[E93M3MW]

Hi guys. I have recently picked up an OG M2 (LCI) and have the itch on mods / tuning.

It already has M Performance Carbon kit installed.

If you guys were to start from scratch, what would you do and in what order?

Thanks!

[F87source]

Originally Posted by E93M3MW

Hi guys. I have recently picked up an OG M2 (LCI) and have the itch on mods / tuning.

It already has M Performance Carbon kit installed.

If you guys were to start from scratch, what would you do and in what order?

Thanks!

1) Charge pipes: I have the BMS charge pipes that fit quite well and haven't given me any issues at all. So I highly recommend them. Here's my review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1831920

2) Intercooler: I have the BMS 5" stepped "street" intercooler, these are the shorter versions that are pnp on the m2 and don't require any cutting. If you do alot of street driving or auto x and need a really high thermal capacity intercooler then a race core intercooler is an option but it will require the m235i v brace to be installed and probably some cutting as well. If you track the car, I would recommedn the 5" core like what I have because it doesn't block the radiator as much as a race core. Here's my review on that: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1832501

3) Diverter valve: this will improve throttle response, I recommend the GFB DV+ (it's what I have) because it improves on the factory design and utilizes the bullet proof oem solenoid. The harness also doesn't come into contact with any hoses or other parts of the car, and it has been refined quite significantly over the years and doesn't cause any issues with compressor surging.

4) Tuning: I currently use BM3 and highly recommend it. My review is here: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2031816

5) Downpipe: You can get a catless down pipe for the best flow and most amount of sound. If you don't want the catless smell then get a high flow catted down pipe.

However if you have strict emissions laws then you won't be able to do this.


6) Magnetic drain plug: I have the turner motorsports titanium magnetic drain plug. My review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1830240

7) Coding app: I currently use protool to do all of my coding. Here's my review on that: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2003707

It's android only at the moment so you might need to get a cheap android tablet to use it. I have a galaxy tab a7 lite that I use strictly for car things like coding or gauges and tuning/datalogging.

8) BM3 wifi adapter: For tuning, guages, datalogging and coding. My review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2025504

9) Door sill guard: I have the M decal store door sill guards to protect the door sill paint from scratching and I think this is an absolutely mandatory mod. Here's my review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...php?p=30312066

10) Mud flaps: I have the automotive passion mudflaps. Review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2044667

11) AGM products jack rod: This is a super nice tool to help you work on your car - especially since it is hard to find a spot for a jack stand on these things.

Review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2034375

[ThreeStripes]

Suspension (M Performance is a great option)
Dorch HPFP, VRSF Intercooler, Chargepipe, Downpipe, tune
M2CS steering/diff/MDM coding

Rip it

[F87source]

I'd also add a crank seal guard - I personally use the Malo industries one. Review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1807187

[Markyc66]

If there was one mod of all of the above it would be a high flow Downpipe IMO

[///MPhatic]

If I had it do to all over again I'd do it just the way I have, but I'd skip the CCB's and larger intercooler + Stage 2 power mods.

- BMS clutch stop
- M Performance shift knob
- Medium tinted windows (sensitive eyes)

- M Performance suspension

- Charge pipe
- Boost pipe
- MST Inlet
- Turbosmart DV
- Fabspeed sport cat
- BM3 Stage 1

- All M Performance carbon fiber bits
- CS rear carbon spoiler
- OE black grille surrounds
- Perl cf front lip (yet to be installed)
- 102mm angle-cut exhaust tips
- Suvneer GTS aluminum hood
- PPF
- Comp mirrors (installed but no pix yet)
- M Performance red 2NH brake kit
- BBS FI-R's in diamond black

That should do it I think.

Living a boy's adventure tale. by Andrew Thompson, on Flickr

She's ready. by Andrew Thompson, on Flickr

[3t3p]

Hoho ho merry Christmas, you've all forgotten something, turbo inlet!

Over £10,000 in Mods later, performance and cosmetic here is what I would do:

'essential/strongly recommended'

2-300 CEL downpipe (Milltek with HJS core)

Intercooler upgrade (DO88)

Charge-pipe upgrade (forge)

Turbo inlet (MST V2)

DV if you want, apparently stock one is a strong unit, I have the turbo smart. All DV bitch to install, I recommend a mechanic!

