The BMW G87 M2 has quickly earned a reputation as a raw, engaging driver's car that blends modern technology with the classic M-car spirit. However, even this chassis benefits from targeted suspension upgrades. Lowering springs, specifically the H&R Sport Springs, are one of the most effective modifications you can make to sharpen handling, reduce body roll, and dial in a more aggressive stance without sacrificing daily comfort. This guide delivers a comprehensive walkthrough of the benefits, the installation process, and post-installation tips to get the most out of your G87 M2.

Understanding the G87 M2’s Stock Suspension and Why Springs Matter

The G87 M2 leaves the factory with an adaptive M suspension that balances comfort and performance. BMW engineers gave it a modest ride height to suit a wide range of road conditions and driver preferences. But for enthusiasts who crave a lower center of gravity and reduced squat and dive under braking and acceleration, the stock springs represent the most accessible upgrade path.

H&R has been engineering springs for European performance cars for decades. Their Sport Springs for the G87 M2 are crafted from high-tensile steel and are cold-coiled for consistent performance. The drop is approximately 1.3 inches in the front and 1.2 inches in the rear, depending on options and assembly tolerances. That drop not only improves the car's visual stance but also lowers the roll center, which reduces body roll in corners and improves steering response.

Benefits of H&R Sport Springs for the G87 M2

Let’s break down what you can realistically expect after the installation:

Improved Cornering Stability

A lower center of gravity directly translates to less weight transfer during cornering. The H&R springs feature a progressive spring rate—soft enough to absorb road imperfections during normal driving but firm enough to resist compression in high-load cornering. This gives drivers more confidence when pushing the car through fast sweepers or tight chicanes.

Reduced Brake Dive and Acceleration Squat

Stock springs allow noticeable nose-dive under hard braking and rear squat when you get back on the throttle. H&R Sport Springs stiffen the suspension enough to keep the chassis flatter during these transitions. The result is more consistent braking performance and better traction on corner exit.

Aesthetic Enhancement

Let’s be honest—appearance matters. The G87 M2 sits about an inch higher than many enthusiasts prefer. Dropping it on H&R springs closes the wheel-gap and gives the car a purposeful, planted look. The front bumper sits lower, and the wheel arches fill out more naturally, especially with the factory 19/20-inch staggered wheel setup.

Daily-Drivable Ride Quality

H&R engineers put a lot of effort into tuning the spring rates so they don’t punish occupants over broken pavement. While you will feel sharper impacts more than the stock springs, the overall ride remains composed and compliant. Many owners report that the car still absorbs highway expansion joints and city potholes without harshness.

Tools, Materials, and Preparation

Installing lowering springs is an intermediate-level DIY job. If you have basic mechanical experience and a good set of tools, you can do this in a weekend. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Floor jack and two heavy-duty jack stands (a four-post lift is ideal if available)
  • Metric socket set: 10mm, 13mm, 16mm, 18mm, and 21mm for axle bolts
  • Torque wrench with a range of 20–150 ft-lbs
  • Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers for trim clips
  • Spring compressor (manual or hydraulic – strongly recommended for safety)
  • Breaker bar (for stubborn bolts, especially lower strut bolts)
  • Penetrating oil (WD-40 or PB Blaster) to loosen corroded fasteners
  • H&R Sport Springs (part numbers 28738-2 for the G87 M2, confirm with supplier)
  • Optional but helpful: torque angle gauge for final axle nut tightening

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Safety and Vehicle Preparation

Park the car on a level concrete floor. Set the parking brake and chock the rear wheels if lifting the front first. Disconnect the negative battery terminal if you plan to remove any electronic components near the strut towers.

2. Lifting and Removing the Wheels

Loosen the wheel lug nuts while the car is still on the ground. Then jack up the front or rear axle and place jack stands under the designated lift points (refer to the owner’s manual). Remove the wheels and set them aside.

