BMW 640i 2011-2018 Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications & Fastener Values
BMW 640i 2011-2018

BMW 640i 2011-2018 Brake System Bolt Torque Specifications

Detailed torque specifications for brake caliper bolts, rotor retaining screws, and other brake-related fasteners on the 2011-2018 BMW 6 Series (F12/F13/F06) 640i models.

Updated

Important Information

Safety guidelines and reference information for proper torque application

Quick Reference Guide
ft-lbs → Nm
× 1.356
ft-lbs → kg-m
× 0.138
Nm → ft-lbs
× 0.738
in-lbs → ft-lbs
× 0.083

Common Torque Patterns

Star Pattern

Used for wheels and other circular bolt patterns

Star Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Cross Pattern

Used for gaskets and cover plates

Cross Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence
Sequential Pattern

Used for head bolts and other critical components

Sequential Pattern torque pattern diagram showing proper bolt tightening sequence

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-tightening

Exceeding the specified torque value can stretch or break fasteners, damage threads, or crack components.

Prevention:

Always use a calibrated torque wrench and follow specifications exactly.

Incorrect Torque Sequence

Tightening bolts in the wrong order can cause uneven pressure distribution and potential leaks or damage.

Prevention:

Follow the manufacturer's specified torque sequence pattern.

Dirty Threads

Dirt, rust, or old thread locker can affect torque readings and proper fastener tension.

Prevention:

Clean and inspect all threads before assembly. Use new thread locker if specified.

Reusing TTY Bolts

Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to stretch and must not be reused.

Prevention:

Always replace TTY bolts with new ones. They are single-use only.

Dry vs. Lubricated

Not accounting for whether torque specs are for dry or lubricated fasteners can lead to incorrect tension.

Prevention:

Check if specs are for dry or lubricated threads. Use specified lubricant when required.

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/4" Drive)

Range: 2-25 ft-lbs
Small fasteners, delicate components

Torque Wrench (3/8" Drive)

Range: 10-100 ft-lbs
Most common automotive fasteners

Torque Wrench (1/2" Drive)

Range: 30-250 ft-lbs
Large fasteners, wheels

Angle Gauge

Torque-to-yield (TTY) bolts

Torque Wrench Care

  • Calibrate annually or after 5,000 clicks
  • Store at lowest setting
  • Keep clean and lubricated

Search Specifications

Search by component name, bolt size, or description

Torque Calculator

Convert between different torque units

Brake Caliper

Torque specifications for components directly related to the brake caliper, including mounting and guide pins.

1

Brake Caliper Mounting Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
85 ft-lbs (115 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the caliper to the mounting bracket. Ensure proper torque for secure caliper positioning.
2

Brake Caliper Guide Pin Bolts/Screws

M8 x 1.25
Torque Value
20 ft-lbs (27 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the guide pins, which allow the caliper to float. Proper torque is critical for even pad wear.
3

Brake Caliper Bleeder Valve

M10 x 1.0
Torque Value
10 ft-lbs (14 N·m)
Important Notes
Ensure proper sealing during brake bleeding. Overtightening can damage the valve; use a torque wrench.

Caliper Bracket

Specifications for the bracket that secures the caliper to the vehicle's suspension.

1

Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket Bolts

M14 x 1.5
Torque Value
130 ft-lbs (176 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the mounting bracket to the steering knuckle or hub carrier. High torque is required to withstand braking forces.

Brake Rotor

Torque specs for securing the brake rotor to the hub.

1

Brake Disc/Rotor Retaining Bolts

M12 x 1.5
Torque Value
100 ft-lbs (136 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the brake rotor to the hub, ensuring it remains firmly in place. Proper torque is critical to prevent rotor from being loose.

Brake Lines

Specifications for brake line fittings at the caliper and master cylinder.

1

Brake Line Fittings (at Caliper)

M10 x 1.0
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Approximate value; confirm if different. Essential for preventing leaks. Avoid overtightening.
2

Brake Line Fittings (at Master Cylinder)

M12 x 1.0
Torque Value
15 ft-lbs (20 N·m)
Important Notes
Approximate value; confirm if different. Essential for preventing leaks. Avoid overtightening.

Brake Pad Sensor

Torque specs for securing the brake pad wear sensor.

1

Brake Pad Wear Sensor Screw

M4 x 0.7
Torque Value
7 ft-lbs (9 N·m)
Important Notes
These small screws secure the wear sensor to the pad. Overtightening can cause damage. Estimated Value.

Abs Sensor

Torque specifications for the ABS sensor mounting bolts.

1

ABS Sensor Mounting Bolts

M6 x 1.0
Torque Value
8 ft-lbs (11 N·m)
Important Notes
These bolts secure the ABS sensor to the knuckle or hub. Low torque is needed to prevent damage. Estimated Value.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common issues, diagnostic steps, and prevention guidelines

Common Issues

Bolt stretching, stripped threads, uneven torque patterns

Loose Components

Symptoms:
  • Rattling or vibration noises
  • Visible movement in components
  • Uneven panel gaps
Solutions:
  • Clean threads and mounting surfaces
  • Replace damaged fasteners
  • Apply proper torque in sequence
  • Use thread locker if specified

Stripped Fasteners

Symptoms:
  • Unable to achieve proper torque
  • Fastener spins freely
  • Visible thread damage
Solutions:
  • Use thread repair kit if appropriate
  • Install thread insert (HeliCoil)
  • Replace component if threaded hole is damaged
  • Upgrade to higher grade fastener if recommended

Overtightened Components

Symptoms:
  • Cracked or deformed parts
  • Broken fasteners
  • Compressed gaskets or seals
Solutions:
  • Replace damaged components
  • Use new fasteners
  • Follow proper torque sequence
  • Verify correct torque specifications

Diagnostic Steps

Visual inspection, torque verification, thread assessment

1

Visual Inspection

Inspect the affected area for any visible signs of damage or wear

  • Check for cracks or deformation
  • Look for signs of excessive wear
  • Verify proper fastener installation
2

Torque Verification

Verify the torque applied to the fasteners

  • Check the torque wrench calibration
  • Verify the torque specification
  • Compare the applied torque to the specification
3

Thread Assessment

Assess the condition of the threads

  • Check for signs of thread damage
  • Verify the thread type and size
  • Check for proper thread engagement

Prevention Guidelines

Best practices, maintenance tips, tool care

Best Practices

  • Always follow the recommended torque specification
  • Use the correct type and size of fasteners
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration regularly

Maintenance Tips

  • Regularly inspect the affected area for signs of wear or damage
  • Replace damaged or worn-out components promptly
  • Keep the work area clean and organized

Tool Care

  • Regularly clean and maintain the torque wrench
  • Store the torque wrench in a dry and secure location
  • Verify the torque wrench calibration before each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What happens if I overtighten brake caliper bolts?

Overtightening caliper bolts can stretch or damage the threads on the caliper or the mounting bracket. This can lead to premature failure, difficulty removing the bolts later, and potentially dangerous situations if the bolt fails while driving. For example, if a caliper bolt is severely overtorqued, it might snap during a hard braking maneuver, causing the caliper to detach and impair braking.

Q2

What happens if I undertighten brake caliper bolts?

Undertightening caliper bolts means they might loosen over time due to vibration and heat cycling. This can lead to brake caliper movement, uneven pad wear, unusual noises, and, in a worst-case scenario, the caliper completely detaching. Imagine a long downhill drive with constant braking; undertightened bolts could gradually work loose, eventually causing a loss of braking power.

Q3

Should I use thread locker on brake caliper bolts?

While not strictly required for all brake caliper bolts, using a medium-strength thread locker (like Loctite 242 or equivalent) is often recommended, especially on bolts that are repeatedly removed. Thread locker helps prevent bolts from loosening due to vibration, which is common in braking systems. However, ensure the threads and bolts are clean and torque the bolts to the specified value even when using thread locker.

Q4

How often should I check the torque on my brake caliper bolts?