These mods alone make a noticeable difference to power, sound and response on a stock tune.

MHD/BM3 stage 2 tune (I'm MHD 2+)

M3/M4 aluminium+- carbon engine brace retrofit, can not overstate this one enough, transforms the chassis, some will say just do the aluminium brace saves you cash/sourcing and fitting components for likely 80-90% benefit. The CF looks cool AF in the bay though

M4 GTS steering coding (I used Thor, RIP)

Cosmetic/nice to haves

M2C style wing mirror caps either something like AutoID or the real thing.

OEM carbon diffuser sets the back off. Add a spoiler if you like too.

Silvered indicator bulbs, get rid of the fried egg look.

Black gills and grilles/badges.

Red starter button, brightens up the interior, attracts women, adds 50bhp.

M2C/M3/M4 seat retrofit

Goldenwrench supplies black line rear reflector overlays, amazing how much more serious and aggressive the car looks from behind just doing this.


ASD bypass/code off get rid of drone, fakery and stereo breathes more easily playing music.

Suspension if you find stock crashy on commutes, if you can live with it i'd say it's really good esp with softer side wall tyres like PS4S.

I'll still keep my coilovers with softer spring rate (Litchfield, seems to be aging like fricking fine wine, my car is so compliant now) but stock is good when above 45MPH or so.

Keep her well maintained, best fuel you can find.

[///MPhatic]

Originally Posted by 3t3p

Hoho ho merry Christmas, you've all forgotten something, turbo inlet!

Silvered indicator bulbs, get rid of the fried egg look.

M2C/M3/M4 seat retrofit

Goldenwrench supplies black line rear reflector overlays, amazing how much more serious and aggressive the car looks from behind just doing this.

ASD bypass/code off get rid of drone, fakery and stereo breathes more easily playing music.

Suspension if you find stock crashy on commutes, if you can live with it i'd say it's really good esp with softer side wall tyres like PS4S.

I didn't forget the inlet. Great mod when someone else installs it.

I need to get those bulbs.

I wanted to like the M3/M4 seat, but the OG seat is overall more comfortable (try them back to back several times). Recaro Sportster is a better play for the same money as the ill-fitting M3/M4 unit.

I will never understand the rear reflector changes/overlays, I love the stock red.

My ego isn't bothered at all by the fake engine noise, and I actually like it.

Suspension is just so terrible, I can't believe you said it's possible to keep it!

We BOTH forgot body colored front reflectors.

[3t3p]

Europe doesn't suffer those daft front reflectors!

Didn't see you mention the inlet good call.

Well I have tried the seats back to back as I did retrofit...stock always gave me terrible lumbar ache after 45-60mins. M3/4 much better and shoulder and side bolstering much better so you can feel what the car is doing.

Stock suspension really isn't that bad, it works a lot better after the brace retrofit and PS4S sidewalls, 34 PSI

[E93M3MW]

Originally Posted by F87source

1) Charge pipes: I have the BMS charge pipes that fit quite well and haven't given me any issues at all. So I highly recommend them. Here's my review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1831920

2) Intercooler: I have the BMS 5" stepped "street" intercooler, these are the shorter versions that are pnp on the m2 and don't require any cutting. If you do alot of street driving or auto x and need a really high thermal capacity intercooler then a race core intercooler is an option but it will require the m235i v brace to be installed and probably some cutting as well. If you track the car, I would recommedn the 5" core like what I have because it doesn't block the radiator as much as a race core. Here's my review on that: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1832501

3) Diverter valve: this will improve throttle response, I recommend the GFB DV+ (it's what I have) because it improves on the factory design and utilizes the bullet proof oem solenoid. The harness also doesn't come into contact with any hoses or other parts of the car, and it has been refined quite significantly over the years and doesn't cause any issues with compressor surging.

4) Tuning: I currently use BM3 and highly recommend it. My review is here: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2031816

5) Downpipe: You can get a catless down pipe for the best flow and most amount of sound. If you don't want the catless smell then get a high flow catted down pipe.

