BMW M Performance Suspension (HAS height adjustable sleeve over kit)

[skalberti]

Originally Posted by ferrarif1

For anyone finding their new MP suspension is too harsh after installation: I updated my car last weekend to software 61.0. I made sure to reset the ICM calibration as well as resetting the ride height through ISTA/P on a perfectly level surface. This made an incredible diffidence in the car's compliance over bumps and took away any concerns that I had about the suspension.

Prior to the calibration, the suspension felt overly stiff, almost as if the suspension was pre-loaded due to the 20mm drop in front.

There is a good reason that BMW recommends a software update AFTER the install as ISTA/P resets the ICM calibration by default. I had been running 60.x for a few months prior and did not reset the calibration immediately after the install which led to harshness.

Now that you have the software update, how does your MP suspension compare to your stock? Stiffer than stock, or about the same as stock?

[dacman]

Originally Posted by ferrarif1

There is a good reason that BMW recommends a software update AFTER the install as ISTA/P resets the ICM calibration by default.

I'm confused by this statement as the BMW installation instructions state that the software be upgraded before the suspension is installed:

"In general the car must be flash-upgraded to the latest I-level status before the conversion work begins."

And there is nothing in the instructions about the software upgrade resetting the ride height? Im getting my suspension installed soon and would love to get a definitive answer on if I need the software updated and if so do I do it before or after the install.

[CanAutM3]

Originally Posted by ferrarif1

For anyone finding their new MP suspension is too harsh after installation: I updated my car last weekend to software 61.0. I made sure to reset the ICM calibration as well as resetting the ride height through ISTA/P on a perfectly level surface. This made an incredible diffidence in the car's compliance over bumps and took away any concerns that I had about the suspension.

Prior to the calibration, the suspension felt overly stiff, almost as if the suspension was pre-loaded due to the 20mm drop in front.

There is a good reason that BMW recommends a software update AFTER the install as ISTA/P resets the ICM calibration by default. I had been running 60.x for a few months prior and did not reset the calibration immediately after the install which led to harshness.

Just as a tidbit, "pre-loading" of the coils does not alter the spring rate, therefore will not make the suspension stiffer. It just limits how much the springs can extend when un-loaded.

[silverstar335]

Originally Posted by ferrarif1

For anyone finding their new MP suspension is too harsh after installation: I updated my car last weekend to software 61.0. I made sure to reset the ICM calibration as well as resetting the ride height through ISTA/P on a perfectly level surface. This made an incredible diffidence in the car's compliance over bumps and took away any concerns that I had about the suspension.

Prior to the calibration, the suspension felt overly stiff, almost as if the suspension was pre-loaded due to the 20mm drop in front.

There is a good reason that BMW recommends a software update AFTER the install as ISTA/P resets the ICM calibration by default. I had been running 60.x for a few months prior and did not reset the calibration immediately after the install which led to harshness.

At the time when I installed the suspension, 3.60.4 was the latest. Are we implying the suspension is meant to be used with 61.x or higher?

[ferrarif1]

Originally Posted by skalberti

Now that you have the software update, how does your MP suspension compare to your stock? Stiffer than stock, or about the same as stock?

On a non-ZCP car, MP is definitely stiffer which is expected.

Originally Posted by dacman

I'm confused by this statement as the BMW installation instructions state that the software be upgraded before the suspension is installed:

"In general the car must be flash-upgraded to the latest I-level status before the conversion work begins."

And there is nothing in the instructions about the software upgrade resetting the ride height? Im getting my suspension installed soon and would love to get a definitive answer on if I need the software updated and if so do I do it before or after the install.

You need to update to the latest available software. The end of the instructions state:

- Carry out steering angle adjustment
- Carry out a standard chassis measurement with DIN loading as described in ISTA No. 32 00 150
- Carry out a chassis measurement and adjust using the standard chassis adjustment data

Irrespective of update the software first or last, an ICM calibration is required after work is complete.

Originally Posted by CanAutM3

Just as a tidbit, "pre-loading" of the coils does not alter the spring rate, therefore will not make the suspension stiffer. It just limits how much the springs can extend when un-loaded.

I am aware of what spring pre-load is. I am stating that prior to the ICM calibration, the shocks felt overly stiff. I expect the default EDC programming increases the damping the more the shock is compressed (dynamic damping) and the 20mm drop was confusing the ICM sensors.

Regardless of my theory, it rides better after calibration.

Originally Posted by silverstar335

At the time when I installed the suspension, 3.60.4 was the latest. Are we implying the suspension is meant to be used with 61.x or higher?

You are fine with 60.4, 61.x is not required. I used the upgrade to 61.0 to reset the ICM calibration and would expect similar results if I had done the ICM reset with 60.4

[pbar]

Originally Posted by ferrarif1

Irrespective of update the software first or last, an ICM calibration is required after work is complete.

I am aware of what spring pre-load is. I am stating that prior to the ICM calibration, the shocks felt overly stiff. I expect the default EDC programming increases the damping the more the shock is compressed (dynamic damping) and the 20mm drop was confusing the ICM sensors.

Regardless of my theory, it rides better after calibration.

