When to replace the Brake Pads on your BMW 8 SERIES
Recommended replacement interval for the part category Brake pad set : 30000 km
Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW 8 (E31) 850 i, Ci, BMW 8 (E31) 850 Ci, BMW 8 (E31) 850 CSi, BMW 8 (E31) 840 Ci 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

Tools
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 8 (E31). AUTODOC experts recommend:
Wire brush
Nylon cleaning brush
Brake cleaner
Copper grease
Anti-squeal paste
Torque wrench
HEX bit No.H7
Wheel impact socket #17
Brake caliper wind back tool
Ratchet wrench
Round-nose pliers
Crow bar
Wheel chock
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 8 (E31). Professionals recommend:
  • Perform the replacement of brake pads in complete set for each axis. This provides effective braking.
  • The replacement procedure is identical for all brake pads on the same axle.
  • All work should be done with the engine stopped.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 8 (E31). Recommended sequence of steps:
  1. Step 1
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW E31 1990 - free PDF and video manuals
    Open the bonnet. Unscrew the brake fluid reservoir cap.
  2. Step 2
    Secure the wheels with chocks.
    Step 3
    How to replace BMW 8 (E31) 850 i, Ci 1991 Brake Pads - step-by-step manuals and video guides
    Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
  3. Step 4
    BMW E31 840 i 1992 Brake Pads replacement: free workshop manuals
    Raise the rear of the car and secure on supports.
  4. Step 5
    Changing Brake Pads on BMW 8 (E31) 850Ci 5.4 1993 by yourself
    Unscrew the wheel bolts.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Warning! To avoid injury, hold the wheel while unscrewing the fastening bolts. BMW 8 (E31)
  5. Step 6
    How to remove BMW 8 SERIES 850 CSi 1994 Brake Pads - online easy-to-follow instructions
    Remove the wheel.
  6. Step 7
    How to replace Brake Pads on BMW 8 (E31) 1995: download PDF manuals and video instructions
    Remove the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins. Use a crowbar.
  7. Step 8
    How hard is it to do yourself: Brake Pads replacement on BMW E31 840 i 1996 - download illustrated guide
    Unscrew the brake caliper fastening. Use HEX No.H7. Use a ratchet wrench.
  8. Step 9
    Need to know how to renew Brake Pads on BMW 8 SERIES 1997? This free workshop manual will help you to do it yourself
    Disconnect the brake pads wear sensor. Use round-nose pliers.
  9. Step 10
    Changing of Brake Pads on BMW E31 1998 won't be an issue if you follow this illustrated step-by-step guide
    Detach the brake caliper retaining spring. Use a crowbar.
  10. Step 11
    BMW 8 SERIES 850Ci 5.4 Brake Pads replacement: online guides and video tutorials
    Spread the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
  11. Step 12
    Replacing Brake Pads on BMW E31 1990 850 i, Ci by yourself
    Remove the brake caliper.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 8 (E31). Tip from AUTODOC experts:
    Tie the caliper to the suspension or to the body with a wire without disconnecting from the brake hose to prevent depressurization of the brake system.Make sure that the brake caliper is not hanging on the brake hose.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. Check the brake caliper bracket, brake caliper guide pins and boots. Clean them. Replace, if necessary.
  12. Step 13
    8 (E31) 850 CSi 1991 Brake Pads DIY replacement workshop manual
    Remove the brake pads.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 8 (E31). AUTODOC recommends:
    Measure the brake disc thickness. Upon reaching the wear limit the part must be replaced.
  13. Step 14
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW 8 (E31) 1992 - tips and tricks
    Clean the brake caliper bracket from dirt and dust. Use a wire brush. Use a brake cleaner.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 8 (E31). After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  14. Step 15
    Step-by-step recommendations for DIY replacement BMW E31 1993 850 CSi Brake Pads
    Treat the brake caliper piston. Use a nylon cleaning brush. Use a brake cleaner.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  15. Step 16
    DIY replacement of Brake Pads on BMW 8 (E31) 840 Ci 1994 is not an issue anymore with our step-by-step tutorial
    Press in the brake caliper piston. Use brake caliper wind back tool.
  16. Step 17
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW E31 1990 - free PDF and video manuals
    Treat the brake pads in the area where their surface comes into contact with the brake caliper bracket. Use anti-squeal paste.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 8 (E31). AUTODOC recommends:
    Make sure the disc surface is clean before installing the pads.
  17. Step 18
    How to replace BMW 8 (E31) 850 i, Ci 1991 Brake Pads - step-by-step manuals and video guides
    Install new brake pads.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 8 (E31). Tip from AUTODOC experts:
    Make sure the pads are installed with linings facing the disc.
Was this manual helpful?
Please rate this manual on a scale from 1 to 5. If you have any questions, feel free to ask us.
Users voted – 0
Your profile is your personal assistant.

It can track car expenses, keep a car log and replacement schedule, and save favourite materials, notes and documents

Install the AUTODOC CLUB app!
Your personal car expenses manager, maintenance tips, reminders about upcoming appointments and service intervals, DIY repair instructions – all this on your phone.
BMW 8 (E31) Brake Pads replace by yourself - Scan QR-code and download AUTODOC CLUB app
Scan

To download the app:

  • - scan the QR code
  • - download from App Store
  • - download from Google Play
DIY BMW 8 (E31) Brake Pads replacement - online guide
Tips & tricks for your BMW 8 (E31)
View more
  • How to change Brake pad set on BMW 8 (E31) 840 Ci - replacement tricks
    How and why to check your oil | AUTODOC tips
  • Changing Disc pads BMW E31 850 i, Ci - Replacement Tips
    How to fix your car with AUTODOC CLUB
  • Maintenance Hacks - BMW 8 (E31) 840 i Brake pad kit replacement guide
    DIY jack restoration | AUTODOC tips
  • Replace Disc brake pads on BMW E31 - free video tips
    What to do if the belt squeals | AUTODOC tips