When to replace the Brake Pads on your BMW 3 SERIES
Recommended replacement interval for the part category Brake pad set : 30000 km
Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 323 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 320/6, BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 318 i, BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 318, BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 316, BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 316, BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 315 View more

The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.

This video shows the replacement procedure of a similar car part on another vehicle

Tools
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 3 (E21). Tools you might need:
Wire brush
Brake cleaner
Copper grease
Anti-squeal paste
HEX bit No.H7.
Wheel impact socket #17
Ratchet wrench
Torque wrench
Brake caliper wind back tool
Crow bar
Wheel chock
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 3 (E21). AUTODOC experts recommend:
  • Perform the replacement of brake pads in complete set for each axis. This provides effective braking.
  • The replacement procedure is identical for all brake pads on the same axle.
  • All work should be done with the engine stopped.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 3 (E21). Use the following procedure:
  1. Step 1
    Open the bonnet. Unscrew the brake fluid reservoir cap.
    Step 2
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW E21 1975 - free PDF and video manuals
    Secure the wheels with chocks.
  2. Step 3
    How to replace BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 323 i 1976 Brake Pads - step-by-step manuals and video guides
    Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
  3. Step 4
    Raise the front of the car and secure on supports.
    Step 5
    BMW E21 320/6 1977 Brake Pads replacement: free workshop manuals
    Unscrew the wheel bolts.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 3 (E21). AUTODOC recommends:
    To avoid injury, hold up the wheel when unscrewing the bolts.
  4. Step 6
    Changing Brake Pads on BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 318i 1.8 1978 by yourself
    Remove the wheel.
  5. Step 7
    How to remove BMW 3 SERIES 316 1.6 1979 Brake Pads - online easy-to-follow instructions
    Spread the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
  6. Step 8
    How to replace Brake Pads on BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 1980: download PDF manuals and video instructions
    Remove the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins. Use a crowbar.
  7. Step 9
    How hard is it to do yourself: Brake Pads replacement on BMW E21 318 1.8 1981 - download illustrated guide
    Unscrew the brake caliper fastening. Use HEX No.H7. Use a ratchet wrench.
  8. Step 10
    Need to know how to renew Brake Pads on BMW 3 SERIES 1982? This free workshop manual will help you to do it yourself
    Detach the brake caliper retaining spring. Use a crowbar.
  9. Step 11
    Changing of Brake Pads on BMW E21 1983 won't be an issue if you follow this illustrated step-by-step guide
    Remove the brake caliper.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Tie the caliper to the suspension or to the body with a wire without disconnecting from the brake hose to prevent depressurization of the brake system.Make sure that the brake caliper is not hanging on the brake hose.Don't press the brake pedal after the brake caliper has been removed. As a result, the piston can fall out from the brake cylinder, and brake fluid leakage and depressurization of the system may occur.
  10. Step 12
    BMW 3 SERIES 320i 2.0 Brake Pads replacement: online guides and video tutorials
    Remove the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Measure the brake disc thickness. Upon reaching the wear limit the part must be replaced.
  11. Step 13
    Replacing Brake Pads on BMW E21 1975 323 i by yourself
    Clean the brake caliper bracket from dirt and dust. Use a wire brush. Use a brake cleaner.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 3 (E21). After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  12. Step 14
    3 Saloon (E21) 316 1.6 1976 Brake Pads DIY replacement workshop manual
    Treat the back side of the new brake pads. Use anti-squeal paste.
  13. Step 15
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW 3 Saloon (E21) 1977 - tips and tricks
    Treat the brake caliper piston. Use a brake cleaner.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 3 (E21). Tip:
    After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  14. Step 16
    Step-by-step recommendations for DIY replacement BMW E21 1978 316 1.6 Brake Pads
    Press in the brake caliper piston. Use brake caliper wind back tool.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 3 (E21). Professionals recommend:
    Make sure the disc surface is clean before installing the pads.
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