BMW i8 2014-2020 Brakes Specifications
BMW i8 2014-2020

BMW i8 2014-2020 Brakes Specifications

Detailed brake specifications for the 2014-2020 BMW i8, including rotor size, caliper details, and braking performance metrics. Essential for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades.

Updated

Brake Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the brake specifications for the 2014-2020 BMW i8. It includes detailed information about the braking system, key components, and technical specifications. Use this guide to understand the design, functionality, and maintenance requirements of the braking system. Navigate through the sections to find specific details, and refer to the quick reference section for key specifications at a glance.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the search functionality to look for keywords related to brake components or specifications. This will help you quickly locate relevant details within the document.

To navigate through the document, use the sections menu to access major categories such as brake system overview, front brake specifications, rear brake specifications, and brake assistance systems. Each section contains subsections with detailed technical information.

Key Specifications

Front Brake Rotor Diameter

13.7 in (348 mm)

Rear Brake Rotor Diameter

13.4 in (340 mm)

Front Brake Caliper Pistons

4-piston fixed caliper

Rear Brake Caliper Pistons

2-piston fixed caliper

Brake Assistance Systems

EBD, Regenerative Braking, Auto Hold

Available Specifications

Brake System Overview

The BMW i8 features a advanced braking system designed for optimal performance, safety, and efficiency. This section provides an overview of the key components and technologies integrated into the braking system.

Key Components
  • Lightweight brake components for reduced unsprung mass
  • High-performance brake pads for consistent stopping power
  • Advanced brake cooling system for thermal management
  • Electronically controlled brake distribution for optimal stopping performance
  • Regenerative braking system to recover kinetic energy
Brake System Technologies
  • Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) for precise brake force application
  • Automatic Brake Drying to maintain braking efficiency in wet conditions
  • Fade Compensation to counteract brake fade during repeated use
  • Brake Standby to instantly apply brakes when a sudden maneuver is detected
  • Start-Off Assistant to prevent rolling on inclines

Front Brake Specifications

This section details the specifications of the front braking components, including the brake rotors, calipers, and pads.

Front Brake Rotor
  • Rotor diameter: 13.7 inches (348 mm)
  • Rotor thickness: 1.2 inches (30 mm)
  • Ventilated design for improved heat dissipation
  • Made from high-carbon cast iron for durability
  • Weight-optimized design to reduce unsprung mass
Front Brake Caliper
  • Fixed 4-piston aluminum caliper
  • Piston diameter: 1.97 inches (50 mm)
  • Caliper finish: BMW-specific coating for corrosion resistance
  • Caliper weight reduction through optimized design
Front Brake Pads
  • High-friction coefficient for consistent stopping power
  • Low dust formulation to minimize brake dust
  • Wear sensors for pad wear monitoring
  • Engineered for low noise and vibration
  • Compatible with high-performance driving conditions

Rear Brake Specifications

This section provides detailed specifications for the rear braking components, including the brake rotors, calipers, and pads.

Rear Brake Rotor
  • Rotor diameter: 13.4 inches (340 mm)
  • Rotor thickness: 0.98 inches (25 mm)
  • Ventilated design for efficient heat management
  • Constructed from high-strength cast iron
  • Optimized for reduced weight without compromising performance
Rear Brake Caliper
  • Fixed 2-piston aluminum caliper
  • Piston diameter: 1.38 inches (35 mm)
  • Caliper finish: Durable, corrosion-resistant coating
  • Weight reduction through optimized caliper design
Rear Brake Pads
  • High-performance friction material for reliable stopping power
  • Low dust formulation for reduced maintenance
  • Integrated wear sensors for monitoring pad wear
  • Engineered to minimize noise and vibration
  • Suitable for both daily driving and spirited performance

Brake Assistance Systems

The BMW i8 is equipped with advanced brake assistance systems that enhance safety, performance, and driving convenience. This section details the key systems and their functions.

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
  • Sensors monitor driving conditions and vehicle dynamics
  • Automatically adjusts brake force distribution between front and rear axles
  • Enhances stability and control during braking
  • Works in conjunction with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
  • Optimizes braking performance on various road surfaces
Regenerative Braking System
  • Captures kinetic energy during deceleration and braking
  • Stores energy in the high-voltage battery
  • Reduces wear on the mechanical braking system
  • Provides smoother and more efficient deceleration
  • Integrates with the electric motor for enhanced energy recovery
Automatic Hold Function
  • Maintains braking pressure after coming to a stop
  • Prevents rolling on inclines or declines
  • Reduces driver fatigue in stop-and-go traffic
  • Automatically releases when the accelerator is pressed
  • Integrated with the electronic parking brake

Brakes Specifications

Overview

Type
carbon-ceramic
Configuration
dual-circuit with brake booster
Platform
BMW Life Drive Architecture
Material
carbon-ceramic composite
Location
all-wheel disc brakes

Dimensions

Front Rotor Diameter
13.7 in (348 mm)
Rear Rotor Diameter
13.1 in (332 mm)
Front Rotor Thickness
1.1 in (28 mm)
Rear Rotor Thickness
1.0 in (25 mm)
Minimum Rotor Thickness
0.78 in (19.8 mm)
Front Caliper Piston Diameter
1.97 in (50 mm)
Rear Caliper Piston Diameter
1.38 in (35 mm)
Brake Pad Width
0.47 in (12 mm) front, 0.35 in (9 mm) rear

Materials

Front Rotor
carbon-ceramic composite
Rear Rotor
carbon-ceramic composite
Brake Pads
high-performance composite friction material
Calipers
aluminum alloy
Brake Lines
steel-reinforced rubber

