The BMW E90 generation represents one of the most beloved and modification-friendly platforms in automotive history. Whether you’re looking to enhance performance, aesthetics, or both, this iconic 3 Series offers endless possibilities for customization that’ll transform your driving experience.
We’ve witnessed countless E90 builds that showcase the platform’s incredible potential – from subtle cosmetic upgrades to full-blown track monsters. The beauty of modifying an E90 lies in its versatility and the massive aftermarket support that makes quality parts accessible and affordable.
If you’re considering joining the ranks of E90 enthusiasts who’ve unlocked their car’s true potential, you’re in for an exciting journey. We’ll guide you through the most popular modifications, performance upgrades, and styling options that’ll help you create the perfect build for your needs and budget.
Performance Engine Modifications for Your BMW E90
Engine modifications unlock the true potential of your E90’s powerplant, transforming it from a capable daily driver into a performance machine.
Cold Air Intake Systems
Cold air intakes represent the most accessible entry point into E90 engine modifications. These systems replace the restrictive factory airbox with free-flowing components that deliver cooler, denser air to your engine. Popular options include the aFe Power Magnum FORCE intake system and the K&N 57-3510 performance kit, both offering measurable gains in throttle response.
Benefits extend beyond just power increases. Your E90’s engine sound becomes more aggressive and sporty with these modifications installed. Most cold air intake systems add between 5-15 horsepower while improving fuel efficiency under light throttle conditions.
Installation typically takes 2-3 hours using basic hand tools. We recommend choosing systems with reusable filters like those from BMC or K&N to reduce long-term maintenance costs. Quality intakes feature heat shields to prevent hot engine bay air from entering the system.
Exhaust System Upgrades
Exhaust modifications deliver both performance gains and enhanced sound characteristics for your E90. Cat-back systems from manufacturers like Borla ATAK and MagnaFlow offer the best balance of performance and practicality. These complete systems replace everything from the catalytic converter back to the tailpipes.
Performance gains typically range from 8-20 horsepower depending on your engine variant. The 335i models see the most important improvements due to their turbocharged design. Sound levels vary dramatically between manufacturers, with some focusing on subtle enhancement while others deliver aggressive racing tones.
Downpipe upgrades provide substantial performance increases on turbocharged E90 models. High-flow catalytic converters or catless downpipes reduce backpressure significantly. We’ve seen dyno-proven gains of 25-40 horsepower from quality downpipe installations on 335i models.
ECU Tuning and Remapping
ECU tuning transforms your E90’s performance characteristics more than any other single modification. Professional tuning companies like Cobb Tuning and Burger Tuning offer comprehensive software packages. These tunes optimize fuel maps, ignition timing, and boost pressure on turbocharged models.
Stage 1 tunes typically add 30-60 horsepower on naturally aspirated engines and 60-100 horsepower on turbocharged variants. The transformation affects more than just peak power numbers. Throttle response becomes sharper, torque delivery improves throughout the rev range, and overall drivability enhances significantly.
Flash tuning devices allow you to switch between different maps instantly. We recommend starting with conservative Stage 1 maps before progressing to more aggressive tuning. Custom dyno tuning provides optimal results but costs significantly more than off-the-shelf answers.
Turbocharger and Supercharger Options
Forced induction upgrades represent the ultimate performance modification for naturally aspirated E90 models. Supercharger kits from ESS Tuning and VF Engineering bolt onto 328i and 330i engines with minimal modifications required. These systems typically add 80-120 horsepower while maintaining excellent reliability.
Turbocharger upgrades focus primarily on 335i models with factory twin-turbo setups. Single turbo conversions eliminate the complex twin-scroll system for simplified maintenance and increased power potential. Companies like Pure Turbos and Vargas Turbo Technologies offer comprehensive conversion kits.
Hybrid turbocharger options provide middle-ground answers for 335i owners. These units use larger compressor wheels and improved internals while maintaining factory mounting points. Power gains range from 50-80 horsepower over stock with supporting modifications like intercoolers and fuel system upgrades.
Suspension and Handling Enhancements
While engine modifications boost power, upgrading your E90’s suspension components transforms how that power reaches the road. Modern suspension enhancements turn the stock setup into a precise handling machine that corners with confidence.