3. Front Strut Removal (One Side at a Time)

Begin with the front suspension. Remove the brake line brackets from the strut housing (10mm bolt). Unclip the ABS sensor wire from the strut. Remove the two lower strut bolts (18mm) that secure the strut to the steering knuckle. Support the strut assembly, then remove the three upper strut mount nuts (13mm) in the engine bay. Carefully lower the strut out of the wheel well.

4. Disassemble the Stock Strut and Install the H&R Spring

Place the strut assembly in a bench vise or spring compressor. Compress the stock spring using the spring compressor according to the tool’s instructions. Once compressed, remove the top strut nut (21mm) while holding the strut rod with a hex key. Detach the upper mount, bearing plate, and stock spring. Transfer the upper mount and rubber isolators to the new H&R spring. Compress the H&R spring, install it on the strut, reassemble the top mount, and torque the top nut to the factory specification (typically 44 ft-lbs, but always verify). Slowly release the spring compressor.

5. Reinstall the Front Strut

Guide the assembled strut back into the wheel well. Align the upper studs through the chassis holes and hand-tighten the three nuts. Reattach the lower strut bolts and torque them to 74 ft-lbs. Reattach brake line brackets and ABS wire clips.

6. Rear Springs (Easier than the Front)

The rear suspension on the G87 M2 uses a separate spring and damper design. Pry off the lower control arm (sway bar end link) and support the hub. Compress the rear spring slightly to remove it. Install the H&R rear spring, making sure the pigtail fits into the lower rubber isolator. Slowly raise the control arm until the spring seats. Torque all suspension bolts to spec. (Rear spring removal is simpler, but a spring compressor is still recommended for safety.)

7. Wheel Installation and Final Torque

With all four corners reassembled, install the wheels. Hand-tighten the lug nuts, lower the car fully to the ground, then torque the lug nuts to 103 ft-lbs (factory spec) in a star pattern. Do not lower the car onto the wheels before tightening the lug nuts.

8. Check Clearance and Settle the Suspension

After installation, push the car up and down several times to settle the suspension. Check that the springs are seated correctly and that there are no loose components. Take the car for a short test drive at low speed, listening for squeaks or clunks. Return and re-torque the lug nuts after 50 miles.

Post-Installation: Alignment and Driving Notes

Lowering the G87 M2 changes the suspension geometry, especially camber and toe. You must have a professional alignment performed after the springs settle (typically after 200-300 miles). Expect negative camber to increase by roughly 0.5–1 degree in the front. Some owners adjust the front camber plates to dial it in for track use.

H&R recommends re-torquing all suspension fasteners after the first 100 miles. Keep an eye on the tire wear patterns—if the inner edges wear faster, the alignment needs adjustment.

Alternatives and Comparisons: H&R vs. Other Brands

Several other manufacturers offer lowering springs for the G87 M2, including Eibach, KW (theirs are coilovers), and MSS (adjustable height springs). Here’s how H&R stacks up:

  • Eibach Pro-Kit: Similar drop (1.0–1.2 inches) and slightly softer rates – a good choice for those prioritizing comfort.
  • MSS Adjustable Springs: Offer on-car height adjustability without changing spring rates. More expensive but allow fine-tuning.
  • KW Variant and Clubsport Coilovers: Full coilover setups with damping adjustability – best for track use, but cost significantly more.

For most street-driven G87 M2s, H&R Sport Springs strike the best balance of price, performance, and ride quality. They are a proven upgrade with decades of engineering backing.

External Resources

For more detailed technical specifications, check out the official H&R product page for the G87 M2: H&R G87 M2 Spring Details.

For real-world user reviews and installation photos, visit the G87 BimmerPost forum – search “H&R Sport Springs” for owner experiences and tips.

If you prefer a video tutorial, this instructional video from a reputable BMW shop demonstrates the front strut removal in detail (note: replace with a real URL).

Conclusion

Upgrading your G87 M2 with H&R Sport Springs is one of the smartest performance modifications you can make without compromising daily usability. The improved cornering stability, flatter braking, and aggressive stance will transform how the car feels and looks. With the right tools and patience, the installation is manageable at home, and the reward is a more connected, responsive driving experience every time you get behind the wheel.