Lowering Springs Guide
Best Lowering Springs for the
2006 – 2013 BMW 3 Series E90: Every Kit Compared
A complete comparison of lowering spring kits available for the 2006–2013 BMW 3 Series Sedan (E90) — covering 325i, 328i, 330i, 335i and their xDrive variants. Drop heights, pricing, RWD vs xDrive fitment, and real-world owner feedback.
At a Glance
Quick Comparison
| Brand / Kit | Front Drop | Rear Drop | Fits | Type | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| H&R Sport (328i) | -1.3" | -1.2" | 325i/328i RWD | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| H&R Sport (xDrive) | -1.3" | -1.2" | 325Xi/328Xi/330Xi/335Xi | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| H&R Sport (335i) | -1.3" | -1.2" | 335i RWD | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| H&R Race | -2.0" | -1.5" | 325i/328i/330i/335i RWD | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| Swift Spec-R | -1.0" | -0.8" | 335i E90/E92 | Linear |
|
SHOP → |
Important
What to Know Before You Buy
325i vs 328i vs 330i vs 335i
The E90 Sedan was offered with different engines: 325i (2006), 328i (2007–2013), 330i (2006), and 335i (2007–2011). Spring kits are model-specific due to different front strut and spring rates. For RWD: 50490 fits 325i/328i; 50490-4 fits 335i. The H&R Race (50490-88) fits all RWD models. For xDrive, use 50494.
RWD vs xDrive (Xi)
The 325Xi, 328Xi, 330Xi, and 335Xi have different front suspension geometry than RWD models. Use the H&R Sport 50494 for all xDrive E90 sedans. The 50490 and 50490-4 fit RWD only.
Vehicle Age & Shock Condition
2006–2013 E90s are 11–18 years old. Factory shocks are likely worn. Consider Bilstein B6 or B8 when installing springs for the best ride quality.
Alignment & Camber
Drops under 1.3" (H&R Sport, Swift) typically stay within factory alignment specs. The H&R Race (-2.0" front) will require camber plates. Always budget for a professional alignment after installation.
H&R Sport Springs (325i/328i RWD)
The H&R Sport (50490) delivers a 1.3" front and 1.2" rear drop on the 2006–2011 BMW 325i and 328i Sedan E90 (RWD). Designed for the N52-powered models, it provides a balanced stance with a progressive spring rate. The most affordable option for 325i/328i owners and the best choice for daily-driven E90 sedans.
H&R springs are cold-wound from 54SiCr6 steel in Germany and carry a lifetime warranty. Does not fit 335i or xDrive models — use 50490-4 for 335i RWD or 50494 for xDrive.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 BMW 325i Sedan / 330i Sedan E90 | -1.3" | -1.2" |
| 2007–2011 BMW 328i Sedan E90 | -1.3" | -1.2" |
Pros
- Lowest price for 325i/328i RWD
- Balanced drop for daily driving
- Made in Germany
Cons
- 325i/328i RWD only (no 335i or xDrive)
H&R Sport Springs (xDrive)
The H&R Sport (50494) fits all xDrive E90 sedans: 325Xi, 328Xi, 330Xi, and 335Xi from 2006–2012. Drop is 1.3" front and 1.2" rear. The only dedicated xDrive option in this guide, designed for the different front suspension geometry of AWD models.
Does not fit RWD 325i, 328i, 330i, or 335i — use 50490 or 50490-4 for those. Made in Germany with H&R's standard quality.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 BMW 325Xi / 330Xi Sedan E90 | -1.3" | -1.2" |
| 2007–2012 BMW 328Xi / 335Xi Sedan E90 | -1.3" | -1.2" |
Pros
- Only xDrive option in this guide
- Fits all xDrive E90 sedans
- Made in Germany
Cons
- xDrive only (no RWD fitment)
H&R Sport Springs (335i RWD)
The H&R Sport (50490-4) delivers a 1.3" front and 1.2" rear drop on the 2007–2011 BMW 335i Sedan E90 (RWD). Designed specifically for the N54-powered 335i, it provides a balanced stance with a progressive spring rate. Fits RWD 335i only.
For 335Xi, use the H&R Sport 50494. Does not fit 325i, 328i, or 330i — use 50490 for those.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2007–2011 BMW 335i Sedan E90 (RWD) | -1.3" | -1.2" |
Pros
- 335i-specific fitment
- Balanced drop for daily driving
- Made in Germany
Cons
- 335i RWD only
H&R Race Springs
The H&R Race (50490-88) delivers the largest fixed drop in this guide: 2.0" front and 1.5" rear. It fits all RWD E90 sedans — 325i, 328i, 330i, and 335i. The aggressive drop reduces fender gap significantly but uses a firmer progressive rate.
Camber correction is strongly recommended at -2.0" front. Ideal for owners who want maximum stance. Does not fit xDrive models. At the same price as the Sport, it's a value choice for those who prioritize drop over comfort.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 BMW 325i / 330i Sedan E90 | -2.0" | -1.5" |
| 2007–2011 BMW 328i / 335i Sedan E90 | -2.0" | -1.5" |
Pros
- Largest fixed drop (-2.0" F)
- Fits all RWD E90 sedans
- Same price as H&R Sport
- Made in Germany
Cons
- Firmer ride than Sport
- Camber correction required
- RWD only
Swift Spec-R Lowering Springs
The Swift Spec-R (4X905R) is the only linear-rate spring in this guide, designed for track-oriented 335i owners. It delivers a 1.0" front and 0.8" rear drop — the most conservative in this guide. Fits both E90 Sedan and E92 Coupe 335i.
Swift's H5S.TW proprietary material aims to reduce unsprung mass. The Spec-R is popular with HPDE competitors. Japan-made. Best choice if you prioritize handling predictability over maximum drop. Does not fit 325i, 328i, or 330i.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2007–2013 BMW 335i E90/E92 | -1.0" | -0.8" |
Pros
- Linear rate — predictable for track use
- Most conservative drop
- Fits E90 and E92 335i
- Japan-made
Cons
- 335i only (no 325i/328i/330i fitment)
- Firmer than progressive springs
- Higher price than H&R
Fitment Reference
Which Kits Fit Your Trim?
| Trim | H&R Sport 328 | H&R Sport xDrive | H&R Sport 335 | H&R Race | Swift |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 325i / 328i / 330i (RWD) | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| 335i (RWD) | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 325Xi / 328Xi / 330Xi / 335Xi | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
✓ = Confirmed fitment • ✗ = Not compatible
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need new shocks when installing lowering springs?
Not required, but recommended. E90s are 11+ years old; factory shocks are likely worn. Consider Bilstein B6 or B8 when installing springs for the best ride quality.
Will lowering springs void my factory warranty?
2006–2013 E90s are well past factory warranty. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealer cannot void your entire warranty for aftermarket parts.
Can I use 328i springs on my 335i?
No. The 328i (N52) and 335i (N54) have different front spring rates. Use 50490 for 325i/328i, 50490-4 for 335i RWD, or 50494 for xDrive models.
I have a 335Xi. Which kit fits?
Use the H&R Sport 50494, designed for all xDrive E90 sedans (325Xi, 328Xi, 330Xi, 335Xi). The xDrive models have different front suspension geometry than RWD.
Ready to Lower Your E90?
Browse all of our lowering springs for the BMW 3 Series E90, or contact us if you need help choosing the right kit for your trim and goals.