Make sure the pads are properly bedded in. Instructions here:

Instructions for bedding in your brakes

The critical step is not to come to a full stop with the brakes applied and sit there, once you get them good and hot.

I think you will find that the bedding process brings the pads to the same initial bite and pedal feel as the stock pads, it did for me.

My pad life was greatly extended with the Axxis/PBR pads, I would estimate double compared to OE.

Good luck.

Jeff

Quick question about the install process: Can a regular Joe do a rotor and pad change with limited tools and small garage space? Reason I am asking is due to my location in Nowhere, Montana with no mechanics in 50 mile radius. Spokane BMW picked up my X5 on Monday(free 398 mile tow) due to a transmission gasket leak and I got the call today that I need rear rotors and the whole enchilada which will cost $650 (possibly not including labor). I knew that once they have the car, additional costs will be found... but that is just way to much $$$.

A regular joe mechanic who has done brake jobs previously will have no problem with the X5 brakes.

A regular joe citizen who has never done a brake job can do it with regular (metric) hand tools, a jack and axle stands, etc, following the DIY guides on this site. If it is the first time, it is always a good idea to do it together with someone who has done similar work previously.

JCL,

Appreciate the response. I think I will go for the rear brake kit from ECS(Brembo+Ceramix) and have a mechanic do it for me :).

Bavarian has a sale on the front/back kit. Are they good enough for simple daily driving? The Service guy at the BMW dealership told me to stay away from non-OEM parts. $447 shipped.

http://www.bavauto.com/assets/imglib500/rbk.jpg

Order a kit from ECS. Or go OEM.

Thanks Naz,

Reached out to ECS earlier :)