BMW’s luxurious designs and top engineering standards make the automaker brand one of the most coveted options in the market. Aside from appearance and comfort, drivers look for cars that can outperform other models. Here are 9 upgrades you can make to improve BMW performance.
1. Intake and Exhaust Systems
Factories limit air intake to the engine to make drives less noisy. Adding an aftermarket air intake can increase the sucking sound on your hood but improve engine performance. Cold air is oxygen-rich and helps with efficient fuel combustion within the engine, generating more speed.
Used-up fuel and air must leave the engine to make space for more input. Stock exhaust systems have a muffler to silence the exhaust and clean out most of the smog before the air gets to the exhaust. This system affects air flow, hindering engine performance.
Upgrading the exhaust system allows your engine to breathe better, increasing its horsepower. A free-flowing system can improve engine performance when coupled with an intake upgrade. You enjoy better throttle response and effective power output.
2. Fuel Injection
Fuel injectors help deliver fuel to your car’s engine for the combustion process. Increasing the amount of fuel creates an adequate fuel-to-air ratio, increasing your engine’s power. Swapping stock fuel injectors and replacing them with more efficient options can improve BMW’s performance.
3. Performance Engine Build
Using performance parts when rebuilding a BMW engine can improve performance. Instead of stock parts, get upgraded pistons, stroker crankshaft, and beefed-up cylinder heads. Work with an experienced engine builder for the best result since engine assembly can be quite complex.
A more accessible alternative to replacing engine parts is adding a performance chip to your stock BMW engine. An engine control unit (ECU) remapping helps your engine reach optimal performance. An ECU will help improve fuel efficiency and increase torque, horsepower, and throttle response. Investing in a remapped ECU chip is a cheap but effective method of improving BMW performance.
4. Forced Induction
Aside from adding a cold air intake system, you can install forced-induction systems for better performance. For example, naturally aspirated engines in most BMW models have limited power; adding turbo or superchargers forces more air into the combustion chamber. This results in the engine releasing more energy, which causes more crankshaft revolutions.
You will experience greater power at low RPMs due to the increased boost from the forced induction system.
5. Synthetic Oil
Conventional oils contain waxes and minerals that limit oil flow and shorten oil lifespan. Switching to full synthetic oil for your engine offers better lubrication and saves you money in the long run. Synthetic oils have better resistance to heat and improved cold-flow ability. They provide better flow in cold temperatures, offering better engine wear protection. By promoting engine operation, synthetic oils improve car performance.
6. Oil Catch Can Kit
Oils and dirt can cause build-up on your BMW’s engine bay, affecting engine performance. Installing a catch can kit helps trap harmful dirt and grit in your oil, keeping your BMW running clean. An oil catch can kit is a relatively simple upgrade, but it enhances the car’s overall performance.
7. Suspension Upgrades
Improved performance does not only focus on the engine; you must account for modifications that can help with performance. Suspension upgrades like stiffer springs and coil-overs improve the drivability and comfort of your car. Coil-overs help with height and clearance adjustment, and lowering the vehicle will result in minimal weight transfer. You enjoy better control of your car since you get faster acceleration and quicker stops.
8. Performance Brake Pads
Unlike regular brake pads, premium options have better thermal resistance, ideal for harsh driving conditions. Since you will have improved engine power, you need better brakes to increase stopping power. Performance brake pads have lower brake fade, meaning the braking performance remains consistent over time. The calipers are made of material like steel or copper alloys mixed in graphite, resins, or carbon fiber to increase resistance and offer better friction.
9. Performance Wheels
Wheel option affects the car’s comfort, fuel economy, noise, and performance. Manufacturers often place sporty tires and wheels on some BMW models to improve the lap time and comfort. If your car has smaller rims and tires, you can switch them out for bigger, wider wheels. Such tires offer your car an enhanced look and better handling.
Bigger and wider tires and wheels improve braking, handling, and traction. Your BMW will feel stable even at high speeds on the track or street. Make sure that the alignment angles are correct to maintain drivability even in challenging conditions.
Improve Your BMW Performance
There are many ways to improve BMW performance, from engine upgrades like ECU installation to modification like wheel and suspension upgrade. Most upgrades are easy to install and come cheap but are effective in improving overall performance. To enjoy the best results, consult a qualified mechanic about the best modifications and upgrades for your car.