Coilover Suspension Systems
Coilover systems replace your factory struts and springs with fully adjustable height and damping components. Popular brands like KW Variant 3, BC Racing BR series, and Bilstein PSS10 offer different performance levels for E90 builds. These systems typically provide 2-4 inches of height adjustment and 16-32 clicks of damping adjustment depending on the model.
Installation requires specialized tools and alignment afterward, with most shops charging $800-1,200 for professional setup. Quality coilovers eliminate wheel gap while maintaining daily drivability, unlike cheap alternatives that sacrifice ride comfort. Track focused options like Ohlins Road & Track or AST 5100 series cost $2,500-4,000 but deliver race car precision for serious enthusiasts.
Sway Bar Upgrades
Sway bars reduce body roll during cornering by connecting left and right wheels through a torsion bar mechanism. Aftermarket front sway bars for E90s typically measure 28-32mm compared to the stock 24-26mm diameter depending on your model. Rear sway bars increase from factory 16-18mm to aftermarket 20-24mm options from companies like Dinan, Turner Motorsport, and H&R.
Front sway bar upgrades cost $200-400 and install in 2-3 hours with basic tools. Rear installations take similar time but may require exhaust removal on some E90 variants. Adjustable end links allow fine tuning of the setup, with stiffer settings reducing understeer but potentially increasing oversteer characteristics.
Strut Tower Braces
Strut tower braces connect the shock towers to increase chassis rigidity and improve steering response. Front strut bars for E90s bolt directly to the existing tower mounting points without modifications. Popular options include Dinan carbon fiber bars, Turner Motorsport aluminum designs, and budget friendly Sparco steel versions ranging from $150-600.
Installation takes 30-45 minutes with basic hand tools and doesn’t require alignment afterward. Rear strut bars are available for E90 models but provide less noticeable improvement compared to front units. Some aftermarket front braces interfere with cold air intake systems, so check compatibility before ordering both modifications.
Performance Bushings
Performance bushings replace soft factory rubber with firmer polyurethane or solid aluminum alternatives throughout the suspension system. Control arm bushings see the most benefit from upgrades, with Powerflex, Whiteline, and Turner Motorsport offering complete bushing kits for $300-800. These kits typically include front and rear control arm bushings, differential bushings, and motor mount inserts.
Polyurethane bushings provide 70% more rigidity than stock rubber while maintaining reasonable comfort levels. Solid aluminum bushings offer maximum performance but transmit more noise and vibration into the cabin. Installation requires pressing equipment at most shops, with labor costs ranging $600-1,000 depending on which bushings you’re replacing.
Exterior Styling Modifications
Transforming your BMW E90’s appearance creates a striking visual impact that complements the performance upgrades we’ve discussed. These exterior modifications allow you to personalize your build while improving the car’s aggressive stance and aerodynamic properties.
Body Kit Installation
Complete body kits offer the most dramatic transformation for your E90’s exterior styling. Popular options include the M3 conversion kit, which transforms non-M models with authentic M3 styling cues including side skirts, front splitters, and rear diffusers. Aftermarket manufacturers like Vorsteiner, 3D Design, and AC Schnitzer produce comprehensive kits that cost between $2,500 and $8,000 depending on material quality and brand reputation.
Installation typically requires professional fitting to ensure proper alignment and paint matching. Most body kits include front and rear bumper replacements, side skirts, and aerodynamic elements that improve both aesthetics and downforce at highway speeds. We recommend choosing kits made from high quality materials like ABS plastic or fiberglass to ensure durability and proper fitment.
Custom Front and Rear Bumpers
Aftermarket bumpers completely change your E90’s facial expression and rear profile. Front bumper options range from subtle lip spoilers to aggressive wide body designs featuring larger air intakes and canards. Popular choices include the M Performance front bumper ($1,200-$1,800) and aggressive designs from manufacturers like Prior Design and Liberty Walk that create a more motorsport inspired appearance.
Rear bumper modifications focus on diffusers and exhaust integration. Performance oriented designs incorporate larger diffusers that work with your upgraded exhaust system while providing improved aerodynamics. Carbon fiber rear diffusers cost between $800 and $2,500 and often require trimming your existing bumper for proper fitment.
