The BMW M3 (F80) and M4 (F82) are among the most popular platforms for track-day enthusiasts and performance collectors. While many units left the factory with the standard "Blue" M-Sport iron brakes, BMW does offer a comprehensive official OEM carbon ceramic brake (CCB) retrofit kit. This upgrade significantly alters the car's unsprung weight and thermal management, though it requires specific hardware and software considerations.
Contents
- Key Context
- Structured Analysis
- Practical Checklist
- CTA
- FAQ
- Source Notes
- Professional Disclaimer
Key Context
The official BMW M Carbon Ceramic Brake system (Option Code 2NK) was offered as a high-cost factory option for the F8x chassis. For owners looking to upgrade post-purchase, BMW released a dedicated retrofit package. This system is distinguishable by its signature gold-painted calipers and massive 400mm front rotors. Unlike a typical aftermarket Lexus Big Brake Kit or other generic performance brake kits, the BMW OEM retrofit is designed to integrate seamlessly with the car's existing M-specific ABS and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems.
Structured Analysis
1. Official Retrofit Kit Components
The official BMW retrofit kit (Part Number: 34112358378) is a comprehensive package. It includes more than just rotors and pads; it is a full-system overhaul. The kit typically contains:
* Front Calipers: 6-piston fixed calipers in gold.
* Rear Calipers: 4-piston fixed calipers in gold.
* Carbon Ceramic Rotors: 400x38mm front and 380x28mm rear.
* Brake Pads: Specific CCB-compound pads designed for the ceramic disc surface.
* Shielding and Hardware: Modified brake heat shields and necessary mounting bolts.
2. Fitment and Wheel Clearance
Fitment is the most critical hurdle when installing this big brake kit. Because the front rotors are 400mm, standard 18-inch wheels will not clear the calipers. Owners must use at least 19-inch wheels. Even with 19-inch wheels, certain barrel shapes may be too tight. OEM wheels like the 437M, 763M, and 666M are confirmed to fit. If you are comparing this to a Lexus Big Brake Kit for a different vehicle, the F8x CCB system is notably larger and more demanding regarding inner-barrel clearance.
3. Brake Bias and Software Coding
A common mistake in performance brake kits installation is overlooking the software. The F80 and F82 use a specific master cylinder and brake booster that are generally compatible with the CCB kit, but the DSC/ABS module must be coded. The "CCB VO Coding" changes the brake pressure bias and the way the ABS reacts to the carbon ceramic material's friction coefficient. Without this coding, the pedal feel may be inconsistent, and the car may exhibit "grabby" behavior during light modulation.
4. Performance vs. Cost Planning
Carbon ceramic brakes offer a weight saving of approximately 12.5kg (27.5 lbs) of unsprung mass compared to the standard iron brakes. This improves suspension response and steering feel. However, the retail cost for the full OEM kit often exceeds $12,000–$15,000 depending on the supplier. For owners who find the OEM replacement cost prohibitive, high-quality aftermarket carbon ceramic rotors can provide a more sustainable path for long-term maintenance.
5. Published ForzaCCB Price Reference
ForzaCCB publishes direct-fit rotor pricing by size band rather than dealer-style per-rotor list pricing:
- GT Spec: $2,100 per matched pair, about $1,050 per rotor before shipping, or roughly $1,200 per rotor using a planning allowance of $150 for DDP delivery.
- Street Spec: $1,950 per matched pair, about $975 per rotor before shipping, or roughly $1,125 per rotor using a planning allowance of $150 for DDP delivery.
That does not make the figures directly interchangeable with every dealer quote, but it provides a neutral reference for how direct-fit pricing can sit alongside intermediary retail numbers.
Practical Checklist
- Verify Wheel Size: Ensure you have 19-inch or 20-inch wheels with sufficient barrel clearance.
- Check Part Numbers: Confirm the retrofit kit matches the F80/F82/F83 chassis specifically (Part #34112358378).
- Source Coding Tools: Identify a shop or use software like ESYS/BimmerCode to perform the 2NK option coding.
- Inspect Brake Lines: While the kit uses standard-style lines, many owners choose to upgrade to stainless steel lines during the retrofit for improved pedal firmness.
- Evaluate Brake Pads: Ensure the pads are specifically labeled for carbon ceramic use; iron-rotor pads will destroy the ceramic surface.
Recommended Next Step
Looking to plan the right brake package for BMW owners comparing M3 and M4 setups? Browse our BMW Collection to compare vehicle-specific rotor, caliper, and upgrade options.
FAQ
Q: Can I use the CCB calipers with iron rotors?
A: No. The calipers are offset specifically for the 400mm/380mm stack height of the carbon ceramic rotors. Using them with standard 380mm/370mm iron rotors will lead to incorrect pad sweep and potential failure.
Q: Is the brake master cylinder different for CCBs?
A: In the F8x generation, the master cylinder is shared across most trims, but the software calibration (coding) handles the differences in hydraulic requirements.
Q: How long do the carbon ceramic rotors last on the F80 M3?
A: On the street, they can last over 100,000 miles. However, heavy track use significantly accelerates wear through oxidation. Monitoring the weight or the wear indicators on the disc is essential.
Q: Will the CCB kit fit the F87 M2?
A: Yes, the F80/F82 CCB kit is a popular "Big Brake Kit" upgrade for the F87 M2, provided the owner uses 19-inch wheels.
Explore fitment-focused options here: BMW Collection.
Useful next step: carbon ceramic Big Brake Kit options.
Useful next step: Lexus brake upgrades.
Source Notes
- Source: http://tinnitus911feedback.com/tdcz/e92-m3-carbon-ceramic-brakes
- Source: https://www.apmotorsport.co.uk/product-page/f10-m5-carbon-ceramic-brake-retrofit-kit-1
Professional Disclaimer
All third-party trademarks, brand names, and model names are the property of their respective owners. References are for identification only and do not imply affiliation or endorsement.