Features

Regenerative Braking Integration
  • hybrid braking system
  • energy recuperation during deceleration
  • electronic brake force distribution
Advanced Brake Systems
  • automatic emergency braking
  • brake assistant
  • dynamic brake control
Additional Brake Technologies
  • cornering brake control
  • electronic parking brake
  • auto-dry brake system

Safety Features

Anti-Lock Braking System
  • four-channel ABS
  • electronic brakeforce distribution
Stability Control integration
  • dynamic stability control
  • traction control
Emergency Brake Assist
automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Brake Fade Compensation
active brake cooling system

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • anti-squeal shims
  • sound-dampening brake pads
Pedal Feel Optimization
  • variable brake pedal feel
  • progressive brake actuation
Temperature Management
ventilated brake rotors
Low Dust Brake Pads
low-dust, high-performance brake pads

Accessories

Performance Brake Upgrades
  • high-performance brake pads
  • upgraded brake rotors
  • brake cooling kits
Brake Maintenance Accessories
  • brake fluid upgrade
  • brake cleaner kit
  • brake lubricant
Aesthetic Accessories
  • colored brake calipers
  • brake caliper covers
  • brake rotor aesthetics

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 12,000 miles or 12 months
Service Items
  • inspect brake pads and rotors
  • check brake fluid level and condition
  • inspect brake lines and hoses
  • test brake system performance
  • clean and lubricate brake components
Maintenance Notes
Use BMW-approved brake components and fluids only

Warranty

New Car Warranty
Miles: unlimited
Years: 4
Coverage: parts and labor
Extended Warranty
Miles: 100000
Years: 6
Coverage: parts and labor
Maintenance Plan
Miles: 36000
Years: 3
Coverage: scheduled maintenance
Wear Item Warranty
Miles: 24000
Years: 2
Coverage: brake pads and rotors

Production Details

Manufacturer
Brembo S.p.A.
Manufacturing Process
  • precision machining
  • high-temperature kiln firing
  • advanced surface coating
  • quality control testing
Quality Control
inspection: 100% visual and dimensional inspection
Testing: performance testing on brake dyno
Sustainability Practices
use of recycled materials in brake components
Production Metrics
Annual Production: 20,000 units
Warranty Claim Rate: less than 1%
Average Service Life: 10 years or 150,000 miles

Service Information for brakes Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to BMW i8 brakes

15,000
12
  • inspect brake pads for wear
  • measure rotor thickness
  • check brake fluid level and condition
  • inspect brake lines and hoses
  • clean brake components

Ensure no excessive wear on brake components

30,000
24
  • replace brake pads
  • resurface brake rotors
  • replace brake fluid
  • inspect brake calipers
  • check ABS sensors

Use synthetic brake fluid meeting BMW standards

60,000
48
  • replace brake pads and rotors
  • flush and replace brake fluid
  • clean and lubricate brake calipers
  • test ABS system performance
  • inspect brake system components

Essential for maintaining optimal brake performance and safety

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What are the technical specifications of the brakes for the 2014-2020 BMW i8?

The 2014-2020 BMW i8 features a high-performance braking system with 13.4-inch vented disc brakes at the front and 12.8-inch vented disc brakes at the rear. The system includes fixed four-piston front calipers and floating single-piston rear calipers. The brakes are compatible with the i8's lightweight body and hybrid powertrain, ensuring optimal stopping power and heat dissipation. The system is designed to work seamlessly with the vehicle's advanced driver assistance systems.

Q2

What are the maintenance requirements for the brakes on the BMW i8?

The BMW i8's brakes require regular inspection every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. Brake pads should be replaced when worn below 3mm, and rotors should be inspected for warping or excessive wear. The brake fluid should be changed every 30,000 miles, and the entire system should be checked for leaks and proper function. It is recommended to use BMW-approved parts and follow the manufacturer's service intervals for optimal performance.

Q3

How do I install or replace the brakes on the BMW i8?

To replace the brakes on the BMW i8, start by lifting the vehicle and removing the wheels. Inspect the brake pads and rotors, and remove the calipers while taking care not to damage the brake hoses. Install new pads and rotors, ensuring proper alignment and torque specifications. Reinstall the calipers, bleed the brake system to remove air bubbles, and test the brakes thoroughly before driving. Always follow proper safety procedures and consult a professional if unsure.

Q4

How do I troubleshoot common brake issues in the BMW i8?

Common brake issues in the BMW i8 include spongy brake feel, uneven braking, and brake light warnings. Start by checking the brake fluid level and inspecting for leaks. Use a scan tool to read any fault codes from the ABS module. Inspect the pads and rotors for wear, and check the brake sensors for proper function. If issues persist, consult a certified BMW technician for advanced diagnostics and repairs.

Q5

How can I optimize the performance of the BMW i8's brakes?

To optimize the performance of the BMW i8's brakes, ensure proper maintenance by using high-quality, BMW-approved brake pads and rotors. Regularly clean the brake components to prevent contamination and corrosion. Drive defensively to avoid excessive braking, and consider upgrading to high-performance brake pads for improved stopping power. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for brake fluid and system maintenance.

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 i8 Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide covering maintenance, repair, and technical specifications for the 2014-2020 BMW i8.

Technical Bulletin: Brake System Update

Coming Soon

Official technical bulletin detailing updates and improvements to the braking system for the BMW i8.

BMW i8 Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Detailed catalog of genuine BMW parts, including brake components, for the 2014-2020 i8 model.

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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