Aggressive Wheel and Tire Combinations
Wheel upgrades create the most noticeable visual impact on your E90’s stance and character. Popular sizing includes 18×8.5″ and 18×9.5″ staggered setups or square 19×9″ configurations that provide optimal performance and aesthetics. Brands like BBS, HRE, and Apex produce lightweight forged options that reduce unsprung weight while delivering striking visual appeal.
Tire selection balances performance characteristics with your intended use. Summer performance tires like Michelin Pilot Sport 4S or Continental ExtremeContact Sport provide excellent grip in sizes like 225/40R18 front and 255/35R18 rear. Lowering your E90 on coilovers allows for more aggressive wheel sizing while maintaining proper fender clearance.
Carbon Fiber Accessories
Carbon fiber components add lightweight performance aesthetics throughout your E90’s exterior. Essential pieces include mirror caps ($200-$400), trunk spoilers ($600-$1,200), and front lip spoilers ($400-$800) that enhance the sporty appearance while potentially reducing weight. Manufacturers like BMW Performance, Arkym, and PSM Ever-changing offer high quality pieces with proper clear coat finishes.
Interior carbon accents complement exterior modifications for a cohesive build theme. Dashboard trim pieces, steering wheel accents, and shift knob replacements create visual continuity between your exterior and interior modifications. We suggest choosing pieces from the same manufacturer to ensure consistent weave patterns and finish quality across all components.
Interior Customization Options
Transforming your BMW E90’s cabin creates an captivating driving environment that matches your exterior and performance modifications perfectly.
Sport Seat Upgrades
Recaro sport seats deliver exceptional support during spirited driving while elevating your E90’s interior aesthetics significantly. These racing inspired seats feature aggressive bolstering that keeps you planted during hard cornering and track sessions. Installation typically costs between $2,000 to $4,000 for a complete front pair including brackets and professional fitting.
OEM BMW Performance seats from M3 models offer a more subtle upgrade path for daily driven E90s. We recommend sourcing these directly from salvage yards or BMW dealerships to ensure authentic fitment and quality. Expect to invest $1,500 to $3,000 depending on condition and model year compatibility.
Custom upholstery options allow you to personalize existing seats with premium materials like Alcantara or carbon fiber accents. Professional reupholstering services can transform worn factory seats into stunning focal points using contrasting stitching and embossed logos for $800 to $1,500 per seat.
Custom Steering Wheels
Alcantara wrapped steering wheels provide superior grip and a race inspired feel that enhances your connection to the vehicle. Popular brands like OMP and Sparco offer direct replacement options with flat bottom designs starting around $300 to $600. These wheels often feature contrasting stitching and carbon fiber accents that complement other interior modifications.
Carbon fiber steering wheel upgrades create an aggressive motorsport aesthetic while reducing weight by 30% compared to factory units. We suggest brands like Rennline or Turner Motorsport for their proven quality and BMW exact fitment. Installation requires airbag compatibility considerations and professional expertise for safety compliance.
Quick release steering wheel systems cater to track focused builds where security and weight reduction are priorities. These systems allow rapid wheel removal for theft prevention and easier entry/exit during racing applications. Expect costs between $400 to $800 for complete hub and quick release setups.
Performance Gauges and Displays
Multi function digital displays replace factory gauges with comprehensive monitoring capabilities for engine parameters and performance data. Popular options include AEM CD7 and AiM MXS units that provide real time feedback on boost pressure, air fuel ratios, and lap times. These systems range from $800 to $2,500 depending on features and screen size.
Triple gauge pods mount seamlessly in your E90’s A pillar or dashboard to monitor critical engine functions during performance driving. We recommend focusing on boost pressure, oil temperature, and air fuel ratio gauges for turbocharged applications. Quality analog gauges from brands like Defi or GlowShift cost $150 to $300 each.
OBD2 diagnostic displays offer budget friendly monitoring answers that plug directly into your vehicle’s diagnostic port. These compact units can display over 100 engine parameters simultaneously and cost between $50 to $200. Popular models include ScanGauge II and UltraGauge for comprehensive engine monitoring capabilities.
Premium Audio System Modifications
Component speaker upgrades dramatically improve your E90’s sound quality by replacing factory paper cone drivers with premium materials. Brands like Focal, Hertz, and Alpine offer BMW exact fitment with silk dome tweeters and butyl rubber surrounds. Complete front and rear speaker packages typically cost $400 to $1,200 depending on the chosen tier.
