BMW 550i 2017-present Brakes Specifications
BMW 550i 2017-present

BMW 550i 2017-present Brakes Specifications

A detailed guide to the braking system of the 2017-Present BMW 550i, including rotor sizes, caliper specs, and advanced features.

Updated

Brake System Specifications Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the brake system specifications for the 2017-Present BMW 550i. It includes detailed technical information, key features, and operational guidelines. Use this document to understand the components, performance metrics, and maintenance requirements of the braking system. Refer to the sections below for specific details and the quick reference guide for key specifications.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the browser's find function (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F). Enter keywords related to the brake system, such as 'rotor size' or 'caliper type', to locate relevant sections quickly.

Navigate through the document by scrolling through the sections. Each section is organized hierarchically, starting with major categories like 'Brake System Overview' and 'Performance Metrics', followed by subsections with detailed specifications.

Key Specifications

Front Brake Rotor Diameter

14.0 inches (355 mm)

Rear Brake Rotor Diameter

13.6 inches (345 mm)

Brake Caliper Type (Front/Rear)

4-piston / 2-piston

Brake Rotor Material

High-carbon cast iron

Stopping Distance (0-60 mph)

Approx. 120 feet

Available Specifications

Brake System Overview

This section provides a general overview of the brake system, including its primary components and key features. It serves as a starting point for understanding the braking technology employed in the 2017-Present BMW 550i.

Key Components
  • Ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels
  • Dual-circuit braking system with diagonal split
  • Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Regenerative braking system (if equipped with hybrid technology)
Brake Calipers
  • 4-piston fixed calipers at the front
  • 2-piston fixed calipers at the rear
  • High-performance brake pads with low dust properties
  • Calipers finished in BMW's signature color

Brake Rotor Specifications

This section details the specifications of the brake rotors, including their dimensions, materials, and cooling mechanisms. The information provided is essential for maintenance and upgrade planning.

Front Brake Rotors
  • Rotor diameter: 14.0 inches (355 mm)
  • Rotor thickness: 1.1 inches (28 mm)
  • Ventilated design for enhanced heat dissipation
  • Made from high-carbon cast iron for durability
  • Drilled rotor design for improved cooling and reduced weight
Rear Brake Rotors
  • Rotor diameter: 13.6 inches (345 mm)
  • Rotor thickness: 0.9 inches (22 mm)
  • Ventilated design for consistent braking performance
  • Made from high-carbon cast iron for longevity
  • Drilled rotor design for optimized heat management

Brake Performance Metrics

This section outlines the performance metrics of the brake system, including stopping distances and fade resistance. These metrics are crucial for understanding the braking capabilities of the vehicle.

Stopping Distances
  • 0-60 mph stopping distance: approximately 120 feet
  • 100-0 mph stopping distance: approximately 330 feet
  • Consistent stopping performance across multiple cycles
  • Reduced stopping distances in wet conditions due to advanced ABS
  • Optimized brake pedal feel for precise control
Fade Resistance
  • High resistance to brake fade under heavy use
  • Advanced cooling systems minimize heat buildup
  • High-performance brake pads maintain consistent friction levels
  • Electronic systems compensate for heat-related performance loss
  • Minimal reduction in braking efficiency during repeated stops

Brakes Specifications

Overview

Type
Ventilated disc brakes
Configuration
Front and rear
Platform
G30
Material
Steel discs, Aluminum calipers
Location
Front and rear axles

Dimensions

Front Rotor Diameter
13.7 in (348 mm)
Rear Rotor Diameter
13.0 in (330 mm)
Front Rotor Thickness
1.2 in (30 mm)
Rear Rotor Thickness
1.2 in (30 mm)
Front Caliper Piston Diameter
4.0 in (102 mm)
Rear Caliper Piston Diameter
2.8 in (71 mm)
Brake Pad Thickness
0.4 in (10 mm)

Materials

Rotor
Steel
Caliper
Aluminum alloy
Brake Pads
High-friction organic compound
Wear Sensors
Rubber or silicone

Features

Adaptive Brake Modes
  • Comfort
  • Sport
  • Sport+
Brake Assist Features
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Brake pre-tensioning
  • Rain brake support
Cooling Systems
  • Front and rear rotor ventilation
  • Caliper cooling ducts
Electronic Controls
  • ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
  • EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
  • DBC (Dynamic Brake Control)
Monitoring Systems
  • Brake pad wear monitoring
  • Brake fluid level sensor
  • Brake system status display
Additional Features
  • Brake hold function
  • Hill descent control
  • Automatic brake drying

Safety Features

Emergency Braking
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Emergency brake assist
Stability Control
  • Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
  • Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
Collision Prevention
  • Active Driving Assistant
  • City Collision Mitigation

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Noise-dampening brake pads
  • Optimized rotor surface finish
Smooth Operation
  • Progressive brake pedal feel
  • Smooth transition between brake modes
Convenience
  • Auto hold function
  • Brake assistant in traffic jams

Accessories

High Performance
  • M Sport brake kit
  • Ceramic brake rotor upgrade
  • High-performance brake pads
Aesthetic
  • Painted calipers
  • Engraved brake calipers
  • Decorative rotor caps
Functional
  • Brake cooling kits
  • Brake duct upgrades
  • Performance brake fluid

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 12,000 to 15,000 miles
Service Items
  • Brake pad inspection
  • Rotor inspection and resurfacing
  • Brake fluid check and replacement
  • Caliper lubrication
  • Brake hose inspection
  • ABS sensor cleaning
Maintenance Notes
  • Recommended to use BMW-approved parts
  • Brake fluid should be replaced every 2 years
  • Rotor replacement recommended if thickness falls below minimum specification

Warranty

Basic
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Parts and labor
Maintenance
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Select maintenance items
Accessories
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Genuine BMW accessories
Corrosion
Miles: 12 years
Years: Unlimited
Coverage: Perforation of body panels

Production Details

Manufacturer
BMW Group
Manufacturing Process
  • CNC machining of rotors
  • Aluminum alloy casting for calipers
  • High-temperature treatment for brake pads
  • Precision assembly and testing
Quality Control
inspection: 100% inspection of critical components
Testing: Performance testing under various conditions
Certifications: Compliance with global braking standards
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycling of materials
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing processes
  • Eco-friendly packaging and logistics
Production Metrics
Annual Production: Over 100,000 units
Facilities: Manufactured in BMW's global plants
Quality Rating: ISO/TS 16949:2002 certified

Service Information for brakes Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

12,500
12
  • Inspect brake pads and rotors
  • Check brake fluid level and condition
  • Test ABS and DSC systems
  • Clean brake sensors
  • Lubricate brake caliper pins

Standard maintenance interval, no major replacements expected.

25,000
24
  • Replace brake pads if worn below 3mm
  • Resurface or replace rotors if needed
  • Replace brake fluid
  • Inspect brake hoses for cracks or damage
  • Clean and lubricate brake components

More extensive service, may require additional repairs based on inspection.

50,000
48
  • Replace rear brake pads
  • Inspect and replace front brake pads if necessary
  • Replace rear brake rotors if warped or worn
  • Bleed brake system
  • Inspect ABS sensors and wiring

Major service interval, ensure all components are checked thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What are the technical specifications of the brakes on a 2017-Present BMW 550i?

The 2017-Present BMW 550i features a braking system with vented disc brakes front and rear. The front brakes consist of 374mm rotors with 4-piston fixed calipers, while the rear features 370mm rotors with 2-piston fixed calipers. The system is compatible with BMW's Dynamic Brake Control and Brake Assist. The brake fluid recommended is DOT 4, and the brake pads are designed for high performance with a heat-resistant friction material.

Q2

What maintenance is required for the brakes on a 2017-Present BMW 550i?

Regular brake maintenance includes inspecting brake pads every 10,000-15,000 miles, replacing them when worn below 3mm, and checking rotors for excessive wear or warping. Brake fluid should be replaced every 2 years or as specified in the service manual. Cleaning brake components with a brake cleaner and ensuring proper lubrication of moving parts are also recommended.

Q3

How do I replace the brake pads on a 2017-Present BMW 550i?

To replace the brake pads, start by lifting the vehicle and removing the wheels. Remove the caliper bolts and slide the caliper off the rotor. Take out the old pads and install the new ones, ensuring proper alignment. Reinstall the caliper and tighten the bolts to the specified torque (approximately 40-50 Nm). Bleed the brake system if necessary and test the brakes before driving.

Q4

How do I troubleshoot common brake issues on a 2017-Present BMW 550i?

Common issues include spongy brakes (air in the system), grinding noises (worn pads or rotors), or a brake warning light. Check the brake fluid level and condition, inspect pads and rotors for wear, and ensure proper system bleeding. If issues persist, consult a professional technician to diagnose and repair problems like ABS sensor malfunctions or hydraulic system leaks.

Q5

How can I optimize the performance of my BMW 550i brakes?

For optimal performance, use high-quality brake pads designed for high thermal loads. Ensure proper cooling by cleaning brake ducts and maintaining proper alignment. Avoid aggressive driving that overheats the brakes, and consider upgrading to performance rotors or high-performance brake fluid (e.g., DOT 5.1). Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial for maintaining peak braking performance.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

2017-Present BMW 550i Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide covering maintenance, repair, and technical specifications for the BMW 550i braking system.

BMW Technical Bulletin: Brake System Updates

Coming Soon

Summary of updates, recalls, and technical improvements for the braking system of 2017-Present BMW 550i models.

BMW Parts Catalog: Brake Components

Coming Soon

Detailed list of genuine BMW brake parts, including pads, rotors, and fluid for the 2017-Present 550i.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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