quality through the life of the vehicle. A full lifetime warranty backs every one of their products and demonstrates the level of confidence and commitment Powerflex has to their customers. 

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.

OEM Lemförder is an engineering company that focuses on high-quality, precision manufacturing of critical suspension and steering components. Providing exceptionally high quality parts directly to BMW, as well as 50+ other big name automotive companies, such as Mercedes and Audi, their history of reliability and variety of offered parts makes them one of the biggest names for a go-to OEM parts provider. Lemförder parts place an important emphasis on design, production, and assembly, ensuring maximum reliability. They even coat all parts possible with corrosion protection for extended longevity.

As a leading source of high performance BMW parts and accessories since 1993, we at Turner Motorsport are honored to be the go-to supplier for tens of thousands of enthusiasts the world over. With over two decades of parts, service, and racing experience under our belt, we provide only quality performance and replacement parts.  All of our performance parts are those we would (and do!) install and run on our own cars, as well as replacement parts that are Genuine BMW or from OEM manufacturers. We only offer parts we know you can trust to perform!

This item fits the following BMWs:
2001-2005 E46 BMW 325xi 330xi