Is it ok to have my brake pads changed out at a local simple simon or should I bring it to the dealership?
2007-09-17 03:42:11 · 7 answers · asked by spoildrotn 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Makes ➔ BMW
You do not need a new set of rotors every time you replace your brake pads.
On average, a set of rotors will last you about 2 sets of pads. No sense "turning" your rotors now since they're fairly cheap to buy new (Brembo rotors).
You also do not need your brake fluid flushed every time you change your pads. Brake fluid flush is part of BMW's Inspection 2.
Any competent mechanic can change your pads. Just make sure they also change the brake wear sensor (you need 2). If possible, choose a place which allows you to bring in your brake pads, get them from www.bavauto.com. Mintex are good OEM quality pads.
2007-09-18 18:22:36 · answer #1 · answered by Snowie 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
The reason why BMW brake jobs are pricey is becuse they do a total brake job. They replace everything with new parts to get you back to as close to new as possible. This includes:
New brake rotors
New brake pads
Flush the brake fluid
Most places and other brands will turn (mill off a few milimeters) the rotors to get them to a smooth surface and put brand new pads on an old brake rotor. To me this makes no sense.
If you don't go to a dealership to have it done, just make sure the place you go to will do a proper brake job. Keep in mind, you're trusting your life with those brakes.
2007-09-18 16:57:24 · answer #2 · answered by thatguyinthisplace 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Brake pads are sooo easy to change on a late model BMW, that you do not need to bring it to the dealer and spend $4-600. I recommend Axxis Deluxe pads. They are far less dusty than OEM (BMW) pads and have equivalent stopping power. I also recommend new rotors (Brembo) since you dont know when they were last replaced. I never heard of Simple Simon, but most independent auto service shops should be able to do the job quickly and for a whole lot less.
2007-09-19 18:20:22 · answer #3 · answered by edco 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Depends on what you want from your BMW.
Brakes are a simple procedure that most people can do from their own garage.
If you want to maintain the original experience that you're used to from your BMW, then you should use Pagid brake pads.
Going to a Meineke you're not going to get apples to apples and at best you're going to save less then $100.
You have to ask yourself if $100 is worth your safety and the quality experience of anything other than OEM equipment like Pagid or higher grade.
I equate it to the likes of a helmet. If you're buying a helmet (that protects your brain and skull) then how much is that brain worth? Highest quality is usually the answer.
All the best.
2007-09-19 03:41:31 · answer #4 · answered by 8020rule 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Thatguyinthisplace is right. The reason you need to have the rotors replaced is because BMW makes the rotors to such a tight tolerance that after wearing through a set of pads you can't machine them and keep them within tolerance. Taking your car to a certified BMW shop or dealership is the way to go.
Spend the extra money and have piece of mind.
2007-09-18 17:37:48 · answer #5 · answered by ironcurtain1977 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Changing brake pads is a simple job. Any good workshop should be able to do this in about one hour (all 4 wheels). No need to waste extra money for the same job by taking it to the dealers.
2007-09-17 11:45:51 · answer #6 · answered by al_sheda 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
dealership for sure! it costs a lot but they do a better job, have trained professionals specifically for your car, and you will get a 2 year warranty for the new brakes they put on.
2007-09-18 05:28:22 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