When to replace the Brake Pads on your BMW 5 SERIES
Recommended replacement interval for the part category Brake pad set : 30000 km
Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW 5 Saloon (E28) 535 i 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

All the parts you need to replace – Brake Pads for 5 Saloon (E28) and other BMW models
Tools
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 5 (E28). Tools you might need:
Wire brush
Nylon cleaning brush
Brake cleaner
Anti-squeal paste
Copper grease
Torque wrench
HEX bit No.H7
Wheel impact socket #17
Ratchet wrench
Round-nose pliers
Flat screwdriver
Brake caliper wind back tool
Crow bar
Wheel chock
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 5 (E28). Tip from AUTODOC experts:
  • 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.
  • Please note: all work on the car – BMW 5 (E28) – should be done with the engine switched off.
Carry out replacement in the following order:
  1. Step 1
    Open the hood. Unscrew the brake fluid reservoir cap.
    Step 2
    Secure the wheels with chocks.
    Step 3
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW E28 1980 - free PDF and video manuals
    Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
  2. Step 4
    Raise the rear of the car and secure on supports.
    Step 5
    How to replace BMW 5 Saloon (E28) 528i 2.8 1981 Brake Pads - step-by-step manuals and video guides
    Unscrew the wheel bolts.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Warning! To avoid injury, hold the wheel while unscrewing the fastening bolts. BMW 5 (E28)
  3. Step 6
    BMW E28 520i 2.0 1982 Brake Pads replacement: free workshop manuals
    Remove the wheel.
  4. Step 7
    Changing Brake Pads on BMW 5 Saloon (E28) 518i 1.8 1983 by yourself
    Remove the brake pad wear sensor from the brake pad. Use round-nose pliers.
  5. Step 8
    How to remove BMW 5 SERIES 535 i 1984 Brake Pads - online easy-to-follow instructions
    Remove the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins. Use a crowbar.
  6. Step 9
    How to replace Brake Pads on BMW 5 Saloon (E28) 1985: download PDF manuals and video instructions
    Unscrew the brake caliper fastening. Use HEX No.H7. Use a ratchet wrench.
  7. Step 10
    How hard is it to do yourself: Brake Pads replacement on BMW E28 525 i 1986 - download illustrated guide
    Detach the brake caliper retaining spring. Use a crowbar. Use a flat screwdriver.
  8. Step 11
    Need to know how to renew Brake Pads on BMW 5 SERIES 1987? This free workshop manual will help you to do it yourself
    Spread the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
  9. Step 12
    Changing of Brake Pads on BMW E28 1980 won't be an issue if you follow this illustrated step-by-step guide
    Remove the brake caliper.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 5 (E28). Tip from AUTODOC experts:
    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.Check the brake caliper bracket, brake caliper guide pins and boots. Clean them. Replace, if necessary.
  10. Step 13
    BMW 5 SERIES 525 e Brake Pads replacement: online guides and video tutorials
    Remove the brake pads.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 5 (E28). Professionals recommend:
    Measure the brake disc thickness. Upon reaching the wear limit the part must be replaced.
  11. Step 14
    Replacing Brake Pads on BMW E28 1982 528i 2.8 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 5 (E28). After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  12. Step 15
    5 Saloon (E28) 535 i 1983 Brake Pads DIY replacement workshop manual
    Treat the brake caliper piston. Use a nylon cleaning brush. Use a brake cleaner.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 5 (E28). Tip from AUTODOC experts:
    After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  13. Step 16
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW 5 Saloon (E28) 1984 - tips and tricks
    Press in the brake caliper piston. Use brake caliper wind back tool.
  14. Step 17
    Step-by-step recommendations for DIY replacement BMW E28 1985 535 i Brake Pads
    Treat the brake pads in the area where their surface comes into contact with the brake caliper bracket. Use anti-squeal paste.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW 5 (E28). Tip:
    Make sure the disc surface is clean before installing the pads.
Was this manual helpful?
Please rate this manual on a scale from 1 to 5. If you have any questions, feel free to ask us.
Users voted – 0
Searching for the right tyres?

Find out which tyre and wheel sizes are compatible with the BMW 5 Saloon (E28) model.

Your profile is your personal assistant.

It can track car expenses, keep a car log and replacement schedule, and save favourite materials, notes and documents

Install the AUTODOC CLUB app!
Your personal car expenses manager, maintenance tips, reminders about upcoming appointments and service intervals, DIY repair instructions – all this on your phone.
BMW 5 Saloon (E28) Brake Pads replace by yourself - Scan QR-code and download AUTODOC CLUB app
Scan

To download the app:

  • - scan the QR code
  • - download from App Store
  • - download from Google Play
Autodoc CLUB App icon
DIY BMW 5 Saloon (E28) Brake Pads replacement - online guide
Tips & tricks for your BMW 5 Saloon (E28)
View more
  • How to change Brake pad set on BMW 5 Saloon (E28) 524td 2.4 - replacement tricks
    TOP 4 car cleaning products | AUTODOC tips
  • Changing Disc pads BMW E28 528i 2.8 - Replacement Tips
    What to do if the belt squeals | AUTODOC tips
  • Maintenance Hacks - BMW 5 Saloon (E28) 520i 2.0 Brake pad kit replacement guide
    Understanding Airbag Light Warnings | Essential Tips for Car Safety
  • Replace Disc brake pads on BMW E28 - free video tips
    Checking the starter without removing it | AUTODOC tips