BMW M3 2015-2020 Brakes Specifications
BMW M3 2015-2020

BMW M3 2015-2020 Brakes Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2015-2020 BMW M3 braking system. Learn about brake components, performance metrics, and maintenance procedures for this high-performance vehicle.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the brakes specifications for the 2015-2020 BMW M3, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific brakes specifications by entering keywords such as 'brake disc diameter', 'pad material', or 'caliper type'.

Navigate through the brakes documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each section is clearly labeled for easy access.

Key Specifications

Front Brake Disc Diameter

380 mm

Rear Brake Disc Diameter

370 mm

Brake Fluid Type

DOT 4 LV

100-0 km/h Braking Distance

32 meters

Brake Pad Thickness (Front)

12 mm

Available Specifications

Brake System Overview

Detailed description of the brake system components and their functions

Front Brake System
  • 4-piston fixed calipers with aluminum housing
  • Front brake disc diameter: 380 mm
  • Front brake disc thickness: 30 mm
  • Brake pad material: High-performance ceramic composite
  • Brake pad thickness: 12 mm
Rear Brake System
  • 2-piston floating calipers with aluminum housing
  • Rear brake disc diameter: 370 mm
  • Rear brake disc thickness: 24 mm
  • Brake pad material: High-performance ceramic composite
  • Brake pad thickness: 10 mm

Note: The rear brake system is designed to complement the front brakes for balanced braking performance.

Brake Fluid and Hydraulics

Technical details about the brake fluid and hydraulic system

Brake Fluid Specifications
  • Brake fluid type: DOT 4 LV
  • Minimum boiling point: 230°C (446°F)
  • Recommended change interval: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
  • Fluid capacity: 1.0 liter
Hydraulic System
  • Hydraulic system pressure: 120 bar
  • Master cylinder diameter: 25.4 mm
  • ABS system: Integrated with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
  • Brake line material: Stainless steel braided lines

Brake Performance and Maintenance

Information on brake performance metrics and maintenance requirements

Performance Metrics
  • 100-0 km/h braking distance: 32 meters
  • Maximum deceleration: 1.2 g
  • Brake fade resistance: Up to 600°C
  • Pedal travel: 80 mm
Maintenance Requirements
  • Brake pad replacement interval: 30,000-50,000 miles
  • Brake disc replacement interval: 60,000-80,000 miles
  • Inspection interval: Every 10,000 miles
  • Brake fluid flush interval: Every 2 years

Note: Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial for optimal brake performance and safety.

Brakes Specifications

Brake System Type

System
Hydraulic dual-circuit brake system with vacuum booster
Front Brakes
Ventilated disc brakes
Rear Brakes
Ventilated disc brakes
Parking Brake
Electromechanical parking brake

Brake Discs

Front Disc Diameter
380 mm
Front Disc Thickness
30 mm
Rear Disc Diameter
370 mm
Rear Disc Thickness
24 mm
Material
Cast iron with aluminum hat
Part Number Front
34112284801
Part Number Rear
34212284802

Brake Pads

Front Pad Material
Low-metallic compound
Rear Pad Material
Low-metallic compound
Front Pad Thickness New
12 mm
Rear Pad Thickness New
10 mm
Minimum Threshold
3 mm
Part Number Front
34116875061
Part Number Rear
34216875062

Brake Calipers

Front Caliper Type
Fixed 4-piston aluminum calipers
Rear Caliper Type
Floating 2-piston aluminum calipers
Front Caliper Color
Blue
Rear Caliper Color
Blue
Part Number Front
34112284803
Part Number Rear
34212284804

Brake Fluid

Type
DOT 4 LV
Capacity
1.0 liter
Boiling Point Dry
270°C
Boiling Point Wet
180°C
Replacement interval
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles

Brake Hoses

Material
Reinforced rubber with stainless steel braiding
Front Hose Length
450 mm
Rear Hose Length
500 mm
Part Number Front
34312284805
Part Number Rear
34412284806

