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E36 Coilovers Install Guide

Your E36

Pick your year to see what fits.

This page covers the US E36 325i, 323i, 328i and M3, not the 318i or 318ti.

Adjustable height
Expert$900–$1,1005–8 hrs
All E36 mods

Why do it

Sets the height and cuts body roll.

Tools you'll need

Starting out? See our budget tool list.

Parts to buy

Double-check fitment before buying. We may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you.

Before you start

  • Book an alignment before you start. You need one right after.
  • Soak all the bolts in penetrating oil first.
  • Book an alignment before you start. You need one right after.
  • Soak all the bolts in penetrating oil first.

Steps

  1. Remove the front struts

    • Take them off.
    Watch this step (FCP Euro, on an E36) (2:30–8:04)

  2. Fit the front coilovers

    • Fit them.
    Watch this step (8:04–12:06)

  3. Remove the rear

    • Take off the rear shocks and springs.
    Watch this step (12:06–16:45)

  4. Fit the rear

    • Fit the rear coilovers.
    Watch this step (16:45–21:28)

  5. Torque everything

    • Torque the rear and front.
    Watch this step (21:28–24:06)

  6. Remove the front struts

    • Take them off.
    Watch this step (FCP Euro, on an E36) (2:30–8:04)

  7. Fit the front coilovers

    • Fit them.
    Watch this step (8:04–12:06)

  8. Remove the rear

    • Take off the rear shocks and springs.
    Watch this step (12:06–16:45)

  9. Fit the rear

    • Fit the rear coilovers.
    Watch this step (16:45–21:28)

  10. Torque everything

    • Torque the rear and front.
    Watch this step (21:28–24:06)

How to know it worked

Did this guide work for you?

Safety first

  • Park on flat ground, set the parking brake and chock the wheels.
  • Never get under a car held up only by a jack. Use jack stands.
  • Let the engine and exhaust cool first.
  • Disconnect the battery before unplugging electrical parts.
  • Wear safety glasses.
  • If something doesn't match your car, stop and ask a shop.

Follow your part's instructions and your service manual's torque specs.

Coilover install guides for other cars

More E36 mods