Brake Sensor
 

I suspect this has been addressed before but I did a search and nothing came up. I just put new front brakes on 08 X5 4.8 but since the pads had not gotten to the sensor I left the old one on. When I took it to the independent mechanic to get the brake light reset he said he couldn't do it because I hadn't replaced the sensor. Any thoughts? TIA

The E70 has a two stage sensor, unlike the E53 and older BMWs. The first trip wire is used to calibrate the life remaining calculation, and the second trip wire is used to signal that the pads are worn out and it is time to replace them. If you are through the first trip wire, you won't be able to reset it.

There are lots of threads when you search. Here is one:

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...x5-brakes.html

The sensors are not that much, even OEM. They are easy to replace, especially the front. So just switch it out and reset yourself.