What Kind of Brake Pads Does a 2007 BMW 328i Use?

The 2007 BMW 328i typically uses OEM-style low-metallic or ceramic disc brake pads, with specific pad shapes and part numbers that depend on whether the car has standard or sport brakes and whether it’s the front or rear axle. In most North American models, the 2007 328i (E90/E92/E93) uses front pads equivalent to BMW part number 34 11 6 778 780 and rear pads equivalent to 34 21 6 778 785, though verifying by VIN is strongly recommended due to build and option differences.

Understanding the 2007 BMW 328i Brake System

The 2007 BMW 328i is part of the E90-generation 3 Series (E90 sedan, E91 wagon, E92 coupe, E93 convertible). All versions use ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid or ventilated discs at the rear, depending on market and spec. The car is designed around European-style pad compounds that prioritize strong, consistent braking and precise pedal feel, even at the cost of producing more brake dust than many mainstream cars.

Front vs. Rear Brake Pad Types

Front and rear pads are not interchangeable on this model; they differ in size, thickness, and shape. The front axle does most of the braking work and uses larger pads, while the rear axle uses smaller pads tailored to balance stability, ABS, and traction control performance.

OEM Brake Pad Specifications for the 2007 BMW 328i

For owners who want their 2007 BMW 328i to stop and behave as BMW intended, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or OEM-equivalent pads are the benchmark. These parts are engineered to match rotor size, caliper design, ABS tuning, and wear sensor behavior.

Typical OEM-Style Part Numbers

The following list summarizes the most commonly used BMW and OEM-equivalent part numbers you will encounter when sourcing replacement brake pads for a 2007 328i. Exact fitment can vary by body style, build date, and whether the vehicle has sport or performance brakes, so these should be treated as common examples, not guaranteed for every car.

• Front pads (most non-M 2007 328i models, NA market): BMW 34 11 6 778 780 (pad set)

  Common OEM suppliers/box brands: Textar, Jurid, ATE, TRW.

• Rear pads (most non-M 2007 328i models, NA market): BMW 34 21 6 778 785 (pad set)

  Common OEM suppliers/box brands: Textar, Jurid, ATE, TRW.

• Wear sensors:

  Front: BMW 34 35 6 789 445 (typical for many E90 328i)

  Rear: BMW 34 35 6 789 446 (typical for many E90 328i).

• Performance or sport brake packages: Some cars with factory “sport” or dealer-installed performance kits may use different pad shapes and part numbers, often supplied under BMW Performance or M Performance branding; these still remain low-metallic or semi-metallic compounds but with higher friction and heat tolerance.
• European vs. U.S. variations: Certain European-market E90/E92 328i models can have different pad references due to alternative suppliers, axle load ratings, or regional regulations, although pad compound type and general performance targets remain similar.

In practice, most 2007 BMW 328i owners in North America will see front and rear pad sets cross-referenced to these part numbers or listed as “fits E90/E92/E93 328i” by reputable parts catalogs, but VIN-based confirmation remains the safest step before purchase.

Pad Compound Type Used From the Factory

BMW’s factory pads for the 2007 328i are typically low-metallic or semi-metallic formulations, sometimes described by brands as “ceramic-enhanced” or “low-copper European compound.” The key point is that they are engineered for strong initial bite, predictable friction under repeated braking, and compatibility with the factory rotors and electronic stability systems, even if that means more dust than many non-European cars.

Common Aftermarket Options and How They Differ

While the car left the factory on low-metallic European-style pads, owners often choose among several aftermarket pad types to change dust levels, noise, pedal feel, or track suitability. Each type has specific trade-offs in performance and comfort.

Major Brake Pad Compound Categories

The following list explains the main types of brake pad compounds commonly offered for the 2007 BMW 328i, along with how each type changes everyday driving, dust levels, and rotor wear.

• OEM-equivalent low-metallic/semi-metallic:
  Closest match to factory feel and performance. Strong initial bite, very consistent in wet and dry, and good for spirited road driving. Downsides: relatively high brake dust and sometimes mild squeal when pads are cold.
• Ceramic street pads:
  Lower dust and generally quieter operation; wheels stay cleaner. Brake feel can be slightly softer, with a bit less aggressive initial bite. Good choice for daily drivers who prioritize cleanliness and comfort over maximum sporty feel.
• Performance street/track pads (aggressive semi-metallic or hybrid):
  Higher friction at elevated temperatures, more resistant to fade during repeated hard stops or light track use. Often louder, may produce more dust, and can wear rotors faster. Overkill for calm city driving but appreciated by enthusiastic drivers.
• Full track/race pads:
  Designed to withstand very high temperatures, but often noisy, dusty, and poor-feeling when cold. Typically not recommended for a street-driven 328i unless the car regularly sees serious track use and the owner accepts compromises in normal driving.

For most 2007 BMW 328i owners using the car primarily on public roads, a quality OEM-equivalent or ceramic street pad offers the best blend of safety, comfort, and cost, with performance-oriented compounds more appropriate for drivers who frequently push brakes to the limit.

How to Identify the Correct Pads for Your Specific 2007 328i

Because the 3 Series line has many variations—sedan vs. coupe, sport package, different markets—the surest path to the right pad set is to identify the car precisely and cross-check parts before ordering.

Steps to Confirm Compatibility

The following list outlines a practical approach to identifying the exact brake pads your 2007 BMW 328i requires, minimizing the risk of ordering the wrong shape or compound.

