Hi,

Just bought a pre owned 97 328i from a private owner. The car drives like a rocket, corner like its on rails and stops like its got anchors. (Short of an M3 of course)

Problem: the brakes screech when the vehicle slows from 20kmh to stop. There is no noise at any other speeds, and only screeches when the brakes are warm (Ie not hot, or when cold). Took it back to the service center who could find no fault with the brakes except for the noise. Some history, both rear and front discs and pads have been changed along with the sensor wires last august. All parts are original BMW. The service center said that its due to the new compounds they use in the pads, eg no asbestos etc

How do I get rid of the noise without spending anymore money? The noise is really annoying, when slowing to a standstill at the traffic lights, all heads turn to look at what sounds like a truck coming to a stop!!!. Embarassing.

Hi Jason328. I had this problem many a time before and only resolved it recently on my 320i. If the disks are quite worn and only the pads are changed ANY vehicle will produce this screeching sound (I also had it with my zxr400 motorcycle) if the owner hasn't been gentle with braking until the pads have properly bedded in (ideally 150 miles).
Unfortunately, unless you at least change your pads and take it easy on the brakes for a while you're stuck with the squeal.
There is one other posibility but it's doubtful and that's if you motor's leaking fluid onto the disk.
I know how you feel mate. Good luck.

I had this noise on my 328i 97 go to advanced auto or something similar spend the two bucks on a tube of brake squeal reducer. The pads are vibrating in the caliper and causing this noise. You apply a even coat to the back sides of your pads let it dry and reinstall them this will absorb the vibration which eliminates the noise. trust me it's that simple