However if you have strict emissions laws then you won't be able to do this.


6) Magnetic drain plug: I have the turner motorsports titanium magnetic drain plug. My review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1830240

7) Coding app: I currently use protool to do all of my coding. Here's my review on that: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2003707

It's android only at the moment so you might need to get a cheap android tablet to use it. I have a galaxy tab a7 lite that I use strictly for car things like coding or gauges and tuning/datalogging.

8) BM3 wifi adapter: For tuning, guages, datalogging and coding. My review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2025504

9) Door sill guard: I have the M decal store door sill guards to protect the door sill paint from scratching and I think this is an absolutely mandatory mod. Here's my review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...php?p=30312066

10) Mud flaps: I have the automotive passion mudflaps. Review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2044667

11) AGM products jack rod: This is a super nice tool to help you work on your car - especially since it is hard to find a spot for a jack stand on these things.

Review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2034375

That's a superb post. Very helpful.

That's my weekend of reading sorted with just your reply

Thank you.

[E93M3MW]

Originally Posted by 3t3p

Hoho ho merry Christmas, you've all forgotten something, turbo inlet!

Over £10,000 in Mods later, performance and cosmetic here is what I would do:

'essential/strongly recommended'

2-300 CEL downpipe (Milltek with HJS core)

Intercooler upgrade (DO88)

Charge-pipe upgrade (forge)

Turbo inlet (MST V2)

DV if you want, apparently stock one is a strong unit, I have the turbo smart. All DV bitch to install, I recommend a mechanic!

These mods alone make a noticeable difference to power, sound and response on a stock tune.

MHD/BM3 stage 2 tune (I'm MHD 2+)

M3/M4 aluminium+- carbon engine brace retrofit, can not overstate this one enough, transforms the chassis, some will say just do the aluminium brace saves you cash/sourcing and fitting components for likely 80-90% benefit. The CF looks cool AF in the bay though

M4 GTS steering coding (I used Thor, RIP)

Cosmetic/nice to haves

M2C style wing mirror caps either something like AutoID or the real thing.

OEM carbon diffuser sets the back off. Add a spoiler if you like too.

Silvered indicator bulbs, get rid of the fried egg look.

Black gills and grilles/badges.

Red starter button, brightens up the interior, attracts women, adds 50bhp.

M2C/M3/M4 seat retrofit

Goldenwrench supplies black line rear reflector overlays, amazing how much more serious and aggressive the car looks from behind just doing this.


ASD bypass/code off get rid of drone, fakery and stereo breathes more easily playing music.

Suspension if you find stock crashy on commutes, if you can live with it i'd say it's really good esp with softer side wall tyres like PS4S.

I'll still keep my coilovers with softer spring rate (Litchfield, seems to be aging like fricking fine wine, my car is so compliant now) but stock is good when above 45MPH or so.

Keep her well maintained, best fuel you can find.

Thanks mate, great post.

Who did your MHD 2+ ?
Did you take it to a tuner here or can you flash it via laptop / app like the BM3?

[E93M3MW]

Thank you everyone for the recommendations/ suggestions. Keep them coming!

[F87source]

Originally Posted by E93M3MW

Thanks mate, great post.

Who did your MHD 2+ ?
Did you take it to a tuner here or can you flash it via laptop / app like the BM3?

mhd is app only, and yes you would flash it like bm3 via the app.

[3t3p]

Used MHD off the shelf (OTS) tune.
I do believe in custom tuning but would rather do it on a rolling road and don't have access to that where I am currently. So OTS it is!

I used the MHD black OBD flasher.

[mtoosexy]

Originally Posted by Markyc66

If there was one mod of all of the above it would be a high flow Downpipe IMO

It has SURELY been discussed, but i struggle to find threads via search...
Does a high flow cat throw codes? I am in Illinois, not the strictest of states... but i cant be throwing codes when i go to test every few years.

[mtoosexy]

Originally Posted by F87source

1) Charge pipes: I have the BMS charge pipes that fit quite well and haven't given me any issues at all. So I highly recommend them. Here's my review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1831920

2) Intercooler: I have the BMS 5" stepped "street" intercooler, these are the shorter versions that are pnp on the m2 and don't require any cutting. If you do alot of street driving or auto x and need a really high thermal capacity intercooler then a race core intercooler is an option but it will require the m235i v brace to be installed and probably some cutting as well. If you track the car, I would recommedn the 5" core like what I have because it doesn't block the radiator as much as a race core. Here's my review on that: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1832501

3) Diverter valve: this will improve throttle response, I recommend the GFB DV+ (it's what I have) because it improves on the factory design and utilizes the bullet proof oem solenoid. The harness also doesn't come into contact with any hoses or other parts of the car, and it has been refined quite significantly over the years and doesn't cause any issues with compressor surging.

4) Tuning: I currently use BM3 and highly recommend it. My review is here: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2031816

5) Downpipe: You can get a catless down pipe for the best flow and most amount of sound. If you don't want the catless smell then get a high flow catted down pipe.

However if you have strict emissions laws then you won't be able to do this.


6) Magnetic drain plug: I have the turner motorsports titanium magnetic drain plug. My review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1830240

7) Coding app: I currently use protool to do all of my coding. Here's my review on that: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2003707

It's android only at the moment so you might need to get a cheap android tablet to use it. I have a galaxy tab a7 lite that I use strictly for car things like coding or gauges and tuning/datalogging.

8) BM3 wifi adapter: For tuning, guages, datalogging and coding. My review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2025504

9) Door sill guard: I have the M decal store door sill guards to protect the door sill paint from scratching and I think this is an absolutely mandatory mod. Here's my review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...php?p=30312066

10) Mud flaps: I have the automotive passion mudflaps. Review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2044667

11) AGM products jack rod: This is a super nice tool to help you work on your car - especially since it is hard to find a spot for a jack stand on these things.

Review: https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2034375

This may help the thread author as well.
LONG TIME FAN AND LURKER...I just picked up a 2017 low mileage OG. I'm looking at Dinan ignition coils, new spark plugs, a highflow downpipe, charge pipe and a Dinan stage 1 tune... anything glaringly obvious i am missing? Larger intercooler may be down the road in a year or so.
thanks in advance!!

[mtoosexy]

Gorgeous!!!! i have the Mperformance suspension too, but mine doesnt sit so low.
What charge and boost pipe did you go with?

Originally Posted by ///MPhatic

If I had it do to all over again I'd do it just the way I have, but I'd skip the CCB's and larger intercooler + Stage 2 power mods.

- BMS clutch stop
- M Performance shift knob
- Medium tinted windows (sensitive eyes)

- M Performance suspension

- Charge pipe
- Boost pipe
- MST Inlet
- Turbosmart DV
- Fabspeed sport cat
- BM3 Stage 1

- All M Performance carbon fiber bits
- CS rear carbon spoiler
- OE black grille surrounds
- Perl cf front lip (yet to be installed)
- 102mm angle-cut exhaust tips
- Suvneer GTS aluminum hood
- PPF
- Comp mirrors (installed but no pix yet)
- M Performance red 2NH brake kit
- BBS FI-R's in diamond black

That should do it I think.

Living a boy's adventure tale. by Andrew Thompson, on Flickr

She's ready. by Andrew Thompson, on Flickr

[ThreeStripes]

Originally Posted by mtoosexy

This may help the thread author as well.
LONG TIME FAN AND LURKER...I just picked up a 2017 low mileage OG. I'm looking at Dinan ignition coils, new spark plugs, a highflow downpipe, charge pipe and a Dinan stage 1 tune... anything glaringly obvious i am missing? Larger intercooler may be down the road in a year or so.
thanks in advance!!

Skip the Dinan tune in favor of MHD or BM3. Do the chargepipe, intercooler, and downpipe at the same time ahead of the “Stage 1” tune.

[///MPhatic]

Originally Posted by mtoosexy

Gorgeous!!!! i have the Mperformance suspension too, but mine doesnt sit so low.
What charge and boost pipe did you go with?

I removed the blue rear adjusters which dropped the car another 8mm, then dropped the front the same. I find it to be damn near visually perfect this way, and no issues at all with the extra drop.

Mad charge pipe, FTP boost pipe.