BMW Z8 2000-2003 Brakes Specifications
BMW Z8 2000-2003

BMW Z8 2000-2003 Brakes Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the 2000-2003 BMW Z8 braking system, including OEM parts, performance metrics, and maintenance guidelines. Essential for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the brakes specifications for the 2000-2003 BMW Z8, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific brake specifications by entering keywords such as 'brake disc diameter' or 'brake pad thickness'.

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

324 mm

Rear Brake Disc Diameter

300 mm

Brake Fluid Type

DOT 4

Front Brake Pad Thickness (New)

12 mm

Rear Brake Pad Thickness (New)

10 mm

Available Specifications

Brake System Overview

Detailed description of the brake system components and their functions

Front Brake System
  • Ventilated disc brakes with a diameter of 324 mm
  • 4-piston fixed calipers for enhanced braking performance
  • Brake pad thickness: 12 mm (new), 3 mm (minimum)
  • Brake disc thickness: 28 mm (new), 26 mm (minimum)
  • Hydraulic system with ABS and DSC integration
Rear Brake System
  • Ventilated disc brakes with a diameter of 300 mm
  • 2-piston floating calipers
  • Brake pad thickness: 10 mm (new), 2 mm (minimum)
  • Brake disc thickness: 20 mm (new), 18 mm (minimum)
  • Integrated parking brake system

Note: Ensure proper alignment of the parking brake shoes during maintenance.

Brake Fluid Specifications

Technical details about the brake fluid requirements and maintenance

Brake Fluid Type
  • DOT 4 brake fluid recommended
  • Minimum wet boiling point: 155°C (311°F)
  • Minimum dry boiling point: 230°C (446°F)
  • Fluid capacity: 1.0 liter (system total)
  • Replace fluid every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Bleeding Procedure
  • Use a pressure bleeder for optimal results
  • Bleed sequence: Right rear, left rear, right front, left front
  • Ensure no air bubbles remain in the system
  • Check fluid level after bleeding

Note: Always use fresh brake fluid to avoid contamination.

Brake Pad and Disc Maintenance

Guidelines for inspecting and replacing brake pads and discs

Brake Pad Replacement
  • Inspect pads every 10,000 miles
  • Replace pads if thickness is below 3 mm (front) or 2 mm (rear)
  • Use OEM or equivalent high-performance pads
  • Ensure proper bedding-in procedure after replacement
Brake Disc Inspection
  • Check for cracks, grooves, or warping
  • Minimum thickness: 26 mm (front), 18 mm (rear)
  • Replace discs if below minimum thickness or damaged
  • Ensure proper torque when reinstalling discs

Note: Always replace brake pads and discs in pairs (left and right).

ABS and DSC System

Technical details about the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

ABS Functionality
  • 4-channel ABS system for individual wheel control
  • Operational speed range: 5 km/h to 250 km/h
  • Integrated wheel speed sensors
  • Self-diagnostic system for fault detection
DSC Integration
  • DSC enhances stability during braking and cornering
  • Includes traction control and brake assist features
  • Operational speed range: 0 km/h to 250 km/h
  • Can be temporarily disabled via dashboard button

Note: DSC should remain enabled for normal driving conditions.

Brakes Specifications

Brake System Type

System
Hydraulic dual-circuit brake system with ABS and DSC
Front Brakes
Ventilated disc brakes
Rear Brakes
Ventilated disc brakes
Parking Brake
Mechanical, rear wheel actuation

Brake Discs

Front Disc Diameter
325 mm
Front Disc Thickness
28 mm
Front Disc Material
Cast iron
Rear Disc Diameter
328 mm
Rear Disc Thickness
20 mm
Rear Disc Material
Cast iron
Minimum Thickness Front
26 mm
Minimum Thickness Rear
18 mm
Part Number Front
34112282451
Part Number Rear
34212282452

Brake Pads

Front Pad Material
Semi-metallic
Rear Pad Material
Semi-metallic
Front Pad Thickness New
12 mm
Rear Pad Thickness New
10 mm
Minimum Thickness Front
3 mm
Minimum Thickness Rear
2 mm
Part Number Front
34112282453
Part Number Rear
34212282454

Brake Calipers

Front Caliper Type
Fixed 4-piston
Rear Caliper Type
Floating single-piston
Front Caliper Part Number
34112282455
Rear Caliper Part Number
34212282456

Brake Fluid

Type
DOT 4
Capacity
1.0 liter
Replacement interval
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Boiling Point Dry
230°C
Boiling Point Wet
155°C

