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How to change rear brake pads on BMW E46 convertible – replacement guide
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Recommended replacement interval for the part category Brake pad set : 30000 km
Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 323 Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320 Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 325Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320 Cd, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 318Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320 Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 323 Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 318 Ci … View more
The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.
BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 323 Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320 Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 325Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320 Cd, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 318Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320 Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 323 Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 318 Ci … View more
The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.
How to change rear brake pads on BMW 3 (E46) [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]

All the parts you need to replace – Brake Pads for 3 Convertible (E46) and other BMW models
Brake pad set
Alternative products

Wire brush
WD-40 spray
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 E46 convertible. AUTODOC recommends:
- 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 E46 convertible. Take the following steps:
- Step 1Open the bonnet. Unscrew the brake fluid reservoir cap.
- Step 2Secure the wheels with chocks.
- Step 3Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
- Step 4Raise the rear of the car and secure on supports.
- Step 5Unscrew the wheel bolts.AUTODOC recommends:Important! Hold the wheel while unscrewing the fastening bolts. BMW E46 convertible
- Step 6Remove the wheel.
- Step 7Spread the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
- Step 8Remove the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins. Use a crowbar.
- Step 9Unscrew the brake caliper fastening. Use HEX No.H7. Use a ratchet wrench.
- Step 10Detach the brake caliper retaining spring. Use a crowbar.
- Step 11Remove the brake caliper.Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. Professionals 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 12Remove the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
- Step 13Disconnect the brake pads wear sensor. Use a crowbar.Please note!Some cars are not equipped with the brake pad wear sensor.
- Step 14Treat the brake caliper piston. Use a brake cleaner.AUTODOC recommends:Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
- Step 15Press in the brake caliper piston. Use brake caliper wind back tool.
- Step 16Treat the back side of the new brake pads. Use anti-squeal paste.AUTODOC recommends:Make sure the disc surface is clean before installing the pads.
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