BMW Z4 2009-2016

BMW Z4 2009-2016 Brakes Specifications

Find detailed brake specifications for the 2009-2016 BMW Z4, including rotor sizes, caliper info, and maintenance tips. Perfect for repairs, upgrades, and maintenance.

Updated Feb 10, 2025

Brake System Specifications Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the brake system specifications for the 2009-2016 BMW Z4. It includes detailed information on key components, dimensions, materials, and technologies. Users can navigate through the sections to find specific details or use the quick reference section for key specifications. The document is designed to assist technicians, enthusiasts, and owners in understanding and maintaining the braking system of their vehicle.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the search functionality by typing relevant keywords such as 'rotor size', 'caliper type', or 'ABS specifications'. The search results will highlight relevant sections and subsections.

To navigate, click on the section titles to expand and view detailed subsections. Each section contains technical specifications and key features. Use the quick reference section for a concise overview of important brake specifications.

Key Specifications

▲

Front Rotor Diameter

12.8 in (325 mm)

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Rear Rotor Diameter

11.5 in (292 mm)

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ABS Type

4-channel with EBD

◆

Brake Calipers

4-piston front, 2-piston rear

★

Brake Pads Life

Approx. 30,000 - 50,000 miles

Available Specifications

Brake Overview

This section provides a general overview of the braking system, including key components, technologies, and design features. It serves as a starting point for understanding the specifications and functionality of the brake system.

Brake System Components

Ventilated disc brakes front and rear
Aluminum calipers with piston design
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Regenerative braking (on models with automatic transmission)

Front Brake System

This section details the specifications of the front brake system, including rotor size, caliper type, and other relevant technical details.

Front Brake Specifications

Rotor diameter: 12.8 inches (325 mm)
Rotor thickness: 1.1 inches (28 mm)
Caliper type: 4-piston fixed aluminum
Piston diameter: 1.88 inches (47.8 mm)
Brake pads: High-performance friction material
Cooling system: Air-cooled with internal ventilation

Rear Brake System

This section provides detailed specifications for the rear brake system, including rotor size, caliper type, and other technical details.

Rear Brake Specifications

Rotor diameter: 11.5 inches (292 mm)
Rotor thickness: 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Caliper type: 2-piston floating aluminum
Piston diameter: 1.5 inches (38.1 mm)
Brake pads: High-performance friction material
Parking brake: Mechanical actuation with electronic control

Brake Assist Systems

This section covers the advanced brake assist systems available on the 2009-2016 BMW Z4, including ABS, DSC, and other driver assistance features.

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Four-channel ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution
Wheel speed sensors: Active at all speeds
Pump: Electric with high-pressure reservoir
Control unit: Integrated with DSC module

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Integrated with ABS and traction control
Active stability control with yaw rate sensor
Automatic brake intervention in understeer/oversteer
Driver-adjustable modes: Normal and Sport

Brake Maintenance

This section provides guidelines for maintaining the brake system, including service intervals, inspection procedures, and replacement criteria.

Service Intervals

Brake fluid change: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Brake pads inspection: Every 12,000 miles (19,312 km)
Rotor inspection: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Brake hoses inspection: Every 60,000 miles (96,560 km)
Caliper service: As needed or every 60,000 miles

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Brakes Specifications

Overview

Type: Servotronic

Configuration: Dual-circuit with front-rear split

Platform: E89

Material: Aluminum and steel components

Location: Front and rear axle

Dimensions

Front Rotor Diameter: 13.7 in (348 mm)

Rear Rotor Diameter: 11.8 in (300 mm)

Front Rotor Thickness: 1.0 in (25 mm)

Rear Rotor Thickness: 0.8 in (20 mm)

Front Caliper Piston Diameter: 1.97 in (50 mm)

Rear Caliper Piston Diameter: 1.38 in (35 mm)

Master Cylinder Bore: 0.87 in (22 mm)

Materials

Front Rotor: Vented steel

Rear Rotor: Vented steel

Brake Pads: Organic or ceramic composite

Calipers: Aluminum alloy

Brake Lines: Steel-reinforced rubber

Features

Dynamic Brake Control

Automatic brake drying
Fading compensation
Brake standby
Cornering brake control

Cornering Brake Control

Reduced stopping distance
Improved stability
Enhanced traction

Brake Assist

Emergency braking support
Increased pedal pressure
Shorter stopping distances

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution

Weight transfer compensation
Optimized brake force
Improved stability

Regenerative Braking

Energy recuperation
Reduced wear
Smaller brake usage

Safety Features

Anti-Lock Braking System

Four-channel ABS
Electronic brakeforce distribution
Traction control integration

Emergency Brake Assist

Automatic maximum braking
Reduced stopping distance
Increased safety

Brake Assist System

Enhanced pedal response
Shorter stopping distances
Improved control

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction

Optimized pad material
Vented rotors
Anti-vibration components

Pedal Feel

Linear response
Progressive actuation
Consistent feedback

Heat Management

Vented rotors
Air-cooled calipers
Thermal shielding

Low Dust

Ceramic brake pads
Dust-reducing compounds
Cleaner wheel surfaces

Accessories

High-Performance Pads

Ceramic pads
Racing compound pads
High-friction pads

Upgraded Rotors

Cross-drilled rotors
Slotted rotors
Two-piece rotors

Brake Kits

Sport brake kits
Track brake kits
High-performance brake fluid

Maintenance

Service interval: 12,000 miles / 12 months

Service Items

Brake fluid change
Pad inspection
Rotor inspection
Caliper lubrication
Hoses and lines inspection
ABS sensor cleaning

Maintenance Notes: Use BMW-approved parts and follow factory service procedures.

