Cracked Disk - Warranty or Not

[moonigan]

Hi,

I've just noticed a small hairline crack in my front drivers side disk. The crack starts at one of the drilled holes about 1/2 down the disk and then follows the circumference of the disk for about 2-3 inches (about 75% of the way to the next drilled hole). The car has done 13,000 miles and is still under the manufacturers warranty. I have just spoken to the BMW dealer in Bolton and they said no chance would they be able to claim but they could get some new disks and pads fitted at a competetive rate. I also spoke to Halliwell Jones who suggested it was dangerous and could be replaced under warranty and that I should get BMW assist to recover the car (Which seems a little OTT to me).

Has anyone else had a similar issue. In my opinion a set of disks should be good for at least 30K even if the car is driven hard.

Cheers
Paul

 

[AlanJ]

I agree with the dealer - don't drive it! If you have an accident as a result of the disc breaking up then stand by for a hefty fine etc. not to mention the damage it has the potential to do to your Zed. Fatal accident then you a looking at doing time.... yes really! Just get it recovered and a new disc (do both sides). The issue of who is at fault in terms of the disc cracking is really a secondary issue to your safety and that of other road users

 

[Darren M]

Safety aside, it's a difficult one. Drilled disks are more prone to cracking than solid ones I believe, however I'd expect BMW OEM discs to be pretty good. Have you used aftermarket pads? If yes, I doubt BMW would allow a warranty claim. If no, it's possible, but they could argue that the type of driving has caused the cracking. I can guess that for example if you went out on track and nailed the brake pedal to the bulkhead on the very first bend from a high speed, that 'could' cause the problem as might a similar move on the road, but then again it might be made worse by any imperfections in the metal.

As it's an issue on safety, personally and providing no aftermarket pads have been used and the car hasn't been tracked, I'd expect BMW to cover it under warranty to be honest and I would push for that outcome.