I just had two new front tires put on my '91 318is and when I got the car back I noticed a new noise coming from the brakes. The first time the brakes are used, after the car has been sitting, there is a loud click/clunk noise from the front end. It only happens the first time they are used, and work fine after that. It's driving me crazy, especially since I paid to get tires mounted and now something is screwy. I'm sure it's something small, does anyone have recommendations?
Help Identifying Brake Noise
- Thread starter triumphbc
- Start date
If the noise was not present before you had the new tires installed I would go back and have them take them back off and look make sure nothing is binding or striking something else. The other thought is maybe they knocked a brake pad loose from the caliper? I would check it out before driving much more.
I have the problem too.
Actually, thats something ive been dealing with for 2 years now.
All is fine when driving forward and i go to back out of a parking space and use them sharply and, "clunk," they set into place.
Ive had them looked at by my local guy... apparently he isnt a brakes kinda guy because he screwed up my mercedes too.
I was meaning to post this problem, so here it is!
I am going to upgrade my brakes anyhow, suggestions are welcome.
Actually, thats something ive been dealing with for 2 years now.
All is fine when driving forward and i go to back out of a parking space and use them sharply and, "clunk," they set into place.
Ive had them looked at by my local guy... apparently he isnt a brakes kinda guy because he screwed up my mercedes too.
I was meaning to post this problem, so here it is!
I am going to upgrade my brakes anyhow, suggestions are welcome.
How would you know if it's the ABS? I kinda doubt it since the noise was not there until I got the tires replaced. I tested it out this morning, and the noise will happen in 1st or reverse (I suspect any gear) but it only happens the 1st or 2nd time you touch the brake. My guess is that they banged on the caliper and knocked a brake pad around trying to put the wheel back on. I just don't understand why it would only happen the first time, and not all the time. I called them, and of course they claim no responsibility "We didn't work on the brakes." I need to get the wheel off and look, but it's been like 100 degrees outside lately.
If they banged on the caliper you would experience it on more than just the first touch of the brake, you would probably experience it occurring at different times. Take a look but I am not sure you will not find anything out of the ordinary. The ABS check is part of the start up procedure but the noise is only heard (in my case anyway) when initially backing from the garage. You can also feel a slight pulse in the brake pedal at the same time. It is not heard when moving forward. This is normal. If the ABS light stayed on, it would indicate a problem.
I do not know why you never heard it before unless you never took note of it before. If it is not this noise put the car on a lift and check it out by applying the brake and listening and watching. If you still cannot find it try contacting Jared at Pelican Parts or the tech advice column in Bimmer magazine or if you are a BMW CCA member call one of the tech advisors, its free.
I do not know why you never heard it before unless you never took note of it before. If it is not this noise put the car on a lift and check it out by applying the brake and listening and watching. If you still cannot find it try contacting Jared at Pelican Parts or the tech advice column in Bimmer magazine or if you are a BMW CCA member call one of the tech advisors, its free.
Last edited: