BMW i3 2014-present Brakes Specifications
BMW i3 2014-present

BMW i3 2014-present Brakes Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and guide for the 2014-Present BMW i3 brakes, covering front and rear brake components, materials, and maintenance tips.

Updated

Brake Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a detailed overview of the brake specifications for the 2014-Present BMW i3. It includes key technical details, components, and maintenance information to help users understand and utilize the braking system effectively. Use the search functionality to find specific details or navigate through the sections to explore different aspects of the brake system.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the search bar at the top of the document. Type in keywords related to the brake component or specification you are looking for. Results will be highlighted for quick identification.

Navigate through the document by scrolling through the sections or using the table of contents. Each section is organized by major brake components, with subsections providing detailed specifications and technical points.

Key Brake Specifications

Front Rotor Diameter

11.6 in (295 mm)

Rear Rotor Diameter

11.1 in (282 mm)

Braking Distance (100-0 km/h)

34.4 m

Brake Pad Type (Front)

Organic

Regenerative Braking Capacity

Up to 50 kW

Available Specifications

Brake System Overview

This section provides a general overview of the BMW i3 brake system, including its key components and functionality. It serves as a foundation for understanding the more detailed specifications provided in subsequent sections.

Key Components
  • Front and rear disc brakes with vented rotors
  • Electrically actuated brake system
  • Regenerative braking integration
  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
  • Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Brake Fluid and Hydraulic System
  • DOT 4 brake fluid recommended
  • Hydraulic brake actuation with electronic control
  • Pressure sensors for optimal braking performance
  • Automated brake fluid level monitoring

Front Brake Specifications

This section details the specifications of the front brake components, including rotor size, pad type, and caliper configuration.

Front Brake Rotor
  • Rotor diameter: 11.6 inches (295 mm)
  • Vented rotor design for improved heat dissipation
  • Made from high-carbon cast iron for durability
  • Minimum thickness: 0.79 inches (20 mm)
  • Maximum run-out: 0.0006 inches (15 μm)
Front Brake Pads
  • Organic brake pads for reduced noise and wear
  • Pad thickness: 0.43 inches (11 mm)
  • Wear sensor integrated for maintenance alerts
  • Operating temperature range: -40°F to 500°F (-40°C to 260°C)

Rear Brake Specifications

This section provides detailed information about the rear brake components, including rotor size, pad type, and caliper configuration.

Rear Brake Rotor
  • Rotor diameter: 11.1 inches (282 mm)
  • Solid rotor design for consistent braking performance
  • Made from high-carbon cast iron for durability
  • Minimum thickness: 0.63 inches (16 mm)
  • Maximum run-out: 0.0006 inches (15 μm)
Rear Brake Pads
  • Semi-metallic brake pads for increased durability
  • Pad thickness: 0.35 inches (9 mm)
  • Wear sensor integrated for maintenance alerts
  • Operating temperature range: -40°F to 500°F (-40°C to 260°C)

Electronic Brake Features

This section outlines the advanced electronic features of the BMW i3 brake system, including regenerative braking and stability control systems.

Regenerative Braking
  • Integrated with electric motor for energy recuperation
  • Variable regenerative braking modes
  • Max regenerative braking force: 0.3g
  • Energy recovery up to 50 kW
Electronic Stability Control
  • Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard
  • Cornering Brake Control (CBC) for stability
  • Automatic Brake Drying (ABD) in wet conditions
  • Hill Descent Control (HDC) for steep inclines

Brakes Specifications

Overview

Type
Regenerative braking system with electric parking brake
Configuration
Front-rear diagonal braking system
Platform
BMW i3 (2014-Present)
Material
Cast iron and aluminum components
Location
Front and rear axle

Dimensions

Front Rotor Diameter
11.6 in (295 mm)
Rear Rotor Diameter
11.0 in (280 mm)
Front Caliper Type
Single-piston floating caliper
Rear Caliper Type
Single-piston floating caliper
Front Pad Width
3.9 in (100 mm)
Rear Pad Width
3.5 in (90 mm)
Parking Brake Diameter
9.4 in (240 mm)

Materials

Front Rotor Material
Cast iron
Rear Rotor Material
Cast iron
Caliper Material
Aluminum alloy
Brake Pad Material
Ceramic composite
Brake Line Material
Steel-reinforced rubber

Features

Regenerative Braking
  • Recovers kinetic energy during deceleration
  • Integrated with electric motor
  • Enhances overall efficiency
Brake Assistant
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Driver-initiated override capability
  • Integrated with driver assistance systems
Driving Modes
  • Eco Pro mode optimized braking
  • Sport mode dynamic braking
  • Comfort mode balanced braking
Thermal Management
  • Ventilated front discs
  • Cooling ducts for consistent performance
  • Thermal protection for pads and rotors
Electronic Controls
  • Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Safety Features

ABS
  • Four-channel ABS system
  • Electronic traction control integration
EBD
  • Optimized brake force distribution
  • Reduces stopping distance under varying loads
Emergency Braking
  • Automatic activation in critical situations
  • Audible and visual warnings
Stability Control
  • Integrated with DSC system
  • Corrects vehicle attitude during hard braking

