More Comfortable Ride on the W203
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 135
Likes: 0
2005 C230 Kompressor SS
More Comfortable Ride on the W203
Hi, I drive a 2005 C230 Kompressor and though I love the amazing handling and sports suspension, I could get used to a smoother ride. The C230 is quite harsh and the entire car jars if i go over a bump or hole on the road incorrectly. I know that if I want a smoother ride, I may have to sacrafice some turning/handling capabilities such as installing new Shock Absorbers. Will shock absorbers make a big difference? Are there any other options? (ive gotten new tires already). And what can I expect it to cost? If anyone has some firsthand experience let me know, I really appreciate it, thank you!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 2,090
Likes: 11
From: SF Bay Area, CA
2006 E55 and 2002 E320
This may come as an odd suggestion to some, but I find the ride quality on my C230 to be less harsh when I increase the tire pressure. Many of you are probably wondering how can this be, as it should only get firmer; but I find that a healthy 4-6 PSI over the 28/32 the recommended seems to actually help the ride quality. Albeit, the improvement is minimal but perhaps noticeable by some.
Does anyone else share the same sentiment?
If you haven't tried this yet, I suggest that you try it and see how you like it. You can always release the air out of your tires.
Does anyone else share the same sentiment?
If you haven't tried this yet, I suggest that you try it and see how you like it. You can always release the air out of your tires.
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 810
Likes: 1
From: Illinois, Indiana
2005 C230 Sedan 6spd
I'm running 30/34 on my C230, I actually find the ride is more firm and handling improved. The opposite of what you experienced.
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 49
Likes: 0
From: Auckland, New Zealand, DOWN UNDER
2014 C200 w204
Hi, I drive a 2005 C230 Kompressor and though I love the amazing handling and sports suspension, I could get used to a smoother ride. The C230 is quite harsh and the entire car jars if i go over a bump or hole on the road incorrectly. I know that if I want a smoother ride, I may have to sacrafice some turning/handling capabilities such as installing new Shock Absorbers. Will shock absorbers make a big difference? Are there any other options? (ive gotten new tires already). And what can I expect it to cost? If anyone has some firsthand experience let me know, I really appreciate it, thank you!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 3,212
Likes: 8
From: Pasadena, CA
2002 C230K, 2013 BMW 328, 2015 BMW X5
This may come as an odd suggestion to some, but I find the ride quality on my C230 to be less harsh when I increase the tire pressure. Many of you are probably wondering how can this be, as it should only get firmer; but I find that a healthy 4-6 PSI over the 28/32 the recommended seems to actually help the ride quality. Albeit, the improvement is minimal but perhaps noticeable by some.
Does anyone else share the same sentiment?
If you haven't tried this yet, I suggest that you try it and see how you like it. You can always release the air out of your tires.
Does anyone else share the same sentiment?
If you haven't tried this yet, I suggest that you try it and see how you like it. You can always release the air out of your tires.
Have not seen you around in a while.
Your input is valuable, and I'm glad to see you back. Having said that, yes you are correct, your advice is 180 from what should happen with a higher PSI.
I recommend lowering our tire pressure. But watch for excess wear on the outside edges of the tire.
E
