Brake Pad Replacement

[Guest Andrew]

Did this not so long ago on my mums 318i. Good on the Bentleys manual.

To remove:

1- Remove the rear wheels. Release parking brake

2 - On the right wheel, Separate the brake pad wear sensor connector and remove the wire from the clip on the guide bolt cap (at the bottom of the caliper)

3 - Pry out the 2 plastic caps which protect the caliper guide bolts. Remove the two internal-hex head guide bolts.

4 - Remove the anti-rattle spring. Unhook it from the caliper housing.

5- Pull the caliper straight off the rotor. Lift out the outer brake pad from the pad carrier. Pull out the inner pad from the caliper together with its spring.

Do the same for the other wheel. Don't let the brake hose support the weight of the caliper and don't kink the hose.

To Install

1 - Place outer brake pad in position on the brake pad carrier. Place the inner brake pad with its spring into position on the brake carrier.

2 - Gently push the piston back into the caliper to provide clearance for the thicker new brake pads. be careful not to push the piston past the outer edge of the piston dust seal. (when pushing back the piston use a rag to stop damage occuring to the piston)

3 - Inspect the guide bolts. If they are damaged replace them. Position the caliper onto the brake pad carrier and in stall the guide bolts. Torque guide bolts to 30 to 35 Nm (22 to 25 ft. lb). Install the protective caps.

4- When working on the right wheel: Reconnect the brake wear sensor connector and attach it to the mounting clip. Route the wiring through the clip on the guide bolt cover.

5- Put wheels back on and lower the car then torque up lug nuts.

6- Before running the engine or moving the car, slowly pump the brake pedal using several short strokes to seat the new pads.

7 - Check the brake fluid level, If needed add fluid to the MAX mark.

Hope that helps you.