General information (BMW 3 Series E46)

The independent front suspension of the MacPherson type is a strut consisting of a coil spring and a telescopic shock absorber. The right and left struts are supported at the bottom by transverse levers, the inner ends of which are connected to the subframe through rubber bushings, and the outer ends are equipped with ball joints. The front steering knuckles, on which the brake calipers and hub assemblies are mounted, are bolted to the suspension struts and connected to the lower arms through ball joints. All models are equipped with a front anti-roll bar. The anti-roll bar is mounted on rubber mounts and is attached with earrings to both arms or struts (depending on the model).

The independent rear suspension has longitudinal arms that are connected to the hub bearings via the lower and upper transverse arms. Coil springs are installed between the body and the upper transverse arms, and shock absorbers connect the longitudinal arms to the body. Most models have a rear anti-roll bar. The anti-roll bar is mounted on rubber mounts and connected by earrings to both upper arms.

Note: The information in this chapter applies to the standard suspension. Models with sports suspension differ slightly. For more detailed information, please contact your BMW dealer.