Brake Booster

Type
Vacuum brake booster
Diameter
9 inches
Part Number
34312284807

Parking Brake System

Type
Electromechanical
Actuation
Button on center console
Cable Type
Stainless steel
Part Number
34412284808

Brake System Tolerances

Brake Disc Runout Max
0.05 mm
Brake Pad Wear Limit
3 mm
Brake Fluid Level Min
10 mm below max mark
Parking Brake Cable Tension
5-7 Nm

Diagnostic Specifications

Brake Wear Sensor
Type: Integrated into brake pads
Part Number Front: 34356789012
Part Number Rear: 34456789013
Fault Codes
  • DSC 5E20 - Brake pressure sensor fault
  • DSC 5E21 - Brake fluid level sensor fault
  • DSC 5E22 - Parking brake actuator fault

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the brake system

10,000 miles
12 months
  • Inspect brake pads and discs for wear
  • Check brake fluid level and condition
  • Inspect brake hoses for leaks or damage

Replace brake fluid every 2 years regardless of mileage

30,000 miles
36 months
  • Replace brake fluid
  • Inspect parking brake system
  • Check brake caliper operation

Ensure brake system is bled properly after fluid replacement

60,000 miles
72 months
  • Replace brake pads and discs if necessary
  • Inspect brake booster and vacuum system
  • Check brake system for leaks

Use only BMW-approved brake components for replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of brake system does the 2015-2020 BMW M3 use?

The 2015-2020 BMW M3 is equipped with a high-performance compound brake system. The front brakes feature 380mm ventilated and perforated discs with 4-piston fixed calipers, while the rear brakes use 370mm ventilated and perforated discs with 2-piston fixed calipers. The system includes ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), and an electronic parking brake.

Q2

What is the recommended brake pad replacement interval for the BMW M3?

The brake pad replacement interval for the BMW M3 varies based on driving conditions and style. Under normal driving conditions, brake pads typically last between 30,000 to 50,000 miles. However, aggressive driving or track use may significantly reduce this interval. Always monitor the brake pad wear sensor and consult the vehicle's onboard service system for accurate replacement timing.

Q3

Can I use aftermarket brake pads on my BMW M3?

While aftermarket brake pads can be used, it is highly recommended to use genuine BMW or BMW-approved brake pads to ensure optimal performance, safety, and compatibility. Aftermarket pads may not meet the same performance standards and could affect braking efficiency, noise levels, and wear characteristics. Using non-genuine parts may also void the vehicle's warranty.

Q4

How do I properly bed in new brake pads and rotors on my BMW M3?

To bed in new brake pads and rotors, follow these steps: 1. Perform 6-10 moderate stops from 35 mph to 10 mph, allowing the brakes to cool between stops. 2. Perform 3-5 hard stops from 50 mph to 15 mph, again allowing cooling between stops. 3. Avoid coming to a complete stop during the bedding process. 4. Drive for 5-10 minutes at moderate speed to allow the brakes to cool completely. Proper bedding ensures optimal brake performance and longevity.

Q5

What is the brake fluid specification for the BMW M3?

The BMW M3 requires DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity) brake fluid, such as BMW Part No. 81 22 2 372 990. The brake fluid should be replaced every 2 years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. Always use fresh, unopened brake fluid to maintain the system's performance and safety.

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 M3 Brake System Technical Manual

Coming Soon

Official technical manual detailing the brake system components, specifications, and maintenance procedures for the 2015-2020 BMW M3.

Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing brake pads and rotors on the BMW M3, including torque specifications and safety precautions.

Brake Fluid Flush and Bleeding Procedure

Coming Soon

Detailed instructions for performing a brake fluid flush and bleeding procedure on the BMW M3, ensuring proper system performance.

Track Day Brake Maintenance Tips

Coming Soon

Expert advice on maintaining and optimizing your BMW M3's brakes for track day use, including pad selection and cooling techniques.

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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