As you can see in the picture, our 2001 5-Series sits a bit lower than normal. The previous owner did a few modifications such as cross drilled rotors and lowering springs/struts on it. Why do you think he did this?
- Lowered struts seem to be popular with these cars. I think it gives the car an interesting look — sleek and fast. My dad told me that a lowered rear end was popular during the 50’s. To each his own.
- Lowered struts are less expensive than OEM at the parts store and online. Money is a persistent motivator.
- Lowered struts provide a race-car-like ride. I like how the car handles with the lowered stance. It certainly makes me want to drive it differently than a normal car. Zoom zoom.
But there are also some reasons not to use the lowered struts/springs.
- Lowered struts are not comfortable on bumpy roads. You feel every bump, crack, pebble, and grain of salt on the road.
- Lowered struts are difficult to drive over steep driveways. When I first bought the car, I couldn’t enter the driveway to a gas station. I recently scraped the bottom of the car while exiting a park in Columbus. Not good.
- Lowered struts might not be able to be aligned properly. My mechanic noted that my rear wheels were further out at the bottom than the top. Because of the modified spring height, he could not adjust it to the correct specs. Not good.
- Lowered struts might not provide enough space for snow during winter driving. That is one of my biggest concerns. You know how snow and ice get packed in the wheel well. With a smaller space, the winter would be a bad situation. Not good.
So, I will be replacing the lowered struts/springs with the originals. Thankfully, the previous owner gave those to me with the car. The mechanic seems to think that they look good enough to use. Here’s hoping that all goes well.