BMW i8 2014-2020 Suspension Specifications
BMW i8 2014-2020

BMW i8 2014-2020 Suspension Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the suspension system of the 2014-2020 BMW i8, including adaptive suspension, alignment settings, and component-specific torque values. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the suspension specifications for the 2014-2020 BMW i8, including key features, measurements, and technical details. This section covers the advanced suspension system designed for optimal performance, handling, and comfort.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific suspension components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'front suspension', 'rear suspension', or 'damping system'.

Navigate through the suspension documentation using the table of contents or by scrolling through the sections. Each section is clearly labeled for easy access to specific details.

Key Specifications

Front Suspension Type

Double Wishbone

Rear Suspension Type

Five-Link

Steering Ratio

15.4:1

Front Anti-Roll Bar Diameter

24 mm

Rear Tire Size

215/45 R20

Available Specifications

Front Suspension

Details about the front suspension system, including its design, components, and technical specifications.

Double Wishbone Design
  • Independent double wishbone suspension for precise handling
  • Aluminum control arms for reduced weight
  • Spring and damper units mounted separately
  • Anti-roll bar diameter: 24 mm
Damping System
  • Electronically controlled dampers for adaptive ride comfort
  • Damping force adjustment range: 0-100%
  • Response time: <20 ms
  • Integrated with BMW's Dynamic Damper Control (DDC)

Note: The damping system adjusts automatically based on driving conditions and selected driving mode.

Rear Suspension

Technical details of the rear suspension system, including its unique features and specifications.

Five-Link Suspension
  • Independent five-link rear suspension for stability
  • Aluminum components for weight reduction
  • Anti-roll bar diameter: 22 mm
  • Wheel camber adjustment range: -1.5° to +1.5°
Air Suspension
  • Optional air suspension for rear axle
  • Load leveling capability up to 100 kg
  • Height adjustment range: 15 mm
  • Integrated with vehicle's driving dynamics system

Note: The air suspension system is available as part of the optional Dynamic Package.

Steering System

Information about the steering system and its integration with the suspension for enhanced handling.

Electric Power Steering
  • Electromechanical power steering system
  • Steering ratio: 15.4:1
  • Turning circle: 11.4 m
  • Integrated with Active Steering for improved agility
Steering Dynamics
  • Variable steering assist based on speed
  • Steering wheel angle range: ±720°
  • Feedback system for precise control
  • Integrated with suspension for cornering stability

Wheel and Tire Specifications

Details about the wheel and tire setup, including sizes, types, and compatibility with the suspension system.

Wheel Specifications
  • Front wheel size: 20x7.5 inches
  • Rear wheel size: 20x8.5 inches
  • Wheel material: Lightweight alloy
  • Wheel offset: Front +35 mm, Rear +45 mm
Tire Specifications
  • Front tire size: 195/50 R20
  • Rear tire size: 215/45 R20
  • Tire type: Low rolling resistance performance tires
  • Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) integrated

Note: Tire pressure recommendations are displayed on the iDrive system.

Component Specifications

Front Suspension

Type
Double wishbone
Spring Type
Coil spring with adaptive damping
Shock ABSorber Type
Electronically controlled dampers
Stabilizer Bar Diameter
25.5 mm
Wheel Alignment
Camber: -0.5 to -1.0 degrees
Toe: 0.10 to 0.20 degrees
Caster: 6.5 to 7.5 degrees
Part Numbers
Strut Assembly: 31306865432
Control Arm: 31126865433
Stabilizer Link: 31356865434

Rear Suspension

Type
Five-link independent suspension
Spring Type
Coil spring with adaptive damping
Shock ABSorber Type
Electronically controlled dampers
Stabilizer Bar Diameter
22.5 mm
Wheel Alignment
Camber: -1.5 to -2.0 degrees
Toe: 0.15 to 0.25 degrees
Part Numbers
Trailing Arm: 33326865435
Control Arm: 33336865436
Stabilizer Link: 33356865437

Adaptive Suspension

System Name
Dynamic Damper Control (DDC)
Operating Modes
  • Comfort
  • Sport
  • Eco Pro
Response Time
20 ms
Maximum Damping Force
5000 N
Part Numbers
Control Unit: 37106865438
Sensor Kit: 37116865439

Wheel Specifications

Front Wheel Track
1640 mm
Rear Wheel Track
1650 mm
Wheelbase
2800 mm
Rim Size
20 inches
Tire Size
Front: 195/50 R20
Rear: 215/45 R20

