BMW Ultimate Bushing Kit - E46M3BUSHKIT2

Product Information

A subframe mount bushing (also referred to simply as a subframe mount) is a vibration-isolating bushing used to connect the front and rear subframe to the vehicle’s main body or unibody. The subframe itself serves as a structural framework to mount key assemblies such as the suspension, engine, and transmission. Because the drivetrain and suspension are mounted to the subframe, they naturally transmit vibrations to the body of the car. The subframe mount acts as an additional cushion, absorbing vibrations, shocks, and road noise while allowing some flexibility in the subframe’s movement. This helps reduce stress on the vehicle’s body and provides a smoother, more comfortable ride.

There are a few common types of subframe mounts. In an OE application such as a stock vehicle, the mount is typically made of solid rubber, voided rubber (some holes to increase flexibility), or occasionally hydraulic-filled rubber. In performance and race applications, minimizing movement in the subframe is important to maintain correct suspension geometry during high G-loads, so going to polyurethane mounts or reinforcements is a popular upgrade.

Aging or torn subframe mounts can cause several issues, including poor handling or tracking of the wheels, inability to maintain an alignment with abnormal tire wear, and bangs or clunks when transferring load front to back, like when braking or accelerating. Inspect the mounts for cracks or tears, or leaks if the mount is hydraulic.

• Bangs and Clunks: If you are experiencing clunks or bangs when going over bumps, or when braking or accelerating is a sign that the entire subframe is moving around excessively and the mounts may be bad.
• Increased Vibration (NVH): Subframe mount bushings are designed to isolate vibrations from the engine and suspension. When they go bad, they will not effectively absorb NVH, and you will feel more vibrations transferred to the cabin.
• Handling and alignment issues: Since the suspension is connected to the subframe, the mounts must be in good shape. If they aren't, the suspension will have more freedom of movement independent from the car body/frame, and it may also be difficult to maintain an alignment.
• Excess Movement: With the car securely off the ground, use a lever like a pry bar between the subframe and the body of the car. If there is excess movement and it is easy to shift the subframe, the mounts should be replaced.

About Lemforder

LEMFÖRDER is the No.1 brand in original equipment steering and chassis components. As a trusted partner of over 50 vehicle manufacturers worldwide LEMFÖRDER is a leader in the development of innovative passenger car, motorcycle, HCV and off-road chassis technology. Lemforder is a quality innovator in the fields of steering and suspension system parts and is often the OE (original equipment) of suspension parts for car brands including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo and more. Founded in Lemförde near Bremen, LEMFÖRDER still engineers over 90% of its parts in Germany.

As part of a global organization, LEMFÖRDER follows the footprints of the automotive industry and has production and engineering sites all over the world. Each LEMFÖRDER part is rigorously tested before entering the market. For over 70 years LEMFÖRDER has been known for its pioneering spirit and passion for detail – setting the highest standards in steering and suspension. As an OE supplier to vehicle manufacturers for decades, LEMFÖRDER has a reputation for developing products that are perfectly suited to the overall vehicle system.

Lemforder many times matches OE quality and are considered either OE or OEM for many popular European models. In fact, many of their parts are made on the same line as the original and have had the BMW logo milled or ground off to be sold under the Lemforder label instead. Lemforder is of equal quality as many of the Genuine parts available with Lemforder coming in at a significant cost savings.