Brake Pads?? HELP!!

[shadyy510]

I have a 2000 BMW 323CI and my brake pad light just came on, I checked my brake pads and looks like my front needs a replacement. But my question is do I need to also replace the rotors with the front brake pads?? OR Can I just get them Re-Surfaced again?? Some mechanic told me that I can only replace them and bmw rotors cannot be re-surfaced!! Also, need to replace the front sensors too, rite?? HELP!!

THX! in advance!!!

 

[Big Daddy]

BMW does not recommend having rotors turned, that is one reason why the replacements are so inexpensive (depending on your model car of course), and either way I would not turn my rotors unless there was a reason to do so. Have them inspected for thickness and to see if they are true.

 

[B M W]

Yes you need to replace the front sensor. Its about $5 for a sensor. Just replace the pads unless youve been riding your calipers down to the metal.

 

[Fisher]

I had the same exact question. I was told by the shop here that they could not turn the rotors. I now understand that, but I still think I am getting jerked around because they automatically wanted to put new rotors on without checking out the old rotors. I only have 50,000 miles on my 2002, so am I off base or is that a little too soon to replace rotors?

Thanks,
Fisher

 

[Big Daddy]

Too soon if there is no other reason, are they warpped, damaged (gouged), or otherwise unserviceable? I have my originals on and have 50k, they will need replaing next time though.

 

[Fisher]

They gave me no explanation at all. They just make me feel like I don't understand the BMW and this just needs to be done or else. Since it is dealing with the braking system I have a hard time not trusting the guys because I know they will do a great job and I will be safe, but at the same time I don't want to get screwed either. I'll ask for an explanation from them and if I still feel like they are jerking me around I will find a new shop.

Fisher

 

[Big Daddy]

I can replace every part of your braking system and you should feel safe, but was it necessary? Rotors either get too thin from wear (not too likely in 50k) or they get damaged, warpped, cracked or gouged. Ask them to mic the rotors for thickness if they are claiming they are too thin, otherwise have them point out the damage.

 

[Fisher]

Good to know BD. I am going to have a talk with the owner today and if I don't hear the things I want to hear I am going to tell him he just lost a customer. This place has been pushing their luck for a while and I am about sick of it. Thanks for the info. I am glad I found this site and I will definately recomend it to my friends who drive BMWs too.

Fisher