When to replace the Brake Pads on your BMW Z3
Recommended replacement interval for the part category Brake pad set : 30000 km
Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) 2.8 i, BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) M, BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) 3.0 i, BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) M, BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) M 3.2 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 Z3 Coupe (E36). Tools you'll need:
Wire brush
WD-40 spray
Brake cleaner
Copper grease
Anti-squeal paste
HEX bit No.H7.
Wheel impact socket #17
Ratchet wrench
Torque wrench
Brake caliper wind back tool
Crow bar
Wheel chock
Replacement: brake pads – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). AUTODOC recommends:
  • 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 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 Pads on BMW Z3 Coupe 1997 - free PDF and video manuals
    Secure the wheels with chocks.
  2. Step 3
    How to replace BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) 2.8 i 1998 Brake Pads - step-by-step manuals and video guides
    Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
  3. Step 4
    Raise the rear of the car and secure on supports.
    Step 5
    BMW Z3 Coupe 3.0 i 1999 Brake Pads replacement: free workshop manuals
    Unscrew the wheel bolts.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Important! Hold the wheel while unscrewing the fastening bolts. BMW Z3 Coupe (E36)
  4. Step 6
    Changing Brake Pads on BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) M 2000 by yourself
    Remove the wheel.
  5. Step 7
    How to remove BMW Z3 2.8 i 2001 Brake Pads - online easy-to-follow instructions
    Spread the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
  6. Step 8
    How to replace Brake Pads on BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) 2002: download PDF manuals and video instructions
    Remove the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins. Use a crowbar.
  7. Step 9
    How hard is it to do yourself: Brake Pads replacement on BMW Z3 Coupe M 3.2 2003 - download illustrated guide
    Unscrew the brake caliper fastening. Use HEX No.H7. Use a ratchet wrench.
  8. Step 10
    Need to know how to renew Brake Pads on BMW Z3 1997? This free workshop manual will help you to do it yourself
    Detach the brake caliper retaining spring. Use a crowbar.
  9. Step 11
    Changing of Brake Pads on BMW Z3 Coupe 1998 won't be an issue if you follow this illustrated step-by-step guide
    Remove the brake caliper.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). Professionals recommend:
    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.
  10. Step 12
    BMW Z3 2.8 i Brake Pads replacement: online guides and video tutorials
    Remove the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
  11. Step 13
    Replacing Brake Pads on BMW Z3 Coupe 2000 2.8 i by yourself
    Disconnect the brake pads wear sensor. Use a crowbar.
    Please note!
    Some cars are not equipped with the brake pad wear sensor.
  12. Step 14
    Z3 Coupe (E36) 2.8 i 2001 Brake Pads DIY replacement workshop manual
    Treat the brake caliper piston. Use a brake cleaner.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW Z3 Coupe (E36). After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  13. Step 15
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) 2002 - tips and tricks
    Press in the brake caliper piston. Use brake caliper wind back tool.
  14. Step 16
    Step-by-step recommendations for DIY replacement BMW Z3 Coupe 2003 2.8 i Brake Pads
    Treat the back side of the new brake pads. Use anti-squeal paste.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Make sure the disc surface is clean before installing the pads.
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DIY BMW Z3 Coupe (E36) Brake Pads replacement - online guide
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