1. Use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number):
   Input the full VIN into a BMW parts catalog (such as realoem.com, or official dealer systems) or a major online retailer that supports VIN lookup. This filters results to the correct body style, engine, and brake package.
2. Check build date and body style:
   Some parts vary slightly by production month/year or by E90 (sedan), E91 (wagon), E92 (coupe), or E93 (convertible). Checking the build date on the driver’s door jamb sticker helps align with catalog notes.
3. Confirm rotor diameter and caliper type:
   If in doubt, measure rotor diameter or inspect calipers. Different rotor sizes sometimes correlate with different pad shapes, especially on cars with sport or upgraded brakes.
4. Cross-reference OEM numbers with brands:
   Once you have a BMW part number, cross-reference it with your chosen brand (e.g., Textar, ATE, Akebono, Brembo, Hawk, etc.). Most reputable manufacturers clearly state which BMW references their pads replace.
5. Replace wear sensors when changing pads:
   The 2007 328i uses electronic pad wear sensors, typically one on the front and one on the rear. They are inexpensive and should usually be replaced with each pad change to ensure the dashboard warning functions correctly.

Following these steps greatly reduces fitment errors and ensures that replacement pads work seamlessly with the car’s ABS, DSC, and brake warning systems, preserving both safety and convenience.

Practical Recommendations for Different Driver Priorities

Not every 2007 BMW 328i owner uses the car the same way. Some commute quietly, others drive mountain roads on weekends, and a few may even see occasional track time. Brake pad choice can be tailored to these different use cases.

Choosing the Right Pad for Your Use Case

The following list breaks down recommended pad types based on how the car is primarily driven, giving owners a clearer path to selection without needing to be brake specialists.

• Daily commuter, mostly city/highway, wants clean wheels:
  High-quality ceramic street pads (e.g., Akebono Euro or similar). You get low dust, quiet operation, and adequate performance for normal driving, though the pedal may feel slightly less aggressive than OEM.
• Spirited street driving, wants OEM-like feel:
  OEM or OEM-equivalent low-metallic pads from brands like Textar, ATE, Jurid, or TRW. These deliver the classic BMW brake feel, with strong bite and consistent performance, at the cost of more dust.
• Occasional track days or mountain runs:
  Performance-oriented pads marketed for “street/track” use from specialist brands (e.g., Hawk HPS/HP+, Ferodo DS Performance, etc.), matched with good rotors and high-boiling-point fluid. Expect more dust and possibly more noise, but stronger performance when hot.
• Strictly budget-focused replacement:
  Even when saving money, it is wise not to use unknown ultra-cheap pads. Choose a known brand’s entry-level line that specifically lists BMW 328i/E90 fitment; this keeps safety acceptable while controlling costs.

Selecting pads to match real-world driving needs ensures that the 2007 328i stops safely and predictably, while minimizing annoyance from dust, noise, or premature wear, and avoids overspending on capabilities that will never be used.

Summary

The 2007 BMW 328i uses disc brake pads engineered in a European low-metallic style, with commonly cited OEM-equivalent part numbers around BMW 34 11 6 778 780 for the front and 34 21 6 778 785 for the rear, though exact references can vary by body style, market, and equipment. These factory-style pads offer strong braking performance and a firm pedal, but they generate noticeable brake dust. Owners can choose among OEM-equivalent, ceramic, or performance-oriented pads depending on whether they prioritize clean wheels, factory-like feel, or higher-temperature capability. Because of small but important variations within the E90-generation range, confirming pads by VIN and build details is the most reliable way to ensure the correct fit and performance for any individual 2007 BMW 328i.

What type of brake pads does BMW use?

BMW Brake Pads
BMW’s brake pads are made from high-quality materials, and there are different types of brake pads available, including ceramic, metallic, and organic compounds. Ceramic brake pads are the most expensive but offer the best performance and durability.

How much does it cost to replace brakes on a BMW 328i?

The cost to replace the brakes on a BMW 328i varies significantly, ranging from approximately $300–$600 for a DIY brake pad replacement to $850–$1,800+ for a full replacement of pads and rotors at a dealership. Factors like whether you replace just pads or pads and rotors, the use of OEM versus aftermarket parts, and where you get the service done (DIY, independent shop, or dealership) all influence the final price. 
Cost by service type

• DIY (Brake pads only): Under $200 for parts, as noted on AutoZone.com. You can find good quality parts for all four corners for under $800, which is what www.autowerkes.com says one DIY enthusiast did. 
• DIY (Pads and rotors): Around $500-$800 for premium aftermarket parts for all four corners, according to Bimmerpost and www.autowerkes.com. This is a labor-only cost, as the Reddit community suggests it’s a DIY job for many. 
• Independent shop:
  • Pads only: Approximately $230–$280 for front and rear pads. 
  • Pads and rotors: Around $650–$950 for front and rear pads and rotors. 
• Dealership:
  • Pads only:
    • Front: Approximately $460–$650. 
    • Rear: Approximately $410–$570. 
  • Pads and rotors:
    • Front: $870–$1,270. 
    • Rear: $860–$1,240. 
    • Front and rear: $1,400–$1,800+, depending on the model and dealership. 

Factors that influence the cost

• Labor costs: The biggest factor is the hourly labor rate, which varies by location and the type of shop you choose. 
• Parts quality: The cost can vary depending on whether you choose high-quality OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts or cheaper aftermarket parts. 
• Extent of damage: If other components like calipers are damaged, they may need to be replaced, which will increase the final cost. 

Which brakes are used in BMW?

Disc brakes
Disc brakes are the most prevalent type of brakes used in modern BMW vehicles.

How do I tell what type of brake pads I need?

If you have a high-performance sports car, or at least drive your vehicle like one, you’re likely better off choosing semi metallic brake pads. On the other hand, if you do a lot of urban commuting, you might find a solid ceramic brake pad to be the better option.