Bilstein B4 Experiences

[K-Dawg]

Don't see the Bilstein B4 (Touring) shocks/struts mentioned often. Maybe that's for a good reason, as members on another forum talk about the shocks rattling or knocking after some time. They are a twin-tube OE-type design as opposed to the monotube design that Bilstein is known for. On paper, they look like they could be a good option for a daily driver, paired with Eibach springs. I've read that the Bilstein B6 can be "busy" or harsh in some conditions and I'm looking for something refined and well-mannered.

Does anybody here have any experience or feedback on the B4 shocks/struts?

[EthanolTurbo]

They are cheap trash in my opinion, absolutely not worth it. Just get B6 or Koni Yellows.

[timmo]

On my ZHP they were fine for the 4 years I had them - with stock springs though, as designed. I'm not sure how they'd handle Eibach springs, might be somewhat underdamped. If you're going with aftermarket springs I'd just go with Koni Yellows

[K-Dawg]

They are cheap trash in my opinion, absolutely not worth it. Just get B6 or Koni Yellows.

Have you used them? What was wrong with them?

[EthanolTurbo]

Have you used them? What was wrong with them?

I had them on my 335i. They did not last long (under 50k miles) and were no better than OEM.

[yhp2009]

Ive had the B4s with oem springs for 4 years (10k miles) now. I drive mostly city (Chicago and NYC).
Coming from the original shocks which were over 95k miles, it was an immediate improvement. I felt the car dive and dip less, and more composed around corners. I chose the B4+oem spring bcuz of my city driving and it was the right decision in retrospect. Too many potholes waiting to damage the frame. As for the "canyon carving" aka parkway cruising, its does well enough and is quite friendly and playful. I feel the m3 move its weight around but in a predictable way. It remains very much a fun driving experience. For the money its not a bad oem replacement. However, I'll be upgrading to koni shocks very soon.

[Tbonem3]

They will not pair well with spring rates higher than stock