Brake Lines

Material
Stainless steel braided
Front Line Length
1200 mm
Rear Line Length
1100 mm
Part Number Front
34112282457
Part Number Rear
34212282458

ABS System

Type
Bosch 5.7 ABS with DSC
Sensor Type
Active wheel speed sensors
Control Unit Part Number
34512282459
Operating Pressure
180 bar

Parking Brake

Type
Mechanical, cable-operated
Cable Length
1500 mm
Adjustment interval
Every 15,000 miles
Part Number Cable
34412282460

Brake Booster

Type
Vacuum-assisted
Booster Diameter
230 mm
Part Number
34312282461
Operating Pressure
8 bar

Brake Pedal

Pedal Ratio
4.2:1
Pedal Travel
120 mm
Part Number
34612282462

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the brake system

15,000
12
  • 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 regardless of mileage

30,000
24
  • Replace brake fluid
  • Inspect ABS and DSC system functionality
  • Check parking brake adjustment

Perform a full brake system inspection

60,000
48
  • Replace brake pads and discs if necessary
  • Inspect and replace brake lines if damaged
  • Check brake booster and master cylinder for leaks

Ensure all components meet manufacturer specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of brake system does the 2000-2003 BMW Z8 use?

The 2000-2003 BMW Z8 is equipped with a dual-circuit hydraulic brake system with vacuum-assisted power brakes. It features ventilated disc brakes on both the front and rear axles, with the front brakes measuring 13.7 inches (348 mm) in diameter and the rear brakes measuring 12.9 inches (328 mm) in diameter.

Q2

What is the recommended brake pad material for the BMW Z8?

The BMW Z8 is designed to use low-metallic or ceramic brake pads. Genuine BMW brake pads are recommended for optimal performance and compatibility. Low-metallic pads provide excellent stopping power and heat dissipation, while ceramic pads offer quieter operation and reduced brake dust.

Q3

How often should the brake fluid be replaced on a BMW Z8?

BMW recommends replacing the brake fluid every 2 years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. The brake fluid must meet DOT 4 specifications, and the system should be bled to remove air and ensure proper hydraulic pressure.

Q4

What is the procedure for checking brake rotor thickness on the BMW Z8?

To check brake rotor thickness, remove the wheel and measure the rotor using a micrometer. The minimum allowable thickness for the front rotors is 32.4 mm, and for the rear rotors, it is 20.4 mm. Rotors should be replaced if they are below these specifications or show signs of excessive wear, scoring, or warping.

Q5

Can I upgrade the brake system on my BMW Z8?

Yes, the BMW Z8 can be upgraded with high-performance brake systems, such as larger rotors, multi-piston calipers, or carbon-ceramic brakes. However, any modifications should be performed by a certified technician to ensure compatibility and safety. Upgrading the brakes may also void the vehicle's warranty if not done using BMW-approved parts.

Q6

What are the symptoms of a failing brake master cylinder on the BMW Z8?

Symptoms of a failing brake master cylinder include a spongy brake pedal, reduced braking performance, fluid leaks near the brake booster, or the brake warning light illuminating. If any of these symptoms occur, the master cylinder should be inspected and replaced immediately to avoid brake failure.

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 Z8 Brake System Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official BMW service manual detailing brake system maintenance, repair procedures, and specifications for the 2000-2003 Z8.

Brake Fluid Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing brake fluid in the BMW Z8, including bleeding procedures and recommended fluid types.

Performance Brake Upgrade Options

Coming Soon

Overview of high-performance brake upgrades available for the BMW Z8, including compatibility and installation tips.

Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement Tutorial

Coming Soon

Detailed tutorial on replacing brake pads and rotors on the BMW Z8, including torque specifications and safety precautions.

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.

15+ Years
Experience
500+ Guides
Guides
50+ Makes
Vehicles
1000+ Solutions
Solutions

Diagnostic

Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.

Repair

Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.

Additional Expertise

Documentation

Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.

Training

Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.

Certifications & Research

Certifications

  • ASE Master Technician Certification
  • Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
  • Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
  • Performance Tuning Expert

Research & Community

Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.

Legal Disclaimer

Important information about using this content

Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.

General Information
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to maintain accuracy in our content, all specifications, procedures, and technical information should be verified against your vehicle's official service manual or with the manufacturer directly.
Warranty & Liability

The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.

Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
  • Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
  • Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
  • If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.
Intellectual Property
All content, including text, images, and specifications, is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. Any unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.

© 2025 BMW Specs. All rights reserved.