Comfort Features

Automatic Hold
  • Hill start assist
  • Traffic jam assist
  • Automatic brake hold in stop-and-go traffic
Creep Control
  • Low-speed crawling capability
  • Smooth transition from brake to accelerator
Comfort Braking
  • Progressive pedal feel
  • Noise reduction during low-speed braking
Emergency Brake Assist
  • Enhanced brake assist in panic stops
  • Full autobrake activation

Accessories

Brake Pads
  • Ceramic composite pads
  • Low dust pads available
  • High-performance pads optional
Rotors
  • Drilled and slotted rotors
  • Coated rotors for corrosion resistance
  • Lightweight rotor options
Fluid And Filters
  • High-performance brake fluid
  • Brake fluid reservoir filter
  • Brake system cleaner kit

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 12,000 miles or 12 months
Items To inspect
  • Brake pads and rotors
  • Brake fluid level and condition
  • Brake lines and hoses
  • Caliper operation
  • Parking brake function
Maintenance Notes
Inspect brake components for wear and damage. Replace brake fluid every 30,000 miles.

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Brake system components
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: Unlimited
Years: 12
Coverage: Perforation of brake rotors and drums
Maintenance Warranty
Miles: 36,000
Years: 3
Coverage: Brake fluid replacement
Battery Warranty
Miles: 100,000
Years: 8
Coverage: Regenerative braking system components

Production Details

Manufacturer
BMW Group
Manufacturing Process
  • CNC machining for rotors
  • Aluminum casting for calipers
  • Robotic assembly for brake systems
Quality Control
inspection: 100% visual and dimensional inspection
Testing: Dynamic testing on brake rigs
Certification: Compliance with global brake standards
Sustainability Practices
  • Recyclable materials in brake components
  • Low-energy manufacturing processes
  • Eco-friendly packaging and logistics
Production Metrics
Annual Production: Over 25,000 units
Market Regions: Global distribution
Supplier Network: Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers

Service Information for brakes Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

10,000
12
  • Inspect brake pads and rotors
  • Check brake fluid level and condition
  • Inspect brake lines and hoses
  • Test parking brake function
  • Check ABS and DSC system status

Initial service inspection. No major maintenance required unless issues are found.

20,000
24
  • Replace brake fluid
  • Clean brake calipers and sliders
  • Inspect brake pad wear sensors
  • Check rotor thickness
  • Test brake assist systems

Intermediate service. Address any wear items found during inspection.

50,000
60
  • Replace front and rear brake pads
  • Resurface or replace brake rotors
  • Inspect and replace brake lines if necessary
  • Bleed brake system
  • Perform dynamic brake test

Major service interval. Critical for maintaining optimal braking performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What are the technical specifications of the brakes on the 2014-Present BMW i3?

The 2014-Present BMW i3 features ventilated front and rear disc brakes. Front brake discs are 280mm in diameter, while rear discs are 276mm. The brake system is compatible with regenerative braking technology, optimizing energy recovery. The i3 uses DOT 4 brake fluid, and the brake pads are designed for electric vehicle-specific demands, ensuring optimal stopping performance and longevity.

Q2

What are the maintenance requirements for the brakes on the 2014-Present BMW i3?

Regular brake maintenance for the BMW i3 includes inspecting brake pads every 12,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's condition-based maintenance system. Brake fluid should be replaced every 2 years or 25,000 miles. Rotors should be inspected for wear and warping at each service interval. Additionally, the parking brake should be checked annually for proper function.

Q3

How do I replace the brake pads on a 2014-Present BMW i3?

To replace the brake pads on a BMW i3, start by safely lifting the vehicle and removing the wheels. Next, remove the caliper bolts and slide off the caliper. Take out the old brake pads and install the new ones, ensuring proper alignment. Reattach the caliper and tighten the bolts to the specified torque. Repeat for all wheels, then bleed the brake system if necessary and test the brakes before driving.

Q4

How do I troubleshoot common brake issues in the 2014-Present BMW i3?

If the brake warning light illuminates, check the brake fluid level and inspect for leaks. If the ABS light is on, scan for fault codes using a BMW-specific OBD-II tool. Spongy brakes may indicate air in the system, requiring bleeding. Unusual noises could signal worn pads or warped rotors. Always refer to the repair manual for detailed diagnostic procedures.

Q5

How can I optimize the braking performance of my BMW i3?

To optimize braking performance, ensure proper tire pressure and alignment. Avoid aggressive driving and use regenerative braking effectively. Keep brake pads and rotors clean and free from debris. Consider upgrading to high-performance brake pads for improved stopping power. Regular maintenance and inspections will also ensure consistent 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.

BMW i3 Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive service manual detailing technical specifications, maintenance schedules, and repair procedures for the BMW i3 brake system.

Brake System Technical Bulletin

Coming Soon

Official technical bulletin addressing updates, common issues, and service recommendations for the BMW i3 brake system.

BMW i3 Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Detailed catalog of genuine BMW parts, including brake components, for the 2014-Present BMW i3.

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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