Brake work - is my dealer on drugs?

[ahlberg]

So my dealer says I need rear brake work. For $445, they suggest pads, sensor and rotors. (What's the sensor anyway - are we talking ABS or something else?) So is my dealer high, literally of figuratively? Thanks for the wisdom, guys.

Also, just bought ContiExtreme Contact tires. They're 205/55/16''. Used tirerack.com and had a great experience. I think I saved at least $100. Anyway, I will report back when I know more. Thanks again.

[Celsdogg]

the sensors detect when you need new pads, at least thats what the ones in my E30 do, i would guess they would be the same for what ever your 3er is. . there is also a sensor for the abs, i am sure someone can tell you more about that then i can. . .

[BMWTECH]

Of course I can. It is a brake pad wear sensor, just like the e30's cels. The new technology though, with the 7's is a 2 stage brake pad wear sesnsor, it calculates how many miles you have left by how long it took from brand new to the first stage of the sensor. Things are only getting better folks. Hope this helps. Price wise, its about right. The dealer always does it the right way, in my oppinion. The rotors are too soft to turn. They will be below specs safety wise if a independant shop were to turn the rotors. Also, always use bmw pads, there in my oppinion much better than competitors, for every day use that is.

[Celsdogg]

sorry tech,

i dont use bmw brake pads, i think they leave too much dust. . .i get the ones that leave minimal brake dust. . .

stopping power feels the same i'd say. . .

[Hoosier]

Originally posted by Celsdogg
sorry tech,

i dont use bmw brake pads, i think they leave too much dust. . .i get the ones that leave minimal brake dust. . .

stopping power feels the same i'd say. . .

What do you use? I am tired of $10 a week for car washes just to get the brake dust off.