Rear Subframe Bushings Other Than M3

[MA128]

I put M3 rear subframe bushings on my 2009 128. From a performance perspective, they were great - achieving my goal of increasing high speed stability. However, I wasn't pleased with the additional NVH (mostly N).

Obviously, an E92 M3 has different suspension priorities but it is also 500 pounds heavier than a 128 coupe. While many 1addicts members rightly tout the benefits of the M3 bushings, I wonder if there isn't a middle ground. Are all non-M E92 and E82 RSBs the same? Perhaps the RSB from an E92 335i (400 pounds heavier)? Is there a way to buy BMW RSBs by a given level of stiffness?

From what I've read, I don't think Powerflex-type inserts are the answer (more NVH).

Thanks for your feedback.

[cat-like]

Excuse my ignorance, but what does the acronym NVH stand for exactly?

I have this mod on my list, so would be interested in responses.

[bmw4life27]

Originally Posted by cat-like

Excuse my ignorance, but what does the acronym NVH stand for exactly?

I have this mod on my list, so would be interested in responses.

Noise, vibration, and harshness....

[TS135i]

Most M3 bushing reviews I've read have been for the 135i, not sure if there is a big difference between the 128i.
I can imagine a small increase with V&H, however what is the Noise sounding like?

[SfValley335i]

The NVH from M3 subframe bushings is minimal and only heard on rough roads. After a week or two you will not notice it. Great mod, I would recommend it to everyone.

[ilikebmxbikes]

Originally Posted by SfValley335i

The NVH from M3 subframe bushings is minimal and only heard on rough roads. After a week or two you will not notice it. Great mod, I would recommend it to everyone.

Mine are not harsh at all. We all have different tolerances but the change was minimal.

OP what dampening are you riding on?

[PrematureApex]

My Whiteline inserts are not at all harsh. Where did you read inserts would bring too much NVH?

Maybe you're thinking of full-bushing Powerflex polys?

The inserts on the stock bushings added no increased NVH for me. Took the rubber band out of the rear of the car.

$45 and an hour to install...

[1Pirate]

Originally Posted by SfValley335i

The NVH from M3 subframe bushings is minimal and only heard on rough roads. After a week or two you will not notice it. Great mod, I would recommend it to everyone.

I agree. I had the same NVH concerns when I first got my M3 sub frame bushings. At first I noticed a slight increase in NVH, but as time goes on I don't even notice it anymore, only how much better the chassis feel.

Originally Posted by ilikebmxbikes

Mine are not harsh at all. We all have different tolerances but the change was minimal.

OP what dampening are you riding on?

I agree as well. Improving the car's damping will really improve not only the way the car rides, but the way it handles too. The weakest link in the stock suspension is the damping.

[HP Autosport]

I have not experienced any customer complaints with harshness of the M3 bushings. The point of the M3 bushings IS to give you a more sturdy and confident feel while driving aggressively (eliminate the fluff of the standard bushings). If you don't want that feel then you just stick with your OEM bushings.

-Mike

[crex]

here is a great article covering the bushings in the bmw 128i.

http://www.bimmer-mag.com/issues/101...2#.UfmuMb7D-po

[froop]

Originally Posted by crex

here is a great article covering the bushings in the bmw 128i.

http://www.bimmer-mag.com/issues/101...2#.UfmuMb7D-po

Thanks for that, it's a great find! A lot of very useful information.