Subwoofer installations add the low frequency response that factory systems lack while maintaining trunk space functionality. We recommend powered subwoofers from JL Audio or Kicker that integrate seamlessly with BMW’s factory amplifier systems. These units range from $300 to $800 and often include vehicle exact enclosures for optimal performance.
Amplifier upgrades provide clean power delivery to drive aftermarket speakers efficiently while reducing distortion at higher volumes. Popular choices include compact 4 channel amplifiers from Alpine or Pioneer that mount under seats or in spare tire wells. Professional installation ensures proper integration with factory electronics and costs $200 to $500 in labor.
Brake System Upgrades for Enhanced Performance
Upgrading your E90’s braking system is essential when increasing engine power and handling capabilities. Enhanced braking performance ensures your modified BMW can safely harness its improved power while providing the confidence needed for spirited driving.
Big Brake Kit Installation
Big brake kits transform your E90’s stopping power by replacing the factory brake system with larger, more efficient components. These comprehensive upgrades typically include larger diameter rotors (ranging from 330mm to 380mm), multi-piston calipers, and high-performance brake pads designed to work together as a complete system.
Popular manufacturers like Brembo, StopTech, and AP Racing offer complete big brake kits specifically engineered for the E90 platform. Brembo GT kits, for example, feature 6-piston front calipers with 380mm rotors that significantly reduce brake fade during extended performance driving sessions. Installation costs range from $3,000 to $6,000 depending on the kit’s specifications and whether you choose professional installation or tackle the project yourself.
Weight reduction is another important benefit of quality big brake kits, as many feature lightweight aluminum calipers and floating rotor designs. These systems also improve brake pedal feel and modulation, giving drivers better control over braking force application during performance driving situations.
Performance Brake Pads and Rotors
Performance brake pads and rotors offer an excellent entry point into brake system modifications without the expense of a complete big brake kit. High-performance pads from manufacturers like Hawk Performance, EBC, and Pagid provide significantly improved stopping power and heat resistance compared to factory components.
Hawk HPS pads are ideal for street driving with occasional track use, offering improved bite and reduced brake fade while maintaining reasonable noise levels. For more aggressive applications, Hawk HP+ pads provide race-level performance but generate more dust and noise during daily driving. Prices for performance pad sets range from $150 to $400 depending on the compound and intended use.
Upgraded rotors complement performance pads by providing better heat dissipation and consistent braking surfaces. Slotted rotors help evacuate gases and debris while cross-drilled versions offer additional weight savings and improved cooling. Two-piece floating rotors represent the ultimate upgrade, providing superior heat management and reduced unsprung weight for improved suspension performance.
Braided Steel Brake Lines
Braided steel brake lines replace the factory rubber lines with steel-reinforced units that eliminate brake line expansion under pressure. This upgrade provides a firmer brake pedal feel and more consistent braking performance, especially during high-performance driving situations where brake temperatures increase significantly.
Quality braided line kits from manufacturers like StopTech, Goodridge, and Russell cost between $100 and $200 for a complete four-wheel set. Installation is straightforward but requires careful attention to routing and proper torque specifications to ensure leak-free operation. The improvement in pedal feel is immediately noticeable, with many E90 owners reporting this as one of the best bang-for-buck brake modifications available.
DOT compliance is crucial when selecting braided brake lines, as quality manufacturers ensure their products meet all safety standards. Professional installation is recommended if you’re not comfortable working with brake system components, as proper bleeding and testing are essential for safe operation.
Brake Fluid Upgrades
High-performance brake fluid is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in maintaining consistent braking performance under demanding conditions. Factory brake fluid typically has a lower boiling point that can lead to vapor lock and brake fade during aggressive driving or track sessions.
DOT 4 performance fluids from manufacturers like Motul RBF 600, Castrol SRF, or ATE Super Blue offer significantly higher dry and wet boiling points. Motul RBF 600, for instance, has a dry boiling point of 594°F compared to approximately 446°F for standard DOT 3 fluid. This increased temperature tolerance prevents brake fade and maintains pedal consistency during extended performance driving.
