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 : 30000km
Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 323 Ci,
BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320 Ci,
BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 325 Ci,
BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320 Cd,
BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 318 Ci,
BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320 Ci,
BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 323 Ci,
BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 318 Ci
…
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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
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 1
Open the bonnet. Unscrew the brake fluid reservoir cap.
Step 2
Secure the wheels with chocks.
Step 3
Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
Step 4
Raise the rear of the car and secure on supports.
Step 5
Unscrew the wheel bolts.
AUTODOC recommends:
Important! Hold the wheel while unscrewing the fastening bolts. BMW E46 convertible
Step 6
Remove the wheel.
Step 7
Spread the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
Step 8
Remove the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins. Use a crowbar.
Step 9
Unscrew the brake caliper fastening. Use HEX No.H7. Use a ratchet wrench.
Step 10
Detach the brake caliper retaining spring. Use a crowbar.
Step 11
Remove 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 12
Remove the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
Step 13
Disconnect the brake pads wear sensor. Use a crowbar.
Please note!
Some cars are not equipped with the brake pad wear sensor.
Step 14
Treat 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 15
Press in the brake caliper piston. Use brake caliper wind back tool.
Step 16
Treat 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.
Step 17
Install new brake pads.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. Tip from AUTODOC:
Make sure the pads are installed with linings facing the disc.
Step 18
Connect the brake pads wear sensor.
Step 19
Install the brake caliper and fix it. Use HEX No.H7. Use a torque wrench. Tighten it to 30 Nm torque.
Step 20
Install the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins.
Step 21
Install the brake caliper retaining spring.
Step 22
Clean the brake disk surface. Use a brake cleaner.
AUTODOC recommends:
Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
Step 23
Treat the surface where the brake disc contacts the wheel rim. Use copper grease.
Step 24
Install the wheel.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. Tip:
To avoid injury, hold up the wheel when screwing in the fastening bolts.
Step 25
Screw in the wheel bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
Step 26
Lower the car and working in a cross order, tighten the wheel bolts. Use a torque wrench. Tighten it to 120 Nm torque.
AUTODOC recommends:
BMW E46 convertible – Press the brake pedal several times with the engine shut down until you feel the resistance built up.
Step 27
Remove the jacks and chocks.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. Tip from AUTODOC experts:
Check the brake fluid level in the expansion tank and refill if necessary.
Step 28
Tighten the brake fluid reservoir cap. Close the hood.
Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. AUTODOC recommends:
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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