It's a good practice to check the torque on your brake caliper bolts during regular maintenance or if you've recently had any brake work performed. Ideally, check them after the first 50-100 miles after brake work and then during your regular tire rotation or other inspections. This is because new pads or rotor replacements can settle and make the bolts loosen slightly in the first few drives.

Q5

Are the torque specifications the same for front and rear brakes?

Generally, no. The torque specifications for the front and rear brake caliper bolts on a 2011-2018 BMW 640i will usually be different. Always refer to the specific repair manual for your car. For example, front caliper carrier bolts might be torqued higher than the rear due to the greater braking forces experienced in the front.

Environmental Considerations

Temperature, humidity, and seasonal effects on torque specifications

Temperature Effects

Includes: High Heat, Cold Weather, Thermal Cycling

Temperature can significantly impact torque values and fastener behavior

Cold Weather

Effects:
  • Increased material brittleness
  • Higher torque required due to thread contraction
  • Reduced thread lubricant effectiveness
Recommendations:
  • Allow components to warm to room temperature when possible
  • Consider using winter-grade thread lubricants
  • Check torque values more frequently during winter months

Hot Weather

Effects:
  • Thermal expansion of components
  • Decreased friction in threads
  • Accelerated lubricant breakdown
Recommendations:
  • Check torque when components are at normal operating temperature
  • Use temperature-resistant thread lockers
  • Consider re-torquing after heat cycles

Humidity and Corrosion

Covers: Rust Prevention, Salt Exposure, Moisture Control

Moisture and corrosion can affect fastener integrity and torque values

High Humidity

Effects:
  • Accelerated corrosion formation
  • Reduced friction coefficient
  • Potential thread seizing
Prevention:
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners
  • Apply appropriate anti-seize compounds
  • Maintain proper protective coatings

Salt Exposure

Effects:
  • Rapid corrosion development
  • Thread damage
  • Seized fasteners
Prevention:
  • Regular underbody washing
  • Use of sacrificial anodes where appropriate
  • Application of protective coatings

Seasonal Maintenance

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter maintenance schedules

Spring

  • Inspect for winter damage
  • Clean and protect exposed fasteners
  • Check torque on critical components

Summer

  • Monitor heat-affected components
  • Check expansion-related loosening
  • Inspect cooling system mounts

Fall

  • Prepare for winter conditions
  • Apply corrosion protection
  • Verify all fasteners are properly torqued

Winter

  • More frequent inspection of critical fasteners
  • Check for salt damage
  • Monitor suspension component torque

Related Resources

Tools, service procedures, and technical bulletins

Recommended Tools

Torque Wrench (1/2 inch drive)

A calibrated torque wrench is essential for accurately tightening bolts to specified torque values.

  • Accurate torque measurement
  • Click-type mechanism for audible and tactile feedback
Learn more

Torque Wrench (3/8 inch drive)

A smaller drive torque wrench for smaller fasteners and tighter spaces.

  • Accurate torque measurement
  • Click-type mechanism for audible and tactile feedback
Learn more

Socket Set (Metric)

A comprehensive set of metric sockets to fit various bolt and nut sizes on the brake system.

  • Various sizes to fit all brake components
  • Impact and standard socket options
Learn more

Brake Caliper Wind-Back Tool

Required to retract the brake caliper pistons for pad replacement. Note: Some rear calipers on BMW’s require rotation while pushing.

  • Specific adapters for different brake calipers
  • Prevents damage to caliper piston seals
Learn more

Brake Rotor Retaining Screw Driver

Some BMW rotors use retaining screws which will need a specific screwdriver

  • Proper bit size and head
Learn more
Service Procedures

Front Brake Caliper Removal and Installation

Procedure for safely removing and reinstalling the front brake calipers, ensuring correct torque application.