Regular brake fluid changes become even more important with performance fluids, as these products are often more hygroscopic than standard fluids. We recommend changing performance brake fluid every 12 to 18 months or before each track season to maintain optimal performance. Cost for premium brake fluid ranges from $25 to $50 per liter, with most E90s requiring approximately 1 liter for a complete system flush.
Lighting and Visual Enhancements
Transforming your BMW E90’s lighting system creates dramatic visual impact while improving functionality and safety. These modifications range from subtle enhancements to bold statement pieces that make your E90 stand out day and night.
LED Headlight Conversions
LED headlight conversions deliver superior illumination while giving your E90 a modern, distinctive appearance. We recommend starting with plug-and-play LED bulb kits that replace halogen bulbs in H7, H11, or D1S configurations, typically costing $150-$400 per pair. Complete LED headlight assemblies offer the most dramatic transformation, featuring projector lenses with crisp cutoff lines and increased brightness output of 6000-8000 lumens compared to 3200 lumens from factory halogens.
Professional installation ensures proper beam alignment and prevents dashboard error codes, usually adding $200-$350 to the total cost. Quality LED conversions last 25,000-50,000 hours compared to 1,000 hours for halogen bulbs, making them a practical long-term investment. Popular brands like Morimoto, BavAuto, and Depo offer E90-exact LED assemblies with warranties ranging from 2-5 years.
Angel Eyes and Halo Ring Modifications
Angel eyes create the signature BMW look while adding distinctive character to your E90’s front end. Factory xenon headlights come with halogen angel eyes that appear yellowish, but LED conversions produce crisp white light at 6000K color temperature. We’ve found that CCFL (Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp) rings offer smooth, even illumination without hotspots, costing $80-$200 per set depending on quality and color options.
RGB angel eyes allow color customization through smartphone apps, enabling you to match your mood or exact themes with costs ranging $250-$500 for complete kits. Installation typically requires headlight removal and disassembly, taking 3-4 hours for experienced DIY mechanics or 2-3 hours for professional shops. Multi-color angel eyes can display thousands of colors and patterns, making your E90 instantly recognizable in parking lots or car meets.
Tail Light Customizations
Tail light modifications enhance your E90’s rear appearance while maintaining OEM functionality and safety standards. LED tail light conversions replace incandescent bulbs with brighter, faster-responding LEDs that illuminate 200 milliseconds quicker than traditional bulbs. Smoked or tinted tail lights create a sleek, aggressive look while maintaining legal visibility requirements in most states.
Sequential turn signals add ever-changing movement to your rear lighting, with LED strips that illuminate in flowing patterns similar to modern Audi and Ford vehicles. Complete LED tail light assemblies cost $300-$800 per pair and often feature updated lens designs with contemporary styling elements. Custom fabrication shops can create unique tail light designs using fiber optic cables or OLED strips, though costs increase to $1,200-$2,500 for one-off creations.
Underglow and Accent Lighting
Underglow lighting transforms your E90 into a rolling light show while highlighting the vehicle’s stance and wheel setup. LED strip kits designed for automotive use feature weatherproof ratings of IP65 or higher, ensuring durability in harsh conditions. We recommend starting with basic single-color kits costing $100-$200 before upgrading to RGB systems with smartphone control at $300-$600.
Interior accent lighting enhances the cabin ambiance using LED strips placed in footwells, door panels, and dashboard areas. Popular installation locations include cup holders, door handles, and speaker grilles, creating subtle illumination that complements your E90’s interior theme. Professional installation ensures proper wire routing and switch integration, typically adding $150-$300 to material costs. Sound-reactive underglow kits pulse and change colors based on music, creating ever-changing light shows at car meets and cruises for $400-$800 depending on complexity and quality.
Aerodynamic Improvements
Aerodynamic modifications significantly enhance your BMW E90’s performance while creating an aggressive visual presence. These upgrades work together to reduce drag and increase downforce for improved stability at higher speeds.
Front Splitters and Lip Spoilers
Front splitters create downforce by redirecting airflow underneath your E90’s nose section. OEM style lip spoilers offer subtle enhancement starting around $150-300, while aggressive carbon fiber splitters range from $400-800 depending on manufacturer quality.
Performance oriented options like Vorsteiner and BMW Performance pieces provide maximum aerodynamic benefit. Installing these components requires careful alignment with your front bumper and secure mounting to prevent damage at highway speeds.
