When to replace the Brake Calipers on your BMW Z3
Recommended replacement interval for the part category Brake caliper : 100000 km
Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) 2.8 i, BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) 3.0 i View more

The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.

This video shows the replacement procedure of a similar car part on another vehicle

All the parts you need to replace – Brake Calipers for Z3 Coupe (E36) and other BMW models
Tools
Replacement: brake caliper – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). List of the tools you'll need:
Wire brush
WD-40 spray
Brake cleaner
Copper grease
Combination spanner #9
Flare nut spanner #14
HEX bit No.H7.
Wheel impact socket #17
Ratchet wrench
Torque wrench
Flat Screwdriver
Brake bleeder kit
Crow bar
Wheel chock
Replacement: brake caliper – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). Tip from AUTODOC experts:
  • The replacement procedure is identical for the left and right brake calipers on the same axle.
  • All work should be done with the engine stopped.
Replacement: brake caliper – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). Take the following steps:
  1. Step 1
    Open the bonnet. Unscrew the brake fluid reservoir cap.
    Step 2
    How to change Brake Calipers on BMW Z3 Coupe 1997 - free PDF and video manuals
    Secure the wheels with chocks.
  2. Step 3
    Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
    Step 4
    Raise the front of the car and secure on supports.
    Step 5
    How to replace BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) 2.8 i 1998 Brake Calipers - step-by-step manuals and video guides
    Unscrew the wheel bolts.
    Replacement: brake caliper – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). Tip:
    To avoid injury, hold up the wheel when unscrewing the bolts.
  3. Step 6
    BMW Z3 Coupe 3.0 i 1999 Brake Calipers replacement: free workshop manuals
    Remove the wheel.
  4. Step 7
    Changing Brake Calipers on BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) M 2000 by yourself
    Detach the brake caliper retaining spring. Use a flat screwdriver.
  5. Step 8
    How to remove BMW Z3 2.8 i 2001 Brake Calipers - online easy-to-follow instructions
    Remove the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins. Use a crowbar.
  6. Step 9
    How to replace Brake Calipers on BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) 2002: download PDF manuals and video instructions
    Clean the area where the brake hose is connected to the caliper, and the guide pins area. Use a wire brush. Use a brake cleaner.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Replacement: brake caliper – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  7. Step 10
    How hard is it to do yourself: Brake Calipers replacement on BMW Z3 Coupe M 3.2 2003 - download illustrated guide
    Loosen the brake hose fastening. Use a flare nut spanner #14.
  8. Step 11
    Clean the brake caliper fasteners. Use a wire brush. Use WD-40 spray.
    Step 12
    Need to know how to renew Brake Calipers on BMW Z3 1997? This free workshop manual will help you to do it yourself
    Unscrew the brake caliper fastening. Use HEX No.H7. Use a ratchet wrench.
  9. Step 13
    Changing of Brake Calipers on BMW Z3 Coupe 1998 won't be an issue if you follow this illustrated step-by-step guide
    Spread the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
  10. Step 14
    BMW Z3 2.8 i Brake Calipers replacement: online guides and video tutorials
    Remove the brake caliper.
    Replacement: brake caliper – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). AUTODOC recommends:
    When replacing the brake caliper, it is recommended to check the brake hose for damages and, if necessary, to replace it with a new one. When replacing a brake caliper it is recommended to replace brake pads, check the state of the brake discs and replace them with new ones if necessary.Check the brake caliper bracket, brake caliper guide pins and boots. Clean them. Replace, if necessary.Don't press the brake pedal after the brake caliper has been removed. As a result, the piston can fall out from the brake cylinder, and brake fluid leakage and depressurization of the system may occur.
  11. Step 15
    Replacing Brake Calipers on BMW Z3 Coupe 2000 2.8 i by yourself
    Remove the brake pads.
  12. Step 16
    Z3 Coupe (E36) 2.8 i 2001 Brake Calipers DIY replacement workshop manual
    Unscrew the brake hose from the brake caliper. Use a flare nut spanner #14.
  13. Step 17
    How to change Brake Calipers on BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) 2002 - tips and tricks
    Treat the brake hose. Use a brake cleaner.
    Replacement: brake caliper – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). Tip from AUTODOC:
    After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  14. Step 18
    Step-by-step recommendations for DIY replacement BMW Z3 Coupe 2003 2.8 i Brake Calipers
    Install and fix the brake hose into a new caliper.
  15. Step 19
    DIY replacement of Brake Calipers on BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) M 3.2 1997 is not an issue anymore with our step-by-step tutorial
    Install the brake pads.
    Replacement: brake caliper – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). AUTODOC experts recommend:
    If going to use the old brake pads, clean them.Use a wire brush.
  16. Step 20
    How to change Brake Calipers on BMW Z3 Coupe 1997 - free PDF and video manuals
    Install the brake caliper and fix it. Use HEX No.H7. Use a torque wrench. Tighten it to 30 nm torque.
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DIY BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) Brake Calipers replacement - online guide
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