Genuine BMW Disc Brake Caliper Anchor Plate Bolt

The caliper anchor plate bolt, also called a caliper carrier bolt, caliper bracket mounting bolt or caliper support bolt, is a small fastener with a big job. It secures the caliper carrier (the anchor plate) to the steering knuckle or rear hub, and that carrier holds the caliper and brake pads in exact alignment with the rotor. Every time you brake, these bolts carry the full reaction force of the caliper. That is why many owners choose Genuine BMW hardware when the carrier comes off for a pad, rotor or caliper job.

Why OEM Hardware Matters for Caliper Mounting

BMW specifies caliper carrier bolts by thread size, length, head style and strength rating for each chassis and brake package. Genuine BMW parts are listed by part number for specific models and brake configurations, rather than generic fit. Examples include part 34116772428, an M12x1.5x32 hex bolt used on E36, E46, E9X, E82 and Z4 platforms. Another is 34116778234, a caliper bracket bolt cataloged for X5 models from 2007 to 2018. Newer platforms use different fasteners, such as the Torx screw with washer under part number 34108838589, listed for 2017 and later rear applications including xDrive models with M Sport brakes.

Fitment can vary even within one model line. Some bolts are specified for blue-painted calipers or for non-M Sport brake packages, while others apply to M Sport brakes. Checking your VIN or brake package against the part listing is the best way to get the right bolt.

Single-Use Fasteners and Torque Specs

Many modern BMW caliper carrier bolts are designed as torque-to-yield or coated fasteners. Some catalog entries for Genuine BMW carrier bolts carry a note that the part cannot be reused or reinstalled once removed. Replacing these bolts whenever the carrier is removed restores the intended clamping force and thread condition. Reusing a stretched or corroded bolt risks a loose carrier, uneven pad wear, brake noise or, in the worst case, a compromised brake assembly.

What to Look For When Replacing These Bolts

• Thread and length: Carrier bolts differ between front and rear axles and between chassis generations, so match the exact part number.
• Head style: Depending on the application, you may need a hex head, a hex screw with collar, or a Torx screw with washer.
• Brake package: Standard, M Sport and M brakes can use different hardware.
• Replace as a set: Swap both bolts on each carrier, and use a calibrated torque wrench to tighten them to BMW's specification.

Part of a Complete Brake Job

Carrier bolts are best replaced alongside fresh pads, rotors and slide hardware. Doing so means the entire caliper mounting system is back to factory condition. Browse the full Disc Brake Caliper Anchor Plate Bolt category to compare options across brands, or visit the Genuine BMW brand page for other factory-spec components for your vehicle.

For owners who want their brakes to feel and perform the way BMW's engineers intended, factory-specified carrier hardware is an inexpensive way to protect a critical safety system. Genuine BMW fasteners are made to the same standards as the parts installed when the car was built.