Looking at a 2013 jcw hatch, how can you tell if its jcw sports suspension or not? I understand it doesnt come standard, so it would have to be installed later. Also, does it come with different sways from the jcw suspension. Those of you have changed, you think its a good upgrade?

 

It was my understanding that the quickest way to identify R56 JCW suspension is to check what color the springs are, the JCW springs should be red.

I can't help you with the sway bars as I'm not sure. and I don't have the JCW suspension I have the stock 'sport' suspension that came on my JCW so I won't chime in on the merit of upgrading.

good luck!

edit: while looking at bushings on ecstunning I did notice there are difference bushings for each suspension package on my r56 - http://www.ecstuning.com/Mini-2009-C...ings/Sway_Bar/

 

In terms of the swaybars, you can pretty much leave the front bar alone. Its good as is. If anything get a Non-S front sway bar, it'll help the rear rotate more. You can get the JCW RSB, but there are better bars out there that are adjustable. As for the Suspension, you'll have to look at the car. IIRC the JCW suspension was a port or dealer installed package, so it will not show up on a VIN decode.

 

The JCW suspension is lowered by 1/2". I think it has the same rear sway bar as the factory sport suspension but it also has different coilovers which the sport suspension doesn't have (it only has sway bars).

 

You should also see an install identification sticker on the Door Jam, with date and installers initials. It is an OEM upgrade so it is anotated for warranty purposes. Had mine installed the minute it arrived to the dealership from the docks.