2014–2021 BMW i3
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| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front brake pad set (BMW i3) | — | — | |
| Front brake rotors (pair, if scored or below spec) | — | — | |
| Brake wear sensor | — | — | |
| Caliper slide-pin grease (silicone-based) | — | — | |
| Brake cleaner | — | — |
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Follow these steps carefully
Park the i3 on level ground, engage the parking brake, and loosen the front wheel lug bolts slightly before lifting. Raise the front onto jack stands at the factory lift points and remove the wheel.
Locate the brake wear sensor wire clipped to the inner pad and unplug it carefully from its connector. Cut or release any zip ties holding the wire to the suspension.
Remove the two caliper guide bolts and lift the caliper off the rotor, supporting it with a hook or bungee from the strut — never let it dangle by the brake hose. Slide the old pads out of the caliper bracket.
Pull the caliper slide pins out of the bracket, wipe off the old dried grease and any corrosion, and inspect the rubber boots for tears. The video shows these pins badly corroded from disuse (regen does most i3 braking) — this step is the heart of the job.
Check the rotor for scoring, lip, or rust damage; if it is below minimum thickness or deeply scored, remove the rotor retaining screw and replace the rotor. Clean the hub face with a wire brush so the new rotor sits perfectly flat.
Push the caliper piston straight back into its bore with a piston tool or C-clamp to make room for the new, thicker pads. Watch the brake fluid reservoir under the hood so it does not overflow as fluid is pushed back.
Apply fresh silicone-based grease to the cleaned slide pins, reinstall them with intact boots, and fit the new pads into the bracket with their anti-rattle hardware. Route and connect the NEW wear sensor — reusing the old one keeps the dash warning lit.
Remount the caliper over the pads, torque the guide bolts evenly, and reinstall the wheel. Lower the car, then pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm before driving anywhere.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