Carbon fiber construction delivers the best strength to weight ratio for serious modifications. We’ve found that pairing splitters with canards or dive planes can increase front downforce by 15-20% compared to standalone installations.
Side Skirt Extensions
Side skirts smooth airflow along your E90’s profile while creating a lowered visual stance. Factory M3 style extensions cost $200-400 and integrate seamlessly with stock bodywork for a refined appearance.
Aftermarket options from companies like Hamann and AC Schnitzer offer more aggressive designs starting around $300-600. These pieces typically extend 2-3 inches beyond stock side skirts and require professional installation for proper fitment.
Carbon fiber side extensions provide weight savings while matching other aerodynamic components throughout your build. Proper installation involves reinforcing mounting points and ensuring adequate ground clearance for daily driving functionality.
Rear Wing and Spoiler Options
Rear spoilers generate downforce to improve high speed stability and traction during acceleration. Trunk mounted lip spoilers start around $100-250 and complement the E90’s sedan profile without overwhelming the design.
Adjustable GT style wings offer maximum aerodynamic performance with attack angles ranging from 0-20 degrees. These aggressive pieces cost $400-800 and require reinforced trunk mounting or dedicated wing risers for proper support.
Carbon fiber construction reduces unsprung weight while providing excellent durability against weather exposure. We recommend matching wing profiles to your front splitter design for balanced aerodynamic performance throughout your vehicle.
Diffuser Installations
Rear diffusers accelerate airflow from underneath your E90 to reduce drag and increase rear stability. Single exit designs complement stock exhaust systems and cost $200-500 depending on material construction.
Dual exit diffusers accommodate aftermarket exhaust modifications while providing aggressive styling cues. Carbon fiber options from BMW Performance and Dinan range from $600-1200 and include integrated mounting hardware.
Professional installation ensures proper alignment with your rear bumper and exhaust system routing. We’ve observed that pairing diffusers with rear spoilers can improve overall aerodynamic efficiency by coordinating airflow management between upper and lower vehicle surfaces.
Popular BMW E90 Modification Brands and Parts
Selecting the right brands ensures your E90 modifications deliver optimal performance and reliability. We’ve compiled the most trusted manufacturers that consistently produce high-quality components for BMW E90 enthusiasts.
M Performance Parts
M Performance Parts provide factory-backed quality with genuine BMW engineering excellence. These components offer the perfect balance between street usability and track performance, making them ideal for owners who want reliable upgrades without voiding warranties.
Key M Performance components include:
- Carbon fiber cold air intake systems ($450-650) that increase horsepower by 8-12 HP
- Performance exhaust systems ($1,200-2,100) featuring titanium tips and enhanced sound
- Suspension kits ($1,800-2,800) with adjustable dampers and lowered ride height
- Aerodynamic body kits ($2,400-4,200) including front splitters and rear diffusers
- Brake upgrade packages ($1,600-2,900) with larger rotors and performance pads
Installing M Performance parts typically requires 2-4 hours per component and maintains factory warranty coverage on unmodified systems.
Dinan Engineering Components
Dinan Engineering delivers exceptional performance gains through precision-engineered components backed by extensive dyno testing. Their modifications focus on extracting maximum power while maintaining daily drivability and long-term reliability.
Popular Dinan upgrades include:
- Stage 1 ECU tuning ($650-850) adding 15-25 horsepower across all E90 engines
- Cold air intake systems ($380-520) improving throttle response and engine sound
- Performance exhaust systems ($1,100-1,800) reducing weight by 15-20 pounds
- Suspension packages ($1,400-2,200) lowering ride height 0.8-1.2 inches
- Strut tower braces ($280-420) improving chassis rigidity and handling precision
Dinan components typically install in 1-3 hours and come with comprehensive tuning support for optimal performance calibration.
Turner Motorsport Upgrades
Turner Motorsport offers track-proven components developed through years of racing experience and customer feedback. Their parts excel in high-performance applications where durability and maximum output are priorities.
Turner’s most effective modifications include:
- Performance software packages ($400-700) optimizing fuel maps and ignition timing
- Intake and exhaust combinations ($800-1,400) increasing power by 12-20 horsepower
- Coilover suspension systems ($1,200-2,000) with adjustable dampening and height
- Big brake kits ($1,800-3,200) featuring larger rotors and multi-piston calipers
- Carbon fiber accessories ($200-800) reducing weight while improving aesthetics
Turner components require 2-5 hours for installation and include detailed instructions with video support for complex upgrades.
