Question about Lowering modules/kits
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From: South Florida
ML350
Question about Lowering modules/kits
So....im reading a post somewhere and see someone else say that the s550 4 matic or ABC are the only models that work with various lowering modules. I also saw a stock s550 at the local dealer with a Brabus lowering module among the many other Brabus options it had, so i think that the 4matic and ABC information was wrong. These lowering modules are around $1500-$1900 online based on a quick search. It seems like the handling may be improved with the module, so im wondering that since ABC is so uncommon, would adding a lowering module be an easy and cheaper substitution?
Has anyone had any experience with a lowering module and their s550? It seems like an easy install from what ive heard. Would it void the warranty?
thx in advance
T
Has anyone had any experience with a lowering module and their s550? It seems like an easy install from what ive heard. Would it void the warranty?
thx in advance
T
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2004
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From: South Orange County, CA
4 wheels
Most require splicing of the wires so the module could tie into the system. I am not sure if they can lower ABC equipped cars, however with cars that have the stock suspension (Airmatic) you can lower with Star Diagnostics via the cars main onboard computers. Any dealer can do this, the problem is that most dealers wont or dont know how to.
Want to lower, call steve aka MBenzNL.
Want to lower, call steve aka MBenzNL.
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2006
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I'm reminded of a mechanic's story about an SL (I think) with height-adjusting suspension. It lowered, but I wouldn't say that it helped the handling. Every time the car was started, the suspension reset and bottomed out, such that the wheels hit the wheelarches. Very funny, unless it was your car, I suppose.
Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 87
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From: Vallejo, CA USA
15 MB Sprinter, 14 MB S550, 08 Smart Fortwo, 04 Dodge Sprinter, 87 MB 190E 2.3-16
For the S550 the only lowering module based on my research that did not require any splicing or cutting what so ever was the Carlsson lowering module. What's great about it is that is has brackets to mount in the factory location so no drilling, and replacement plugs to plug in to the factory control units. Installation took me an hour.
I am currently using it in my S550 and it's been great for the past 24000 miles since I've installed it back in April. It did improve handling a little with extra harshness in ride but I will be replacing it due to the limitations in lowering height. I currently have it set at 18mm lowering in the front and the maximum of 25mm lowering in the rear. The front can lower down to 30mm but I don't lke the stance of the car leaning down in the front.
As of right now, I really don't want to because it is really good enough but I will have no choice but to splice wires with the next module I am to purchase for that extra 10mm front and rear drop if I am to be satisfied.
Oh well, but we'll see when time comes.
I am currently using it in my S550 and it's been great for the past 24000 miles since I've installed it back in April. It did improve handling a little with extra harshness in ride but I will be replacing it due to the limitations in lowering height. I currently have it set at 18mm lowering in the front and the maximum of 25mm lowering in the rear. The front can lower down to 30mm but I don't lke the stance of the car leaning down in the front.
As of right now, I really don't want to because it is really good enough but I will have no choice but to splice wires with the next module I am to purchase for that extra 10mm front and rear drop if I am to be satisfied.
Oh well, but we'll see when time comes.
Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 87
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From: Vallejo, CA USA
15 MB Sprinter, 14 MB S550, 08 Smart Fortwo, 04 Dodge Sprinter, 87 MB 190E 2.3-16
I'll post pictures tomorrow. Mileage, yes it's up there, I can't afford for the car depreciate while sitting in the garage so I'd rather put miles. Anyways in my line of business I have no choice but to put at least 4000 to 5000 miles a month on the car and that's not including the other vehicles I shuffle around in. But it's worth it when your on the road as much as I am to have something smooth and quiet.
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From: Bay Area
07 SL550; C32 (sold)
Most require splicing of the wires so the module could tie into the system. I am not sure if they can lower ABC equipped cars, however with cars that have the stock suspension (Airmatic) you can lower with Star Diagnostics via the cars main onboard computers. Any dealer can do this, the problem is that most dealers wont or dont know how to.
Want to lower, call steve aka MBenzNL.
Want to lower, call steve aka MBenzNL.
Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 87
Likes: 12
From: Vallejo, CA USA
15 MB Sprinter, 14 MB S550, 08 Smart Fortwo, 04 Dodge Sprinter, 87 MB 190E 2.3-16
Here are the pictures. Lowered at 18mm in the front and 25mm in the rear. I will post installation pictures of the Carlsson Lowering Module when I remove, you'll see that it has the best fit and finish and no splicing whatsoever. I will post the installation of the new module as soon as I purchase from Adam at EuroElites.
Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 87
Likes: 12
From: Vallejo, CA USA
15 MB Sprinter, 14 MB S550, 08 Smart Fortwo, 04 Dodge Sprinter, 87 MB 190E 2.3-16
In regards to miles on the S550, I was off, a little over 22500 instead of 24000, but for sure it will have 24000 by the time I get back from Las Vegas this weekend. In regards to the S500 I only have 118000 miles because I was shuffling around with other cars that I previously had. But so far so good I usually average between 22.5 to 26.1 mpg per tank so I don't hesitate to get up and go. 22.5 for a mix of city and highway and 26.1 for all highway and those are consistent.
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From: Las Vegas, NV
2011 E350 Cabriolet..White and Almond Mocha
In regards to miles on the S550, I was off, a little over 22500 instead of 24000, but for sure it will have 24000 by the time I get back from Las Vegas this weekend. In regards to the S500 I only have 118000 miles because I was shuffling around with other cars that I previously had. But so far so good I usually average between 22.5 to 26.1 mpg per tank so I don't hesitate to get up and go. 22.5 for a mix of city and highway and 26.1 for all highway and those are consistent.
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2001 VW Jetta GLX VR6
Here are the pictures. Lowered at 18mm in the front and 25mm in the rear. I will post installation pictures of the Carlsson Lowering Module when I remove, you'll see that it has the best fit and finish and no splicing whatsoever. I will post the installation of the new module as soon as I purchase from Adam at EuroElites.
