Had my 3.0 in for a unrelated problem and the adviser told my wife that I needed brakes, specifically pads and rotors. I'm a little surprised at 44K to need new rotors, especially on the rear. I've never had any rotor related symptoms( pulsing, grinding, etc.). But $950 when I was thinking just new pads would do? Can anyone share experiences?. Thanks.
rotor replacement
- Thread starter TO//M
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I'd like to know about this too. I've heard once or twice that replacing the rotors is a common maintenance thing with BMW's. I've even heard that it's not unusual to change rotors and pads together. This just seems impossible to me. I've never replaced rotors on a non-BMW car before, not even after 200K miles, so I can't imagine why you'd need to replace rotors at 44K unless you are using VERY abrasive brake pads. I have always used Axxis Deluxe Plus pads on the Zed, and they are quite rotor-friendly on the abrasion scale, and my last service check at 55K miles showed the rotors to be fine, well within specs. Anyone have more particular info on the longevity of the rotors?
44k would not be unusual and frankly it is entirely dependant upon the type and style of driving. Unless replaced early due to any distortion, cracks, wobbles, etc. they they are replaced a tthe minimum wear thickness as stamped on the edge
TxMike - when you change rotors you would always change pads, else the new rotors are scored and damaged to whatever groove pattern was worn into them by the old rotors. Pads of course can be changed alone
TxMike - when you change rotors you would always change pads, else the new rotors are scored and damaged to whatever groove pattern was worn into them by the old rotors. Pads of course can be changed alone
Iv'e nearly always replaced Discs (Rotors!?) and Pads together on all my cars due to opting for higher friction pad material (Like Mintex 1144/1155 or Pagid RS14's) . I think performance pads eat away the discs much faster...
They should be replaced when there is a lip >1.5mm when changing the pads imho.
They should be replaced when there is a lip >1.5mm when changing the pads imho.
Liverpool
If my replacement cycle follows my e34 M5 cycle, then it'll be 3 sets of pads for 1 set of discs. Pads about every 10,000 miles, discs about every 30,000 miles - plus tyres every 10,000 miles of course.
Although I do appreciate the Z is 300-400kg lighter than my e34 M5 - and am looking forward to saving a bit of cash on maintenance
Although I do appreciate the Z is 300-400kg lighter than my e34 M5 - and am looking forward to saving a bit of cash on maintenance
I will be doing replacement of my pads this year. As long as I am in there, I think I may as well replace the rotors as it is just one more step and after you have the calipers off taking the rotors off and replacing them is just a simple move from there. The only problem I have is what rotors to put on. I would like to put on something better than stock but I don’t want to go overboard. :?
cj10jeeper said:
Oh yes, naturally, but when I said "at the same time" I meant I had heard of people changing rotors every time the pads need changing. I have never seen rotors that need to be replaced that frequently, although apparently some people are harder on the rotors than I have ever been.
TxMike said:cj10jeeper said:
Oh yes, naturally, but when I said "at the same time" I meant I had heard of people changing rotors every time the pads need changing. I have never seen rotors that need to be replaced that frequently, although apparently some people are harder on the rotors than I have ever been.
I had a ford that needed new discs and pads every 6,000 miles.
I also had a Z4 2.5 that needed new discs every 25,000.
It all depends on how you drive.
When it gets a little warmer I shall swap all 4 of my worn discs for new BMW ones (already purchased). I was thinking of aftermarket upgrades but then I thought - Do I really have a problem with the standard setup for road use? In short - No.
They are a consumable - and far cheaper than the ceramic ones some cars use.
If times are tough - just swap the pads but don't do that too often.
Enjoy the ride but remember how important the stopping is.
Sceptre
I did some research and the results are not really heart warming. Evidently, BMW and Mercedes use a softer grade of steel for their rotors. The result is less brake noise and less service life. The multi-piston calipers magnify this problem. More squeeze, more wear. The good news for us BMW owners, the Mercedes rotors wear a lot faster. So I guess my brake usage is the issue that has brought this issue to the forum. I do use them. My rear tire life is about 18k. It's a sport car. I drive it. I just wasn't expecting the replacement cots at this mileage. When I traded my previous car (1998 MZ3) at 45k, the rotors were fine. So, I'll just suck it up and pay the piper.