  • Loosen lug nuts, lift the vehicle, and remove the wheel.
  • Disconnect the brake pad wear sensor if equipped.
  • Remove the caliper guide bolts. Note the bolt type, often different front to back.
  • Remove the brake caliper from the rotor bracket.
  • Clean and inspect caliper and bracket.
  • Install the brake caliper using new caliper bolts.
  • Tighten guide bolts to specified torque of 30 Nm + 45 degrees for the caliper to bracket and 110 Nm for the caliper to knuckle.
  • Reinstall the brake pad wear sensor.
  • Reinstall the wheel and lower vehicle, torque lug nuts to spec.
View full procedure

Rear Brake Caliper Removal and Installation

Procedure for safely removing and reinstalling the rear brake calipers, ensuring correct torque application.

  • Loosen lug nuts, lift the vehicle, and remove the wheel.
  • Disconnect the brake pad wear sensor if equipped.
  • Remove the caliper guide bolts. Note the bolt type, often different front to back.
  • Remove the brake caliper from the rotor bracket. Be careful as the parking brake mechanism may require special attention.
  • Clean and inspect caliper and bracket.
  • Install the brake caliper using new caliper bolts.
  • Tighten guide bolts to specified torque of 30 Nm + 45 degrees for the caliper to bracket and 110 Nm for the caliper to knuckle.
  • Reinstall the brake pad wear sensor.
  • Reinstall the wheel and lower vehicle, torque lug nuts to spec.
View full procedure

Front Brake Rotor Removal and Installation

Procedure for removing and installing the front brake rotor, ensuring correct torque application for any retaining screws or bolts.

  • Loosen lug nuts, lift the vehicle, and remove the wheel.
  • Remove the brake caliper (refer to caliper procedure).
  • Remove the brake rotor retaining screw if equipped (use the proper driver)
  • Remove the brake rotor from the hub.
  • Clean and inspect rotor mating surfaces.
  • Install the brake rotor and retaining screw if equipped. Torque retaining screw to manufacturer specifications if applicable
  • Reinstall the brake caliper (refer to caliper procedure).
  • Reinstall the wheel and lower vehicle, torque lug nuts to spec.
View full procedure

Rear Brake Rotor Removal and Installation

Procedure for removing and installing the rear brake rotor, ensuring correct torque application for any retaining screws or bolts.

  • Loosen lug nuts, lift the vehicle, and remove the wheel.
  • Remove the brake caliper (refer to caliper procedure).
  • Remove the brake rotor retaining screw if equipped (use the proper driver)
  • Remove the brake rotor from the hub. Be aware of the parking brake shoe as it may need adjustment
  • Clean and inspect rotor mating surfaces.
  • Install the brake rotor and retaining screw if equipped. Torque retaining screw to manufacturer specifications if applicable
  • Reinstall the brake caliper (refer to caliper procedure).
  • Reinstall the wheel and lower vehicle, torque lug nuts to spec.
View full procedure

Brake Pad Replacement (Front and Rear)

General procedure for replacing brake pads, referencing previous procedures.

  • Remove the brake caliper (refer to caliper removal procedure).
  • Remove the old brake pads.
  • Clean the caliper and bracket areas thoroughly.
  • Install new brake pads, being sure they are properly seated
  • If the rear caliper, use the caliper wind-back tool to push the piston in to allow for the thickness of new pads
  • Reinstall the brake caliper (refer to caliper installation procedure).
  • Test brake pedal pressure before moving.
View full procedure
Technical Service Bulletins

Brake Squeal Issue - Low Mileage

2016-05-15

Some vehicles may experience brake squeal at low speeds and low mileage. This can be attributed to pad material and rotor surface finish.

2011-2018 BMW 640i

Resolution: Inspect the rotor surface for proper finish and ensure pad edges are chamfered. In severe cases, replace pads and rotors with upgraded versions.

Rear Brake Parking Mechanism Adjustment Procedure

2015-03-20

A technical bulletin outlining the procedure for adjusting the parking brake mechanism on models equipped with rear disc brakes and an integral parking brake.

2011-2018 BMW 640i

Resolution: Use the parking brake adjustment mechanism accessible through the rear rotor hub. Adjustment should follow the provided procedure.

About the Author

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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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