BMW M5 2011-2017

BMW M5 2011-2017 Brakes Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the 2011-2017 BMW M5 braking system, including brake components, performance data, and maintenance guidelines. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 14, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the brakes specifications for the 2011-2017 BMW M5, including key features, measurements, and technical details. This section covers the high-performance braking system designed for optimal stopping power and durability.

How to Use

Use the search bar to find specific brakes specifications by entering keywords such as 'rotor diameter', 'brake pad material', or 'caliper type'.

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

Key Specifications

Front Rotor Diameter

400 mm (15.75 in)

Rear Rotor Diameter

396 mm (15.59 in)

Front Caliper Type

6-piston fixed aluminum

Rear Caliper Type

4-piston fixed aluminum

Brake Fluid Type

DOT 4 LV

Available Specifications

Front Brakes

Detailed information about the front braking system, including rotor size, caliper type, and pad specifications.

Front Brake Rotors

Diameter: 400 mm (15.75 in)
Thickness: 36 mm (1.42 in)
Material: High-carbon cast iron with anti-corrosion coating
Ventilation: Cross-drilled and vented for improved cooling
Weight: 12.5 kg (27.56 lbs) per rotor

Front Brake Calipers

Type: 6-piston fixed aluminum calipers
Color: Blue (M Performance branding)
Piston Diameter: 40 mm, 44 mm, 48 mm (stepped design)
Mounting: Radial mounting for improved stiffness
Note: Calipers are designed for high thermal resistance and reduced brake fade

Note: The front calipers are compatible with BMW M Performance brake pads for enhanced performance.

Rear Brakes

Technical details of the rear braking system, including rotor dimensions, caliper specifications, and pad materials.

Rear Brake Rotors

Diameter: 396 mm (15.59 in)
Thickness: 24 mm (0.94 in)
Material: High-carbon cast iron with anti-corrosion coating
Ventilation: Cross-drilled and vented for improved cooling
Weight: 10.2 kg (22.49 lbs) per rotor

Rear Brake Calipers

Type: 4-piston fixed aluminum calipers
Color: Blue (M Performance branding)
Piston Diameter: 30 mm, 34 mm (stepped design)
Mounting: Radial mounting for improved stiffness
Note: Calipers are designed for high thermal resistance and reduced brake fade

Note: The rear calipers are compatible with BMW M Performance brake pads for enhanced performance.

Brake Pads

Information about the brake pad materials, dimensions, and performance characteristics.

Front Brake Pads

Material: Low-metallic compound with ceramic additives
Dimensions: 150 mm x 70 mm x 18 mm (5.91 in x 2.76 in x 0.71 in)
Friction Coefficient: 0.42 (high-performance range)
Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to 800°C (-40°F to 1472°F)
Note: Designed for reduced dust and noise

Rear Brake Pads

Material: Low-metallic compound with ceramic additives
Dimensions: 130 mm x 60 mm x 16 mm (5.12 in x 2.36 in x 0.63 in)
Friction Coefficient: 0.40 (high-performance range)
Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to 750°C (-40°F to 1382°F)
Note: Designed for reduced dust and noise

Brake Fluid and Hydraulics

Details about the brake fluid specifications and hydraulic system components.

Brake Fluid

Type: DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity)
Boiling Point: 265°C (509°F) dry, 175°C (347°F) wet
Volume: 1.0 liter (0.26 gallons) required for full system flush
Note: Compatible with high-performance braking systems

Hydraulic System

Master Cylinder Diameter: 25.4 mm (1 in)
Brake Line Material: Stainless steel braided lines (optional upgrade)
ABS System: Integrated with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Note: Hydraulic system is designed for precise pedal feel and responsiveness

