Brake Pad Sensor Question
 

Hey Gents,

I probably got this right but on the X5 I got a red "BRAKE" light on the dash today and when the key is off, it tells me to check the linings.

Is this triggered by the pad wear sensor and is that sensor a one-time piece? Just want to know exactly what's needed before I order up the parts to do the front and rear brake linings.

Bernie

Yes, it is the sensor and it is a one time sensor. You do need to inspect to figure out if it is the front or rear (one sensor per axle)

Cool thanks.
I am going to change all the pads anyway but I should only need to replace one sensor I suppose.

Cheers
Bernie

It might not be necessary to replace ALL the pads (front and rear), usually only one axle's brake pads need replacing while the other has lots of life yet.

Best to do a peek to be sure.

If you do want/need to replace them all, now might be a good time to do a brake fluid flush too.

Possibly, but not a good idea. They get old, and brittle, due to heat. They are cheap. Buy two.

There is one sensor per axle. If one got triggered, you technically have 1 good. But as JCL stated the get old and brittle. I would buy two just to be safe when you remove the "good" one.

Cool,

Thanks guys.

Just an FYI...you do know/see that there's another thread discussing the same topic going on at the same time, right? :)

Here's that thread and the resolution/answer to one of your original questions: "I got a red "BRAKE" light on the dash today and when the key is off, it tells me to check the linings. Is this triggered by the pad wear sensor and is that sensor a one-time piece?" : http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...e-linings.html