SPL Parts 06-13 BMW 3 Series/1 Series (E9X/E8X) Front Lower Control Arms

SPL FLCA E9X Front Lower Control Arms for 2006-2013 BMW 3 Series and 1 Series

The SPL FLCA E9X Front Lower Control Arms provide roll center, camber, and track width adjustment for the BMW E9X 3-Series (325i, 328i, 330i, 335i, 335d, 335is, M3) and E8X 1-Series (128i, 135i, 135is, 1 Series M Coupe). The factory OEM lower control arm uses a rubber bushing at the subframe mount that deflects under load, creating alignment inconsistency during braking and cornering. The SPL FLCA E9X replaces this bushing with FK Rod Ends and High Misalignment Spherical Bearings, eliminating deflection for crisp, consistent alignment response. The main arm body is slotted for pinch bolt adjustment, and the exclusive electroless nickel-plated 4130 Chromoly Double Adjuster with 360-degree rotating clamps allows camber and track width changes without jam nuts. Roll center spacers are included for lowered cars. The street version includes the headlight aiming rod bracket. Does not fit xDrive or AWD variants.

Features and Benefits

• Roll center, camber, and track width adjustment from a single arm for comprehensive front geometry tuning
• 6061-T6 billet aluminum construction with black anodized finish for strength and corrosion resistance
• 4130 Chromoly gun-drilled Double Adjuster with electroless nickel plating and 360-degree rotating clamps eliminate jam nuts
• FK Rod Ends and High Misalignment Spherical Bearings replace rubber bushings, eliminating flex and binding under load
• Blue anodized titanium hardware reduces unsprung weight
• Stainless steel roll center spacers for precise correction on lowered cars
• Street version includes headlight aiming rod bracket
• Does not fit xDrive AWD variants
• Sold as a pair, made in the USA

Fitment

Specifications

What Is Included

• 2 x SPL FLCA E9X Front Lower Control Arms (one per side)
• 4130 Chromoly Double Adjusters with 360-degree rotating clamps
• Titanium socket-head cap screws
• Stainless steel roll center spacers
• Headlight aiming rod bracket (street version)
• Installation instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What geometry adjustments does the SPL FLCA E9X provide on the E90/E92 BMW 3-Series?
The SPL FLCA E9X provides roll center correction, front camber adjustment, and track width adjustment. This combination addresses the three most common alignment limitations encountered after lowering an E90, E92, E93, E82, or E88 BMW.

Will the SPL FLCA E9X fit my E90 328i daily driver?
Yes. The FK Rod Ends operate silently with a self-lubricating PTFE liner rated from -65 to 325 degrees F. The SPL FLCA E9X is appropriate for street use on any E9X 3-Series or E8X 1-Series, including daily-driven lowered examples.

Does the SPL FLCA E9X fit the E92 M3?
Yes. The SPL FLCA E9X fits the E90/E92/E93 M3 (2008-2013) as well as all E9X and E8X non-M 3-Series and 1-Series variants. It does not fit xDrive AWD variants.

Does installing the SPL FLCA E9X void my BMW warranty?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, BMW cannot void unrelated warranty coverage simply because an aftermarket suspension part is installed. The dealer must demonstrate that the SPL FLCA E9X directly caused the specific claimed failure.

What roll center spacers are included and when should I use them?
The SPL FLCA E9X includes stainless steel roll center spacers in multiple sizes. For stock-height cars, install without spacers above the bearing. For lowered cars, add spacers above the bearing to correct the roll center height. Do not use more than 1/2 inch total correction above the bearing.

Does the SPL FLCA E9X include the headlight leveling sensor bracket?
Yes. The street version of the SPL FLCA E9X includes the headlight aiming rod bracket to maintain proper headlight adjustment function. The race version omits this bracket.

What torque specs apply for SPL FLCA E9X installation?
Torque the subframe end bolt to 74 ft-lb (100 Nm). Torque the knuckle-side ball joint nut to 180 ft-lb using a calibrated torque wrench with thread lubricant applied. Do not use impact tools for final torque. Tighten titanium clamp screws to 150 in-lb maximum.

Is a professional alignment required after installing the SPL FLCA E9X?
Yes. A professional four-wheel alignment is required to set final camber and toe. Replicating OEM settings with the new arm geometry is not possible without alignment equipment. Bring the installation instructions to the alignment shop.

Installation Overview

1. Raise and support the vehicle; remove front wheels and any undertray panels for access.
2. Disconnect the headlight leveling sensor from the OEM arm (street version).
3. Remove the 21mm ball joint nut at the knuckle and the 21mm fastener at the subframe end.
4. Use a pry bar to separate the ball joint from the knuckle; remove the OEM arm.
5. Pre-set the SPL FLCA E9X to match OEM arm length using the Double Adjuster.
6. Determine roll center spacer count based on ride height; install spacers above the bearing only if lowered.
7. Install the SPL FLCA E9X at the subframe end first, then at the knuckle.
8. Apply thread lubricant to the knuckle ball joint threads; torque the knuckle nut to 180 ft-lb.
9. Torque the subframe bolt to 74 ft-lb (100 Nm).
10. Tighten the Double Adjuster clamp screws to 150 in-lb maximum.
11. Sweep suspension through full travel to confirm no binding or contact.
12. Reinstall wheels, lower the vehicle, and perform a professional four-wheel alignment.
13. Re-check all fastener torques after the first 100 miles and 500 miles.

California Prop 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and chromium, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.