Handbrake actuator

Central actuator type

The earlier central actuators have some common faults which are particularly prevalent in the E70/E71, but are also seen in the F15/F16.

The main issue with central actuators are that the cables become stretched over time. Once the cables are stretched they can become tangled or cause the motor to overwork and fail. Additionally, the circuit boards within the central actuators are also prone to failure.

Caliper actuator type

As of writing this (2024) the later type of actuators located on the calipers aren’t a common problem, but occasionally fail. If you do need one, you will probably need buy a set of calipers as we typically don’t separate them. See our stock of calipers here.

Many of the later BMWs use electric park brakes, including almost all of the current line up.

BMW’s earlier electric park brake system, used in the E70/E71, F10/F11, F12/F13 and F15/F16 utilise a central actuator which is connected to the park brakes with cables. When the park brake switch is engaged the actuators wind up the cables and apply the park brakes. The third cable in a central actuator assembly is a manual release cable.

BMW’s later electric park brake system, used in many builds including F25, F40 and G01 is a much simpler system, utilising two actuators which are directly attached to each of the rear calipers. When the park brake switch is engaged these actuators apply force to engage the calipers, pushing the brake pads up against the discs (without having to use the hydraulic system.)

Typically a model generation will only have one type of park brake actuator.

The best way to determine fitment compatibility of a park brake actuator is to match the BMW part numbers from the catalogue. This can be done by decoding your vehicle’s VIN in a BMW EPC (electronic part catalogue.)

If you don’t have access to an EPC, provide our team with your vehicle’s 17-digit VIN—and we’ll check our stock for a compatible match.

Central actuators have low interchangeability on account of the cables being specific to the vehicle dimensions—whereas the caliper actuators are highly interchangeable between models.