Search Specifications

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Brakes Specifications

Brake System Type

Type: Hydraulic dual-circuit brake system with ABS, DSC, and brake assist

Front Brakes: Ventilated disc brakes with 6-piston fixed calipers

Rear Brakes: Ventilated disc brakes with single-piston floating calipers

Brake Discs

Front Disc Diameter: 400 mm

Front Disc Thickness: 36 mm

Rear Disc Diameter: 396 mm

Rear Disc Thickness: 24 mm

Material: Cast iron with anti-corrosion coating

Part Numbers: Front Disc: 34112284801
Rear Disc: 34212284802

Brake Pads

Front Pad Material: Ceramic composite

Rear Pad Material: Ceramic composite

Front Pad Thickness New: 14 mm

Rear Pad Thickness New: 12 mm

Minimum Thickness: Front: 3 mm
Rear: 3 mm

Part Numbers: Front Pads: 34112284803
Rear Pads: 34212284804

Brake Fluid

Type: DOT 4 LV

Capacity: 1.0 liter

Boiling Point: Dry: 266°C
Wet: 180°C

Replacement interval: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles

Brake Calipers

Front Caliper Type: 6-piston fixed

Rear Caliper Type: Single-piston floating

Piston Diameter: Front: 40 mm
Rear: 42 mm

Part Numbers: Front Caliper: 34112284805
Rear Caliper: 34212284806

Brake Lines

Material: Stainless steel braided lines

Length: Front: 600 mm
Rear: 800 mm

Pressure Rating: 3000 psi

Brake Booster

Type: Vacuum-assisted hydraulic booster

Booster Diameter: 10 inches

Part Number: 34312284807

ABS System

Type: Bosch 9.1 ABS with DSC

Sensor Type: Active wheel speed sensors

Control Unit Part Number: 34512284808

Parking Brake

Type: Electromechanical parking brake

Cable Length: 1200 mm

Actuator Part Number: 34612284809

Operational Limits

Maximum Brake Temperature: 600°C

Maximum Brake Pressure: 200 bar

Minimum Brake Pad Thickness: 3 mm

Minimum Brake Disc Thickness: Front: 34 mm
Rear: 22 mm

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 lines for leaks or damage

Replace brake fluid every 2 years or 30,000 miles

30,000 miles

36 months

Replace brake fluid
Inspect and clean brake calipers
Check parking brake operation

Replace brake pads if thickness is below 3 mm

60,000 miles

72 months

Replace brake pads and discs if necessary
Inspect ABS sensors and wiring
Check brake booster operation

Replace brake discs if thickness is below minimum specification

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What is the brake rotor size for the 2011-2017 BMW M5?

The 2011-2017 BMW M5 is equipped with ventilated and perforated brake rotors. The front rotors measure 400mm in diameter and 36mm in thickness, while the rear rotors measure 396mm in diameter and 24mm in thickness. These dimensions are specific to the high-performance braking system designed for the M5.

What type of brake pads are recommended for the BMW M5?

The BMW M5 uses high-performance brake pads designed for extreme heat resistance and durability. Genuine BMW M Sport brake pads or equivalent high-performance aftermarket pads are recommended. These pads are specifically formulated to handle the high thermal loads generated during aggressive driving.

How often should the brake fluid be replaced on a BMW M5?

BMW recommends replacing the brake fluid every 2 years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. The M5 uses DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity) brake fluid, which is essential for maintaining optimal braking performance and preventing corrosion within the brake system.

What is the recommended procedure for bedding in new brake pads and rotors?

To properly bed in new brake pads and rotors, perform a series of controlled stops from 60 mph to 10 mph, repeating 8-10 times without coming to a complete stop. Allow the brakes to cool for 15-20 minutes. This process ensures proper transfer layer formation on the rotors, optimizing braking performance and longevity.

Can I upgrade the braking system on my BMW M5?

Yes, the BMW M5 can be upgraded with aftermarket or BMW Performance braking systems. Popular upgrades include larger carbon-ceramic rotors, which reduce unsprung weight and improve heat dissipation. However, ensure the upgraded components are compatible with the M5's braking system and ABS calibration.

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 M5 Brake System Technical Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide covering the specifications, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the BMW M5 braking system.

Brake Fluid Replacement Procedure

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing brake fluid on the BMW M5, including safety precautions and required tools.

Brake Pad and Rotor Bedding Instructions

Coming Soon

A comprehensive guide to properly bedding in new brake pads and rotors for optimal performance.

BMW M5 Carbon-Ceramic Brake Upgrade Guide

Coming Soon

Information on upgrading to carbon-ceramic brakes, including benefits, installation, and compatibility.

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