The Ultimate BMW Brake Change Guide

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide on how to replace the brakes on a BMW, specifically focusing on modern non-M models over the past 20 years. This process is illustrated using a BMW F30 328i as an example, but the steps are applicable to various models. By following these detailed instructions, you can ensure a proper brake job, improving your vehicle's safety and performance.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

• Gather necessary tools: jack, jack stands, breaker bar, 6mm and 8mm Allen keys, screwdrivers, torque wrench, and appropriate lubricants.
• Ensure your vehicle is on a flat surface.
• Use a breaker bar to loosen lug nuts before jacking the car up.

Step 2: Lift the Vehicle

• Position your jack underneath the vehicle at the designated jack point.
• Jack the car up and secure it with jack stands.
• Shake the car to ensure stability before proceeding.

Step 3: Remove the Wheel

• Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
• If necessary, clean the hub face where the wheel attaches.

Step 4: Access the Brake Caliper

• Use a 6mm Allen key to unscrew the caliper bolts.
• If the bolts are stuck, apply a penetrating oil and gently tap with a hammer.
• Carefully detach the caliper and hang it using a wire or a hook to avoid straining the brake line.

Step 5: Retract the Brake Piston

• Insert a screwdriver between the rotor and the brake pad to push the piston back.
• Be cautious if the brake fluid reservoir is full to prevent overflow.

Step 6: Remove Old Brake Components

• Take off the anti-rattle clip and old brake pads.
• Check the rotors for wear; if they are below the minimum thickness or have significant scoring, replace them.

Step 7: Install New Brake Rotors

• Clean the new rotors with brake cleaner to remove any protective film.
• Apply anti-seize to the hub face (avoid threads).
• Position the rotor and secure it with the rotor screw, tightening it to 12 ft-lbs.

Step 8: Prepare and Install New Brake Pads

• Apply a thin layer of ceramic silicone lubricant to the contact points where the pads slide.
• Install the new pads into the caliper bracket.
• Make sure the pads are positioned correctly and that the anti-rattle clip is properly seated.

Step 9: Reattach the Caliper

• Carefully lower the caliper over the new pads.
• Thread in the caliper bolts and tighten them to the specified torque: 21 ft-lbs for the slide pins and 81 ft-lbs for the caliper bracket bolts.

Step 10: Reinstall the Wheel

• Place the wheel back onto the hub.
• Hand-tighten the lug nuts, then lower the vehicle back to the ground.
• Torque the lug nuts to 85 ft-lbs, ensuring even tightening in a star pattern.

Step 11: Final Checks

• Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to reset the brake piston.
• Check for any leaks or unusual noises.

Step 12: Replace Brake Wear Sensor (if applicable)

• If your model includes a brake wear sensor, replace it during the installation of the new pads.
• Ensure proper routing and connection of the sensor to avoid issues.

Conclusion

Replacing the brakes on your BMW is a straightforward process that enhances your vehicle's performance. Always ensure to use quality components like Akebono ceramic pads and Zimmerman rotors for the best results. After installation, take it easy on the brakes for the first 500 to 1,000 miles to allow them to bed in properly. Regular brake maintenance not only improves safety but also extends the life of your braking system.