The BMW E46 is one of the most popular platforms for drifting, racing, and performance driving. While the chassis is well-balanced, its suspension needs upgrades to handle the demands of motorsport. One of the most effective upgrades you can make is installing E46 control arms. In particular, the SLRSpeed adjustable rear lower control arms are built for strength, adjustability, and precision alignment — all essential for drifting and racing applications.
What Do E46 Control Arms Do?
Control arms connect the wheel hub to the chassis, keeping suspension geometry in check. On the E46, the rear lower control arms play a critical role in maintaining camber and toe under load. Stock arms are fine for daily driving but are prone to flex and lack adjustability — a major issue for performance setups.
Why Upgrade to Adjustable E46 Rear Control Arms?
- Camber Adjustment: Allows fine-tuning for drifting, track, or stance setups.
- Improved Durability: Stronger than OEM arms, designed to handle aggressive driving.
- Better Alignment: Keeps geometry consistent under heavy cornering or drifting loads.
- Eliminates Weak Points: OEM arms can bend or fail with increased power and angle kits.
- Track & Drift Ready: Built to withstand motorsport abuse.
SLRSpeed Adjustable E46 Rear Control Arms
The SLRSpeed E46 rear lower control arms are engineered for enthusiasts who demand adjustability and strength. These arms are ideal for drift cars, track builds, and high-horsepower street cars. Features include:
- Fully adjustable camber and toe to dial in precise suspension geometry.
- High-strength construction to resist flex and bending.
- Performance bushings and heims for tight, responsive suspension movement.
- Lightweight but reinforced design for motorsport durability.
- Purple anodized finish for corrosion resistance and signature SLR styling.
Signs You Need New Control Arms
- Uneven tire wear due to poor camber control
- Loose or unstable rear handling under throttle
- Clunking or knocking noises from the rear suspension
- Car feels unpredictable during drifting or cornering
- OEM arms visibly bent or worn bushings
Control Arms and Alignment – The Key to Handling
Installing E46 control arms is only part of the equation. A proper alignment ensures your suspension geometry is optimized. Adjustable arms give you control over camber and toe settings, which directly impact grip, tire life, and drift control. Typical setups include:
| Setup | Rear Camber | Rear Toe |
|---|---|---|
| Drift | -1.0° | 0 to slight toe-in |
| Track | -1.5° to -2.0° | 0.1° to 0.2° toe-in |
| Street | -1.0° | Neutral or light toe-in |
Control Arms vs Other Suspension Upgrades
- Coilovers: Control ride height and damping, but not camber alignment.
- Angle Kits: Increase steering lock for drifting, but rear arms keep geometry balanced.
- Control Arms: Essential for keeping suspension settings consistent under power and angle.
Conclusion
For BMW E46 owners pushing their cars on the street, track, or drift circuit, adjustable rear control arms are a must-have upgrade. They provide durability, adjustability, and alignment precision that OEM arms simply can’t deliver. Whether you’re dialing in drift camber or setting up a competitive track car, SLRSpeed control arms give you the confidence and reliability needed for high-performance driving.