Warranty

New Vehicle: Miles: 50,000 miles
Years: 4 years
Coverage: Brake components
Terms: From date of purchase

Certified Pre Owned: Miles: Unlimited
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Brake system
Terms: From original in-service date

Parts Warranty: Miles: 24,000 miles
Years: 2 years
Coverage: Brake components
Terms: From installation date

Corrosion Warranty: Miles: 12 years
Years: Unlimited
Coverage: Brake system
Terms: From date of purchase

Production Details

Manufacturer: BMW Group

Manufacturing Process

Precision machining
High-strength alloy casting
Advanced surface coating
Laser cutting
Robot-assisted assembly

Quality Control: inspection: 100% dimensional inspection
Testing: Functional and performance testing
Certification: ISO/TS 16949 compliant

Sustainability Practices: Recycling: 90% recyclable materials
Energy Efficiency: Low-energy manufacturing processes
Emissions Reduction: Compliance with EU6 standards

Production Metrics: Annual Volume: Over 50,000 units
Cycle Time: Less than 8 hours per unit
Defect Rate: Less than 1% defect rate
Supplier Quality: Tier 1 suppliers only

Service Information for brakes Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

12,000 miles

12 months

Inspect brake pads and rotors
Check brake fluid level
Inspect brake lines and hoses
Test ABS and DSC systems
Clean brake sensors
Lubricate caliper slides

Perform visual inspection of all brake components.

24,000 miles

24 months

Replace brake fluid
Inspect brake pads and rotors
Check ABS sensor alignment
Inspect brake calipers
Test parking brake function
Inspect master cylinder

Use BMW-approved brake fluid only.

50,000 miles

48 months

Replace front brake pads
Machining or replace front rotors
Inspect rear brake pads
Inspect rear rotors
Replace brake fluid
Inspect entire brake system

Replace components if excessive wear is detected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What are the technical specifications of the brakes for the 2009-2016 BMW Z4?

The 2009-2016 BMW Z4 features a braking system with ventilated front and rear discs. Front brake rotors measure 12.8 inches (325 mm) in diameter, while rear rotors measure 11.6 inches (295 mm). The system includes four-piston front calipers and two-piston rear calipers. Brake pads are designed for optimal performance and heat dissipation. Ensure compatibility with OEM or aftermarket parts meeting BMW specifications.

What are the maintenance requirements for the brakes?

Regular brake maintenance for the 2009-2016 BMW Z4 includes inspecting brake pads every 5,000 miles and rotors every 10,000 miles. Brake fluid should be replaced every 2 years or as specified in the service manual. Additionally, the parking brake should be checked annually, and all brake components should be inspected for wear or damage during routine servicing.

How do I install or replace brake components?

To replace brake components on the 2009-2016 BMW Z4, start by raising the vehicle and removing the wheels. Inspect the rotors for damage or excessive wear. Remove the caliper and pads, taking care not to damage the brake hose. Install new pads and rotors as needed, ensuring proper alignment and torque specifications. Reinstall the caliper and wheels, then bleed the brake system if necessary. Always follow the BMW service manual for detailed instructions.

How do I troubleshoot common brake issues?

Common brake issues in the 2009-2016 BMW Z4 include spongy brakes, noise, or vibration. Check for air in the brake system by bleeding the lines. Inspect pads and rotors for uneven wear or damage. If noise persists, replace worn or warped rotors. For vibration, ensure proper rotor installation and balancing. Consult the service manual or a BMW specialist for advanced diagnostics.

How can I optimize brake performance?

Optimize brake performance on the 2009-2016 BMW Z4 by using high-performance brake pads and rotors designed for your driving conditions. Regularly flush and replace brake fluid with BMW-approved DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 fluid. Ensure proper alignment of brake components and avoid overheating by maintaining a safe following distance. Consider upgrading to performance brake lines for improved pedal feel and response.

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 Z4 Service Manual (2009-2016)

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide covering maintenance, repairs, and technical specifications for the 2009-2016 BMW Z4, including detailed brake system information.

Technical Bulletin: Brake System Updates

Coming Soon

Official BMW technical bulletin outlining updates and improvements for the brake system on 2009-2016 Z4 models.

BMW Z4 Parts Catalog (2009-2016)

Coming Soon

Detailed catalog of genuine BMW parts for the 2009-2016 Z4, including brake components and accessories.

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