You are fine with 60.4, 61.x is not required. I used the upgrade to 61.0 to reset the ICM calibration and would expect similar results if I had done the ICM reset with 60.4

This sounds completely plausible... and would presumably also apply for any other brand of lowering spring with EDC. I doubt that any 3rd party spring installer would normally do this.

[Encanto]

Does an update includes by default an ICM reset or it is something that must be requested after the update?

Originally Posted by ferrarif1

You are fine with 60.4, 61.x is not required. I used the upgrade to 61.0 to reset the ICM calibration and would expect similar results if I had done the ICM reset with 60.4

[Encanto]

That is my conclusion as well.

Originally Posted by pbar

This sounds completely plausible... and would presumably also apply for any other brand of lowering spring with EDC. I doubt that any 3rd party spring installer would normally do this.

[ferrarif1]

Originally Posted by Encanto

Does an update includes by default an ICM reset or it is something that must be requested after the update?

If the update is done thought ISTA/P (dealer tool), an ICM reset is done by default.

[Encanto]

Originally Posted by ferrarif1

If the update is done thought ISTA/P (dealer tool), an ICM reset is done by default.

Thanks...

[chimp]

I picked up my 2015 non-ZCP M4 up today after having the BMW M Performance Suspension installed. In addition to that, I also had the 265 M0 and 295 Stars installed on the 19 inch 437 OEM wheels. Holy crap. The difference is night and day. Granted, I have been driving on my 18 inch 255 square winter wheel and tire setup since November, but my lord the difference really is astonishing. The feel of everything is improved just buzzing around town and some light spirited driving. Previously, when accelerating on the same entrance ramp to the expressway I take every day I felt as if the car was floating a bit as I approached 75 to 85 mph. Now, it is just planted. There could be a number of factors at work since the software/firmware prior to the install was the oldest I have seen here, the new tires, new alignment and of course the suspension but it honestly feels like a different car. I would post pictures but I suck at internet stuff. I will say the rear wheels, using the measurement from the top of the wheel to the fender like VeloF1 posted mine measure 3 1/4 inches versus his 3 1/2 inches. My fronts are identical to his height. Early returns are awesome!

[C-Mu]

Originally Posted by ferrarif1

For anyone finding their new MP suspension is too harsh after installation: I updated my car last weekend to software 61.0. I made sure to reset the ICM calibration as well as resetting the ride height through ISTA/P on a perfectly level surface. This made an incredible diffidence in the car's compliance over bumps and took away any concerns that I had about the suspension.

Prior to the calibration, the suspension felt overly stiff, almost as if the suspension was pre-loaded due to the 20mm drop in front.

There is a good reason that BMW recommends a software update AFTER the install as ISTA/P resets the ICM calibration by default. I had been running 60.x for a few months prior and did not reset the calibration immediately after the install which led to harshness.

How do you do this and how can I tell what software version I have?

[C-Mu]

Is the current version F020-16-11-503?

[silverstar335]

Originally Posted by C-Mu

Is the current version F020-16-11-503?

That's 3.60.4, the current version is F020-17-03-502, 3.61.x .

[C-Mu]

Originally Posted by ferrarif1

If the update is done thought ISTA/P (dealer tool), an ICM reset is done by default.

So I am good to go if the dealer updated the software after they installed my suspension?

[ferrarif1]

Originally Posted by C-Mu

So I am good to go if the dealer updated the software after they installed my suspension?

I would think the dealer is competent enough to reset after the work but may be a stretch with some of the stories I have read on this forum.

If the car rides and drives as expected, enjoy it and don't worry!

[C-Mu]

Originally Posted by ferrarif1

I would think the dealer is competent enough to reset after the work but may be a stretch with some of the stories I have read on this forum.

If the car rides and drives as expected, enjoy it and don't worry!

That's what I'm trying to do but the rough ride is making me question the install.

[C-Mu]

Anyone know if the front set screws are necessary? Just found one to be loose and the other is gone.
Thanks!

[C-Mu]

Originally Posted by Agent11br

Cool please let us know what method they utilize to adjust

The shop made the ride height adjustment in about five minutes. The downside is they said that you have to remove the control arm to do so or the whole thing will turn. Sorry, but I was hoping for and easy trick as well. Maybe the C clamp idea from your previous post might work?

[ferrarif1]

Originally Posted by C-Mu

Anyone know if the front set screws are necessary? Just found one to be loose and the other is gone.
Thanks!

I put copper anti-seize on mine before installation and the fronts are very easy to turn, I would recommend finding a new set screw.

[Agent11br]

Originally Posted by C-Mu

The shop made the ride height adjustment in about five minutes. The downside is they said that you have to remove the control arm to do so or the whole thing will turn. Sorry, but I was hoping for and easy trick as well. Maybe the C clamp idea from your previous post might work?

Appreciate the follow up! Good to note. I'm going to investigate when I swap on my summer tires here soon.

[mm767cap]

Going round and round with my dealership about how much the install should cost. They keep insisting it's $1500. Does anyone know if I would actually need a software update if my software is F020-16-07-506?

Thanks much