BMS Performance Modifications
BMS Performance specializes in innovative intake and charge pipe systems that maximize airflow efficiency. Their products focus on supporting forced induction applications and high-performance naturally aspirated builds.
Essential BMS components include:
- Burger Motorsports intake systems ($320-480) featuring heat-resistant materials
- Charge pipe upgrades ($180-320) eliminating restrictive factory components
- Intercooler upgrades ($600-1,100) reducing intake temperatures by 40-60 degrees
- Performance air filters ($45-85) improving filtration while increasing flow
- Boost control solenoids ($120-200) enabling precise turbo pressure management
BMS modifications install in 30 minutes to 3 hours and provide immediate performance improvements with proper tuning support.
Budget-Friendly BMW E90 Modification Ideas
Building an impressive E90 doesn’t require very costly. Strategic modifications can transform your BMW while keeping costs manageable.
DIY Cosmetic Enhancements
Vinyl wrapping sections of your E90 offers dramatic visual changes for $200-400 in materials. Carbon fiber vinyl transforms hood sections, mirror caps, and roof elements without the $1,500+ cost of genuine carbon parts. Application requires patience and basic tools, with YouTube tutorials providing step-by-step guidance for professional-looking results.
Window tinting enhances privacy and aesthetics for $150-300 when done professionally. DIY kits cost $50-80 but require steady hands and dust-free environments. Ceramic tints offer superior heat rejection and UV protection compared to traditional films.
Plastidip coating transforms wheels, grilles, and trim pieces for $30-60 per project. This removable coating allows color experimentation without permanent changes. Multiple thin coats create smooth, professional finishes that peel off cleanly when desired.
Debadging techniques create clean, minimalist appearances using dental floss and adhesive remover for under $20. Heat guns or hair dryers soften factory adhesive, while goo remover eliminates residue. Chrome delete treatments using vinyl or plastidip cost $40-80 for complete transformations.
Affordable Performance Gains
Cold air intake systems from brands like K&N or AEM provide 8-15 horsepower gains for $150-300. Installation requires basic hand tools and 30-45 minutes of work. Oiled cotton filters need cleaning every 15,000 miles, while dry filters require replacement annually.
Performance air filters upgrade stock paper elements for $40-80, delivering improved airflow and engine sound. K&N and AFE filters offer washable designs that last vehicle lifetimes with proper maintenance. Installation takes 10 minutes and requires no tools beyond basic hand implements.
ECU flash tuning through companies like AA Tuning or 93Octane provides 20-40 horsepower increases for $400-600. Stage 1 tunes optimize factory components while maintaining reliability. Handheld tuners allow multiple maps for different fuel octanes and driving conditions.
Strut tower braces from brands like Status Gruppe cost $80-150 and install in 20 minutes. These aluminum bars reduce chassis flex during cornering, improving steering precision and handling response. No suspension modifications are required for installation.
Used Parts and Market Finds
Facebook Marketplace searches reveal genuine BMW parts at 30-50% retail costs. M3 wheels, performance exhausts, and suspension components appear regularly from enthusiasts upgrading their builds. Inspection photos and part numbers verify authenticity before purchasing.
E90 forums like E90Post feature classified sections where members sell quality components. Established sellers with positive feedback offer reliable transactions and detailed condition reports. Part compatibility guides prevent costly mistakes when shopping across different E90 variants.
Salvage yard components provide OEM parts at fraction costs for interior and exterior modifications. Sport seats, steering wheels, and trim pieces from higher-end models upgrade base configurations affordably. Compatibility databases ensure proper fitment across production years.
Group buying opportunities through BMW clubs reduce costs on popular modifications by 15-25%. Suspension kits, exhaust systems, and body parts benefit from bulk purchasing power. Regional BMW meetups often coordinate these buying groups for maximum savings.
Progressive Modification Planning
Phase one modifications focus on visual impact for $500-800 total investment. Wheel spacers, performance air filter, window tinting, and vinyl accents create noticeable improvements without major mechanical changes. These modifications build foundation for future upgrades.
