How to change rear brake pads on BMW 7 (E38) – replacement guide
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Recommended replacement interval for the part category Brake pad set : 30000km
Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW 7 (E38) 730 i, iL,
BMW 7 (E38) 730 i, iL,
BMW 7 (E38) 740 i, iL,
BMW 7 (E38) 750 i, iL,
BMW 7 (E38) 740 i, iL,
BMW 7 (E38) 728 i, iL,
BMW 7 (E38) 735 i, iL,
BMW 7 (E38) 725 tds,
BMW 7 (E38) 730 d,
BMW 7 (E38) 740 d,
BMW 7 (E38) 730 d,
BMW 7 (E38) 735 i, iL
…
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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 7 (E38) and other BMW models
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 7 (E38). Tip from AUTODOC:
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 7 (E38) – should be done with the engine switched off.
Carry out replacement in the following order:
Step 1
Open the bonnet.
Step 2
Remove the protective cover.
Step 3
Remove the rubber strip.
Step 4
Unscrew the brake fluid reservoir cap.
Step 5
Secure the wheels with chocks.
Step 6
Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #19.
Step 7
Raise the rear of the car and secure on supports.
Step 8
Unscrew the wheel bolts.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 7 (E38). Tip:
To avoid injury, hold up the wheel when unscrewing the bolts.
Step 9
Remove the wheel.
Step 10
Spread the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
Step 11
Remove the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins. Use a crowbar.
Step 12
Unscrew the brake caliper fastening. Use HEX No.H7. Use a ratchet wrench.
Step 13
Detach the brake caliper retaining spring. Use a crowbar.
Step 14
Remove the brake caliper.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 7 (E38). AUTODOC experts recommend:
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.
Step 15
Remove the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 7 (E38). AUTODOC recommends:
Measure the brake disc thickness. Upon reaching the wear limit the part must be replaced.
Step 16
Remove the connector of the brake pad wear sensor. Use a crowbar.
Please note!
Some cars are not equipped with the brake pad wear sensor.
Step 17
Clean the brake caliper bracket from dirt and dust. Use a wire brush. Use a brake cleaner.
AUTODOC recommends:
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 7 (E38). After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
Step 18
Press in the brake caliper piston. Use brake caliper wind back tool.
Step 19
Treat the back side of the new brake pads. Use anti-squeal paste.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 7 (E38). Professionals recommend:
Make sure the disc surface is clean before installing the pads.
Step 20
Install new brake pads.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 7 (E38). Tip from AUTODOC:
Make sure the pads are installed with linings facing the disc.
Step 21
Connect the brake pad wear sensor plug.
Step 22
Install the brake caliper and fix it. Use HEX No.H7. Use a torque wrench. Tighten it to 30 Nm torque.
Step 23
Install the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins.
Step 24
Install the brake caliper retaining spring.
Step 25
Treat the surface where the brake disc contacts the wheel rim. Use copper grease.
Step 26
Install the wheel.
AUTODOC recommends:
Important! Hold the wheel while screwing in the fastening bolts. BMW 7 (E38)
Step 27
Screw in the wheel bolts. Use wheel impact socket #19.
Step 28
Lower the car and working in a cross order, tighten the wheel bolts. Use a torque wrench. Tighten it to 140 nm torque.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 7 (E38). Tip from AUTODOC experts:
Without starting the engine, press the brake pedal several times until you feel significant resistance.
Step 29
Remove the jacks and chocks.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 7 (E38). AUTODOC recommends:
Check the brake fluid level in the expansion tank and refill if necessary.
Step 30
Tighten the brake fluid reservoir cap.
Step 31
Install the protective cover.
Step 32
Install the rubber strip.
Step 33
Close the hood.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW 7 (E38). Professionals recommend:
Slow down smoothly for first 150-200 km after the brake pads replacement. Avoid unneccessary and sharp braking to a stop.
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