BMW E90 Brake Pad Sensor Replacement Made Simple: A Quick and Effective Solution

Replacing the brake pad sensor on a BMW E90 is a crucial maintenance task that ensures optimal braking performance and timely alerts for necessary pad replacement. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions and essential tips to successfully complete this repair.

Tools and Materials Required:

• New brake pad sensor
• Socket wrench set
• Torque wrench
• Jack and jack stands
• Tire chocks
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Safety Precautions:

• Park your BMW E90 on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Place tire chocks behind the wheels opposite the side you’ll be working on.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from potential hazards.

2. Raise the Vehicle:

• Position the jack near the appropriate lifting point for the side you’re working on.
• Use the jack to lift the vehicle until there is approximately 6 inches of clearance between the tire and the ground.
• Secure the vehicle with jack stands.

3. Remove the Wheel:

• Use the socket wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel.
• Carefully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

4. Locate the Brake Pad Sensor:

• The brake pad sensor is typically located on the inside brake pad.
• It is a small, wire-like component that extends from the brake pad.

5. Disconnect the Sensor:

• Using the socket wrench or a small flathead screwdriver, gently pry the sensor connector off the brake pad.
• Be careful not to damage the sensor or its wires.

6. Remove the Old Sensor:

• Once the sensor is disconnected, remove it from the brake pad.

7. Install the New Sensor:

• Insert the new brake pad sensor into the designated hole on the brake pad.
• Ensure that the sensor is securely seated and facing the correct direction.

8. Connect the New Sensor:

• Attach the connector to the new sensor and push it firmly into place.

9. Reinstall the Wheel:

• Place the wheel back on the hub and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
• Use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque (refer to your vehicle’s manual).

10. Lower the Vehicle:

• Carefully lower the vehicle by removing the jack stands.
• Fully tighten the lug nuts using the torque wrench.

11. Repeat for the Other Side:

• Follow the same steps to replace the brake pad sensor on the other side of the vehicle.

Resetting the Brake Pad Wear Indicator:

• After replacing the brake pad sensors, it is necessary to reset the brake pad wear indicator.
• Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to perform this reset.

Tips for Success:

• Inspect the brake pads for wear while replacing the sensors. If they are worn down significantly, replace them as well.
• Use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening of the lug nuts.
• If you encounter any difficulties or have any doubts, do not hesitate to consult a qualified mechanic.

Wrap-Up:

Replacing the brake pad sensor on a BMW E90 is a straightforward task that can be completed with the right tools and knowledge. By following these instructions, you can ensure that your vehicle’s braking system remains in optimal condition and provides you with timely alerts for necessary pad replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How often should I replace the brake pad sensors?
A1: It is recommended to replace the brake pad sensors every time the brake pads are replaced.

Q2: Can I drive with a faulty brake pad sensor?
A2: Driving with a faulty brake pad sensor is not recommended as it may prevent you from receiving timely alerts for necessary pad replacement.

Q3: How can I tell if my brake pad sensor is faulty?
A3: Common signs of a faulty brake pad sensor include a dashboard warning light, intermittent or unreliable brake pad wear alerts, or a noticeable decrease in braking performance.