LOVEMYBS

I'm use to a firmer ride so I'm considering lowering my 09 ML550 with either Eibach or H&R lowering springs. My ML is just too car-like, sways a little too much, and seems to be top heavy. I searched the archives for relevant threads and found very little help. Has anyone lowered their ML, what were the results (better looks, better handling, worse handling etc.) and would recommend/not receommend this? Thanks.

roadrutz

The ML63 is about an inch lower than the 550, so one would have to assume that there is a benefit to doing so. The 550 with Airmatic can be lowered by selecting the Sport setting; it also lowers automatically at speed even in the Normal setting. But I'm guessing that if you lower a 550 with traditional springs, you'll also have to install different shocks, so better be prepared to open your wallet.

AMGC60-3

I have had H&R springs on mine with the stock shocks for almost a year now with no problems so far. I decided to lower because I wanted a firmer,stable ride over here in Germany due to the higher speed and aggresive driving enviroment. I may sooner or later replace the shocks but I am not sure yet. The H&R springs can be used with your stock shocks. (without Airmatic mind you).

jon2002

How's the ride quality and comfort with those springs? Do you have any pictures? Did the H&R's lower the vehicle much?

AMGC60-3

It is harder, firmer and much better in the curves, the vehicle feels very stable at high speeds but you do lose the comfort side.

jon2002

Do you have anything to compare its comfort to? Still more comfortable than a BMW X5? (Which I didnt buy due to its jittery ride)

AMGC60-3

The ride is not jittery,and there is still comfort in the ride, I like it very much and it is more direct and I like how it sits, I have several pics under my account.

LOVEMYBS

Thank you, this is the type of feedback I'm looking for! My ML does not have Airmatic (Thank --d), it sits a little to high with the 20" tires (I like the 20" tires though) and the wheel well gap seems to be excessive. Progressive rate lowering springs will reduce that gap by approximately 1.5 inches, reduce body sway/roll, stiffen the ride and improve handling. A least that's my goal

AMGC60-3

Well, then the H&Rs are for you. I have lowered every Benz I have ever had except for one. What you wrote above is what I want as well. Let us know what you decide.

LOVEMYBS

Today I visited a performance tire shop. Their tech recommended Eibach progressive rate lowering springs as I suspected (they're an Eibach distributor). They quoted me $575-$600 which includes the springs and labor. I also asked about the shocks and they said the springs will put additional pressure on the shocks but they should be ok. I may also require a 4-wheel alignment. Bottom line, either the Eibach's or the H&R's will give me what I'm looking for - less body roll, tighter suspension, better handling in the corners, more aggressive look, and a firmer more stable overall ride. I'll keep you posted as I go forward with this.

AMGC60-3

I am very happy with my H&R springs and there is a very big difference, I feel very confident in the curves and at higher speeds.

soapy

I have airmatic suspension on my 550 and like the 3 settings. The sport setting is a big plus.

jon2002

I am very hesitant lowering a vehicle without upgrading to performance struts. I have had a previous car (not a MB mind you) with eibach prokit springs, and oem type struts, and although the height looked great, it absolutly ruined the ride quality. I went through 3 (three!) sets of struts within 70-80k.

LOVEMYBS

Thanks for the strut response. Based upon your remark I asked the question if I should also replace the struts too. I was told it wasn't necessary but it does raise a future red flag and something I will monitor over time. After calling another reputable independent shop I also asked about the quoted $575-600 purchase and install price which IMO I thought was low. I'm going back Friday so they can lift my ML to see if the quote was correct. I think the install price (labor) is going to rise. If it rises too much I'm going to pass-

B-tsai

Any update? I was thinking of doing the same.

LOVEMYBS

Yes, I was quoted $1,200 for labor alone at my indy shop so I took it back to the original shop and asked them to re evaluate their estimate. After looking at my ML again they came back with $700.00 for labor and parts.

My indy shop didn't know the ML suspension was redesigned in 09. I'm going back to them this week to see if they will match the other estimate after looking at my ML because (after talking to them) they quoted me prices based upon an 08 or earlier ML which they were familiar with. If they can't match the price I'll have the work done at the first shop.

BTW, you can buy the Eibach springs on eBay for $255.00 plus shipping which is a lot cheaper then letting your shop buy them for you or purchasing them direct from Eibach. Regardless of the outcome I'm going to have the work done late next week. I'll keep you posted.

medic

PLease come back and update! Pictures would help. Pre-post images? If possible... It will really help some of us here and will be greatly appreciated.
THanks

B-tsai

Thanks for the update.

I was thinking of going with Tirerack for the springs and my local indy for install. If I remember correct, I was quoted around $600 for the labour. (Mine is 2008). Are you saying that 2009+ models are easier to install or more difficult?

Still worried about the stock shocks holding up, but don't really see an aftermarket alternative other than the Brabus Spring/shock combo for around $2k.

Sharkster

Any news on this?

AudiA4Turbo22

Take it from me I have had every suspension setup known to man on my cars. I've had the Airmatic ML500 and now the standard spring and strut on my ML550.

On my other car I started out with springs and struts and then moved to performance coilovers.

SKIP THE SPRINGS only route, your shocks will never last within a year you will be floating and over compressing due to worn shocks. Do both at the same time.

To maintain a smooth ride, the idea would be to get progressive springs that stiffen as the springs get hotter(which Eibach and H&R both offer), but get a spring that has a spring rate that isn't too far off of the OEM springs to prevent having a super harsh ride. If you know the spring diameter of the stock springs, you can just order a similar spring from Hyperco or Swift(I recommend Swift) that's slightly shorter.

I personally think you would get sick of it after about 6 months, the ride becomes annoying and as the suspension parts wear out due to them not being designed to hold this kind of stress your car will begin to squeak and creak more and more.

I'd rather try and retrofit Airmatic(yes not a cost effective upgrade), but it is the best balance between sport and comfort while only needing links or a lowering module to achieve your desired height.

However, the only suspension kit I do condone for this car would be the Brabus Suspension kit with the shocks and springs. Yes, it isn't cheap, but Brabus unlike most other companies actually takes the time to do diligent R&D work before offering any sort of product for our cars.

LOVEMYBS

This is really good info and I appreciate your response and recommendations. I was thinking of installing coil over shocks at the same time. Will this solve some of the problems you discuss?

AudiA4Turbo22

Well, I've done lots of research and haven't been able to find any coilover kits for our cars. Coil overs are the best option if you're after good handling, a decent ride and height adjustability.

I love the coilovers on my other car, but this is all irrelevant unless a company offers a coilover kit for the W164. I still think the Brabus kit at $2,050 is very pricey but may be worth it if you're car is still under warranty. Dealers usually close one eye on Brabus parts.

However, if there are any coilover kits available for our cars LMK, I'd be interested as well.

AMGC60-3

Actualy I believe Bilstein is contracted from Brabus and you can get suspension kits for our ML from Bilstein in three different packages, the B4, B6 and B8.

AudiA4Turbo22

That's outstanding, Bilstein is one of the best options for coilovers out there if not the best. I will look into that.

AMGC60-3

I believe I have seen the kits on German eBay, I do have a good friend that has worked at the factory for over 30 years, I need to talk to him sooner or later...........