BMW Control Arm Replacements & Upgrades for BMW Z3 (1996-2002)

Control arm bushings play a key role in connecting the wheels to the chassis of the vehicle. Tasked with keeping suspension geometry in check while absorbing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) factory rubber bushings were engineered to provide a balance of comfort and control. As a factory bushing ages, it becomes brittle and begins to harden. When this happens the bushing will actually shrink and allow excess play in the suspension joint. This is typically felt by a sudden jerk forward after the car comes to a stop and is a leading cause of "sloppy" or "loose" suspension feel. By replacing the bushing with a full polyurethane unit or using a bushing insert, this play is eliminated since the suspension joint is being supported 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 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. Engineered to perform, Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm 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 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.

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:
1992-1999 E36 BMW 318i 318is 318ti 318ic 323is 323ic 325i 325is 325ic 328i 328is 328ic
1997-2002 Z3 BMW Z3 1.9 Z3 2.3 Z3 2.5i Z3 2.8 Z3 3.0i

RTABs play a key role in connecting the wheels to the chassis of the vehicle. Tasked with keeping suspension geometry in check while absorbing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) factory rubber bushings were engineered to provide a balance of comfort and control. As a factory bushing ages, it becomes brittle and begins to harden. When this happens the bushing will actually shrink and allow excess play in the suspension joint. This is typically felt by a sudden jerk forward after the car comes to a stop and is a leading cause of "sloppy" or "loose" suspension feel. By replacing the bushing with a full polyurethane unit or using a bushing insert, this play is eliminated since the suspension joint is being supported 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 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? Powerflex Black Series bushings are the ultimate in track and race bushings. Featuring 95A durometer polyurethane, Black Series bushings are 25% stiffer than street bushings. Engineered to perform, Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm 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. 

Trailing arm bushings play a key role in connecting the wheels to the chassis of the vehicle. Tasked with keeping suspension geometry in check while absorbing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) factory rubber bushings were engineered to provide a balance of comfort and control. As a factory bushing ages, it becomes brittle and begins to harden. When this happens the bushing will actually shrink and allow excess play in the suspension joint. This is typically felt by a sudden jerk forward after the car comes to a stop and is a leading cause of "sloppy" or "loose" suspension feel. By replacing the bushing with a full polyurethane unit or using a bushing insert, this play is eliminated since the suspension joint is being supported 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 inputs from the driver are effectively transferred to the wheels and vital road information is transmitted properly from the wheels to the driver.

Powerflex Black Series bushings are the ultimate in track and race bushings. Featuring 95A durometer polyurethane, Black Series bushings are 25% stiffer than street bushings. Engineered to perform, Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm 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. 

For BMW E30, Z3, E21, and 2002 models, upgrading to adjustable rear trailing arm bushings from manufacturers like Powerflex offers both improved performance and the ability to fine-tune suspension alignment. These bushings are designed to replace the factory rubber bushings, which can degrade over time and lead to imprecise handling.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Adjustable Alignment: These adjustable rear trailing arm bushings allow you to modify rear toe and camber settings. This is crucial for fine-tuning the suspension for different driving styles, especially if the car is used in motorsport applications like track days or autocross, or if the car has been lowered and needs suspension corrections.
• Superior Handling: By significantly reducing the play in the rear trailing arms, these bushings improve the car’s handling dynamics. They keep the rear suspension more rigid during acceleration, braking, and cornering, resulting in sharper, more predictable handling.
• Polyurethane Durability: Unlike the OEM rubber bushings, which wear out over time due to heat, road grime, and chemicals, these adjustable bushings are made of durable polyurethane. This material resists aging, cracking, and wear, ensuring consistent performance over a longer period.
• Reduced Deflection: Adjustable polyurethane bushings limit suspension deflection, allowing the vehicle to maintain optimal suspension geometry under load. This improves cornering performance and reduces body roll.
• Longer Service Life: Polyurethane bushings are known for their longevity compared to rubber bushings, offering a "fit and forget" solution for car owners who want reduced maintenance and better overall reliability.

Installation and Adjustment:

• Direct Fit Replacement: These bushings are designed as a direct replacement for the stock rubber bushings, offering the same fitment while adding adjustability. No major modifications are typically required, making installation easier for those familiar with suspension work.
• Alignment Precision: Once installed, these bushings allow precise adjustments to the suspension alignment, which is ideal for correcting issues that arise from modifications like lowering the vehicle or installing performance suspension components.

Ideal for:

• BMW E30 (3 Series)
• BMW Z3
• BMW E21 (3 Series)
• BMW 2002

These adjustable rear trailing arm bushings are perfect for enthusiasts looking for more control over their vehicle’s alignment and handling, whether for street driving or performance applications. They offer a great balance of increased performance, durability, and adjustability without sacrificing daily driving comfort.

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? Powerflex Black Series bushings are the ultimate in track and race bushings. Featuring 95A durometer polyurethane, Black Series bushings are 25% stiffer than street bushings. 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 part fits the following BMWs:
1982 - 1991 E30 318i 318is 325 325e 325es 325i 325is 325iC 325ix
1992-1999 E36 318i 318is 318ti 320i 323i 325i 325is 328i 328is M3
1995 - 2002 M Coupe Z3 2.8 Z3 3.0

Standard front control arm bushing made by an OEM supplier. Price is for the pair.

For convenience, we carry spare bushing carrier brackets (part# TSU9995PB3).

Lemforder is a supplier of parts directly to BMW and other major automotive manufacturers. In order to save on the cost of parts, we are able to provide you these parts directly from Lemforder at a much lower cost than if bought directly from BMW. These parts have the same high quality and reliability, just without the BMW logos.

The Powerflex Rear Trailing Arm Bushing for BMW E30, Z3, E21, E36/5 (318ti), and 2002 models is a high-performance suspension upgrade designed to replace the stock rubber bushings. Made from durable polyurethane, this bushing enhances the connection between the trailing arm and chassis, resulting in better handling and improved suspension control.

Key Features:

• Material: Made from high-quality polyurethane, which offers superior durability and resistance to wear compared to standard rubber bushings.
• Performance Improvement: Minimizes flex and movement in the rear trailing arms, leading to better suspension alignment, increased stability, and more precise handling, especially during cornering and hard acceleration.
• Direct Replacement: This bushing is a direct-fit replacement for the factory bushings in BMW E30, Z3, E21, E36/5, and 2002 models, ensuring easy installation without modifications.
• Longevity: Polyurethane bushings last longer than rubber, offering extended service life, especially in demanding driving conditions.

Benefits:

• Enhanced Stability: Reduces excessive movement in the rear suspension, providing improved cornering performance and reducing body roll.
• Increased Durability: Polyurethane resists wear from heat, oils, and road debris, ensuring longer-lasting performance compared to rubber bushings.
• Better Control: Firmer suspension response improves driving precision, making this an excellent choice for both street and track use.

The Powerflex Rear Trailing Arm Bushing is perfect for BMW enthusiasts who want to improve the performance, handling, and longevity of their car’s suspension. Ideal for both daily driving and performance-focused builds.