Check Brake Lining
 

Hi All, I just replaced rotors, pads and sensors on the 2003 X5 3.0. However, the dash message still reads "Check Brake Lining". I can imagine several issues ... bad sensor installation (they appear to be asymmetrical and I don't know precisely I put them), could be a bad connection to the car, or maybe I need some sort of computer reset. All help appreciated.

FWIW I seem not to be able to search the site right now so perhaps it is answered somewhere else but I can't find it.

Second note, I did spend as long to get one of the rotor set screws out as it took to do everything else (soaking time mostly before I attacked it with a drill bit) so I am a bit dense right now (more than usual).

If the check brake pad warning light was on before you changed the pads and if you reused the old sensor(s) then that is the problem/solution. The sensors are one time use, IF they have been hit by the rotor which creates a break in the wiring circuit which then turns on the light on the dash.

If you replaced them, check the connectors to ensure they are seated and have clicked into place.

Helpful?

Thanks, I did replace the sensors. They appear to by asymmetrical and was wondering if there were a proper direction of installation. I will check to make sure they are seated properly and recheck the connection at the junction box.

FWIW - I've read that you can avoid replacing the sensors by simply soldering the contacts if they were broken (worn). Saves a lot of hassle and a few bucks too.

Brake pad (lining) warning light reset procedure from BMW TIS:

http://bimmerboard.com/members/q/ori...0BMW%20TIS.jpg

@kvc is correct,

Some people simply short the circuit to avoid the annoying brake light.

The "down" side is you have no warning brake pad light and have to check the pad the "manual way", which is visual inspection of brake pads every 6 months or so.
My other cars (Volvo, Honda) do not have brake wear sensor anyway, so the brake pad is checked manually at tire rotation etc.

The good news is: the E53 wheels' spokes are far apart, making visual inspection very easy, this will tell you the approx. thickness of the remaining pad.

Here is a video about splicing those wires to get rid of the check brake linings message.

https://youtu.be/AHx4IGw6o34