what parts do i need to buy for my brake job?

[x5boy]

I have a 2004 x5 3.0 with 54,500 miles on it. The Check Brake Lining indicator light came on a week ago. Can someone tell me what parts I need to buy to do the brake job myself? I check my rotors and there's a small lip from wear down. Do i need to replace the pad, rotors and sensors? Please help. Thanks

[JCL]

First, you need to pull one front wheel and one rear wheel and see how much pad is left. You don't know from the light if you need front brakes, rear brakes, or both.

At the minimum, you need either front or rear pads, and either the front or rear sensor (they are not reusable).

I would change the rotors, as it often isn't worth the trouble to save them. Others will reuse them. There is a minimum thickness stamped on the back of the rotor. If reusing them, you will need to take the lip off them. Again, I would just replace them.

Personally, I prefer Axxis Deluxe pads and OEM rotors. Less dust, similar performance as OEM. You can get the Axxis pads from Zeckhausen Racing, a board sponsor.

[X5 Meister]

If you've never done it yourself then you might have a professional do the job since it's a little involved (not that it's terribly difficult). The reason I say this is that you need to have proper supports for the car while it's up (never rely on only the jack), some proper tools including a torque wrench (also brake piston compression tool, large screwdriver, socket wrench set), the necessary parts (pads, rotors, rotor set screws, sensors), chemicals (brake cleaner, copper paste, brake pad paste) and supplies (gloves, cleaning cloths). Read through the 4 or 5 great write-ups on this page and see what's involved.

Xoutpost.com - x5tips.htm

[lo_jack]

New brake fluid makes a big difference, especially if your current stuff is around 2 years or so old.

[x5boy]

Thanks you guys for all the great tips. This helps a lot. I have an experienced friend who has a garage we can work in that would help make things easier.