2004 X3 3.0 SS - anyone try Bilsteins?

[pimpsled]

120,000 miles and the struts are starting to feel the wear.

Curious if Bilstein HDs will help the ride quality.

Has anyone changed their shocks/struts and what other suspension items did you replace?

[JCL]

Several posters have written that they tried the Bilstein HD on the X5 and weren't happy due to the compromised ride quality. Don't recall reading about any X3 examples, but the vehicles are similar enough that there may be a takeaway here:

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...xperience.html

[pimpsled]

Originally Posted by JCL

Several posters have written that they tried the Bilstein HD on the X5 and weren't happy due to the compromised ride quality. Don't recall reading about any X3 examples, but the vehicles are similar enough that there may be a takeaway here:

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...xperience.html

Thanks JCL. Appears to be mixed with one or two strong "do not put Bilsteins on an X"

Not a lot of options besides OEM. Stock springs and Bilsteins - we shall see.

Turner Sports deal on them are too good to pass up.

My buddy's Jeep SRT has Bilsteins and does not seem terrible.

[JCL]

I have no issue with Bilsteins, but I would think about whether you want the HD. They make several different variants IIRC, the X3 suspension is already on the stiff side, and you mentioned ride quality. I would expect ride quality to be degraded with the HD.

[AzNMpower32]

Models produced after 09/2004 have a revised suspension that's more compliant and comfortable without too much loss in handling. I think the old suspension parts from the 2004 model year that were stiff have been discontinued.

[pimpsled]

Originally Posted by AzNMpower32

Models produced after 09/2004 have a revised suspension that's more compliant and comfortable without too much loss in handling. I think the old suspension parts from the 2004 model year that were stiff have been discontinued.

That's really good to know. Thanks all.

[pimpsled]

I have 5/2004 build. I wonder if BMNA will know exactly what suspension changes were made and if they are available on the pre 9/2004 builds.