Phase two enhancements target handling and sound for $1,000-1,500 additional costs. Coilover suspension, performance exhaust, and brake pads transform driving dynamics while maintaining daily usability. Each upgrade complements previous modifications for cohesive improvements.
Phase three upgrades introduce serious performance gains through forced induction or engine internals costing $2,000-4,000. Turbo kits, intercoolers, and supporting modifications require professional installation and tuning. Previous phases prepare the platform for increased power levels.
Budget tracking spreadsheets help prioritize modifications based on cost-to-benefit ratios. Monthly modification budgets of $200-400 accumulate into important upgrades over time. Seasonal planning takes advantage of winter discounts and spring installation schedules for optimal timing and pricing.
Conclusion
The BMW E90’s remarkable versatility makes it one of the most rewarding platforms for modification enthusiasts. Whether you’re pursuing subtle enhancements or comprehensive performance builds we’ve shown that countless possibilities exist within every budget range.
Your modification journey should align with your driving goals and financial comfort zone. Starting with foundational upgrades like suspension and brakes creates a solid platform for future performance enhancements.
Remember that quality components from reputable manufacturers ensure long-term satisfaction and reliability. The E90’s strong aftermarket support means you’ll never lack options for expressing your automotive vision.
Take your time planning each phase and enjoy the process of transforming your E90 into something uniquely yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the BMW E90 generation so popular for modifications?
The BMW E90 generation is highly popular among enthusiasts due to its versatile platform and extensive aftermarket support. The chassis provides excellent potential for both cosmetic and performance upgrades, with countless options available from reputable manufacturers. Its balance of daily drivability and modification potential makes it an ideal platform for customization projects ranging from budget-friendly enhancements to comprehensive performance builds.
What are the best engine modifications for the E90?
The most effective engine modifications include cold air intake systems, exhaust system upgrades, ECU tuning, and forced induction options. Cold air intakes improve airflow, while performance exhausts enhance sound and power output. ECU tuning optimizes engine parameters for significant horsepower gains, and turbocharger or supercharger kits can transform the E90 into a serious performance machine.
How much can suspension upgrades improve E90 handling?
Suspension upgrades can dramatically transform the E90’s handling characteristics. Coilover systems provide adjustable ride height and damping, while sway bar upgrades reduce body roll. Strut tower braces increase chassis rigidity, and performance bushings improve response. These modifications work together to create a more connected, precise driving experience with significantly improved cornering capabilities and overall road feel.
What exterior styling modifications have the biggest visual impact?
Body kits, aggressive wheel and tire combinations, and carbon fiber accessories create the most striking visual transformations. Body kits completely change the car’s stance and appearance, while properly sized wheels with performance tires enhance both looks and performance. Carbon fiber components like hoods, mirrors, and spoilers add a premium racing aesthetic while potentially reducing weight.
Are brake upgrades necessary for modified E90s?
Brake upgrades become essential when increasing engine power and handling capabilities. Big brake kits with larger rotors and calipers provide increased stopping power, while performance pads and rotors improve heat dissipation. Braided steel brake lines offer better pedal feel, and upgraded brake fluid handles higher temperatures. These modifications ensure braking performance matches the increased capabilities of other upgrades.
Which brands offer the best E90 modification parts?
Top brands include M Performance Parts for factory-backed quality, Dinan Engineering for precision-engineered upgrades, Turner Motorsport for track-proven components, and BMS Performance for innovative intake systems. Each brand offers different specialties and price points, allowing owners to choose components that match their performance goals, budget, and quality requirements for their specific modification project.
Can I modify an E90 on a tight budget?
Yes, many impressive modifications can be achieved affordably. DIY cosmetic enhancements like vinyl wrapping, window tinting, and plastidip coating provide visual impact at low cost. Performance gains can be achieved through budget-friendly cold air intakes and ECU tuning. Used parts from Facebook Marketplace and E90 forums offer genuine components at reduced prices, making quality modifications accessible.
How should I plan my E90 modification project?
Plan modifications in progressive phases: start with visual impact upgrades, then focus on handling improvements, and finally pursue serious performance gains. Track your budget and prioritize modifications based on cost-to-benefit ratios. This phased approach allows you to spread costs over time while ensuring each modification complements previous upgrades, creating a cohesive and well-balanced final result.
