Brake light is on

[mspillberg2000]

Hi;
I got a 2002 X5 with 40,500 miles on it. We had ice and snow here in Dallas last week and thats when the light came on. Could it be just a sensor? How can I check it myself, or should I take it to a brake place and have them look at it? If it needs pad replacement I will take it to the BMW, How much usually costs?
Thanks

[drew]

~ the sensor light usually only comes on if the pad depth is low. time for new pads.

[Boston X5 4.4]

Sounds like it is time for front and/or rear brake job unless you replaced pads recently and have a faulty sensor.
Heres my 2c worth

- BMW rotors are 'softer' than others and may need to be replaced the same time. The dealer or independant will check to see if they are within tolerance and need to be replaced or not. Two schools of though and strong opinions on this site as to whether or not it's good practice or a waste of money to replace the rotors when you replace the pads. Use the search function and make up your own mind on this one. For what its worth, I had my front and rears replaced under warranty and they replaced rotors and pads.
- In my experience fronts go before the rears so its probably just a front brake job.
- You can do it yourself pretty easily - DIY on main page.
- If you are not comfortable doing it yourself a fulll front and rear brake job (rotors and pads) will cost ~ $1,200 at the dealership and considerably less at an independant.

Good luck

[mspillberg2000]

I never had them replaced. I guess I will call around and get the pads replaced.
Thanks