Suspension Bushings

Material
Synthetic rubber with aluminum reinforcement
Front Bushing Durometer
70 Shore A
Rear Bushing Durometer
75 Shore A
Part Numbers
Front Bushing: 31106865440
Rear Bushing: 33306865441

Suspension Mounts

Front Strut Mount Type
Hydraulic
Rear Shock Mount Type
Rubber with steel insert
Part Numbers
Front Strut Mount: 31306865442
Rear Shock Mount: 33506865443

Suspension Limits

Maximum Load
Front: 850 kg
Rear: 900 kg
Maximum Speed
250 km/h (electronically limited)
Maximum Compression
120 mm
Maximum Rebound
100 mm

Diagnostic Specifications

Fault Codes
  • C1210 - Adaptive suspension sensor fault
  • C1211 - DDC control unit communication error
  • C1212 - Damper valve malfunction
Diagnostic Tool
BMW ISTA
Test Procedures
  • Check sensor voltage (5V ± 0.2V)
  • Inspect damper response time (20 ms ± 2 ms)
  • Verify control unit communication

Maintenance Specifications

inspection Interval
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Torque Specifications
Strut Mount Nuts: 50 Nm ± 5 Nm
Control Arm Bolts: 90 Nm ± 10 Nm
Stabilizer Link Nuts: 40 Nm ± 5 Nm
Lubrication Points
  • Control arm bushings
  • Stabilizer bar bushings
Replacement intervals
Shock ABSorbers: Every 60,000 miles
Bushings: Every 100,000 miles

Safety information

Warning
Do not exceed maximum load limits
Notes
  • Ensure proper alignment after suspension work
  • Use only BMW-approved replacement parts
  • Inspect suspension components for wear during routine maintenance

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the BMW i8 suspension system

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Inspect suspension components for wear
  • Check wheel alignment
  • Verify adaptive suspension functionality

Replace worn components as necessary

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Replace shock absorbers
  • Inspect and lubricate bushings
  • Check torque on all suspension fasteners

Use BMW-approved lubricants and parts

100,000 miles
84 months
  • Replace all suspension bushings
  • Inspect and replace strut mounts if necessary
  • Perform full suspension diagnostic

Ensure proper alignment after replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of suspension system does the 2014-2020 BMW i8 use?

The BMW i8 features a double-wishbone front suspension and a five-link rear suspension. This setup is designed to provide optimal handling, stability, and comfort, with adaptive dampers available as part of the Dynamic Damper Control system.

Q2

What is the ground clearance of the BMW i8?

The BMW i8 has a ground clearance of approximately 117 mm (4.6 inches). This is optimized for aerodynamic efficiency while maintaining sufficient clearance for most driving conditions.

Q3

Can the suspension be adjusted for different driving modes?

Yes, the BMW i8's suspension can be adjusted via the Driving Experience Control switch. In Sport mode, the suspension becomes firmer for improved handling, while Comfort mode offers a smoother ride by softening the dampers.

Q4

What is the recommended tire pressure for the BMW i8?

The recommended tire pressure for the BMW i8 is 2.2 bar (32 psi) for the front tires and 2.7 bar (39 psi) for the rear tires under normal driving conditions. Always refer to the tire pressure label on the driver's side door jamb for specific recommendations.

Q5

How often should the suspension components be inspected?

BMW recommends inspecting the suspension components every 10,000 miles or during routine maintenance. Pay special attention to the condition of the dampers, bushings, and ball joints to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Q6

What is the wheel alignment specification for the BMW i8?

The front wheel alignment for the BMW i8 should have a camber of -0.5° to -1.0°, a caster of 7.0° to 8.0°, and a toe-in of 0.10° to 0.20°. The rear wheel alignment should have a camber of -1.5° to -2.0° and a toe-in of 0.10° to 0.20°.

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 Suspension System Overview

Coming Soon

A detailed guide to the BMW i8's suspension system, including its design, components, and functionality.

Dynamic Damper Control Explained

Coming Soon

Learn how the adaptive suspension system in the BMW i8 adjusts to different driving conditions for enhanced performance and comfort.

BMW i8 Wheel Alignment Specifications

Coming Soon

Official wheel alignment specifications and procedures for the BMW i8 to ensure proper handling and tire wear.

Suspension Maintenance Checklist

Coming Soon

A comprehensive checklist for inspecting and maintaining the suspension system of the BMW i8.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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