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 Convertible (E46) 318 Ci, BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 323 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 View more

The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.

How to change front brake pads on BMW 3 (E46) [TUTORIAL AUTODOC]

video
Tools
Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. 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 E46 convertible. 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 E46 convertible. Use the following procedure:
  1. Step 1
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 2000 - free PDF and video manuals
    Open the bonnet. Unscrew the brake fluid reservoir cap.
  2. Step 2
    How to replace BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 330 Ci 2001 Brake Pads - step-by-step manuals and video guides
    Secure the wheels with chocks.
  3. Step 3
    BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320Ci 2.2 2002 Brake Pads replacement: free workshop manuals
    Loosen the wheel mounting bolts. Use wheel impact socket #17.
  4. Step 4
    Changing Brake Pads on BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 318Ci 2.0 2003 by yourself
    Raise the front of the car and secure on supports.
  5. Step 5
    How to remove BMW 3 SERIES 323Ci 2.5 2004 Brake Pads - online easy-to-follow instructions
    Unscrew the wheel bolts.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. AUTODOC recommends:
    To avoid injury, hold up the wheel when unscrewing the bolts.
  6. Step 6
    How to replace Brake Pads on BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 2005: download PDF manuals and video instructions
    Remove the wheel.
  7. Step 7
    How hard is it to do yourself: Brake Pads replacement on BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 320Cd 2.0 2006 - download illustrated guide
    Spread the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
  8. Step 8
    Need to know how to renew Brake Pads on BMW 3 SERIES 2007? This free workshop manual will help you to do it yourself
    Remove the dust boot caps of the brake caliper guide pins. Use a crowbar.
  9. Step 9
    Changing of Brake Pads on BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 2000 won't be an issue if you follow this illustrated step-by-step guide
    Unscrew the brake caliper fastening. Use HEX No.H7. Use a ratchet wrench.
  10. Step 10
    BMW 3 SERIES 330Cd 3.0 Brake Pads replacement: online guides and video tutorials
    Detach the brake caliper retaining spring. Use a crowbar.
  11. Step 11
    Replacing Brake Pads on BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 2002 330 Ci by yourself
    Remove the brake caliper.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. Tip from AUTODOC:
    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.
  12. Step 12
    3 Convertible (E46) 323Ci 2.5 2003 Brake Pads DIY replacement workshop manual
    Remove the brake pads. Use a crowbar.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Measure the brake disc thickness. Upon reaching the wear limit the part must be replaced.
  13. Step 13
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 2004 - tips and tricks
    Clean the brake caliper bracket from dirt and dust. Use a wire brush. Use a brake cleaner.
    AUTODOC recommends:
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  14. Step 14
    Step-by-step recommendations for DIY replacement BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 2005 323Ci 2.5 Brake Pads
    Treat the back side of the new brake pads. Use anti-squeal paste.
  15. Step 15
    DIY replacement of Brake Pads on BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 325 Ci 2006 is not an issue anymore with our step-by-step tutorial
    Treat the brake caliper piston. Use a brake cleaner.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. Tip:
    After applying the spray, wait a few minutes.
  16. Step 16
    How to change Brake Pads on BMW 3 Convertible (E46) 2000 - free PDF and video manuals
    Press in the brake caliper piston. Use brake caliper wind back tool.
    Replacement: brake pads – BMW E46 convertible. Professionals recommend:
    Make sure the disc surface is clean before installing the pads.
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DIY BMW 3 Convertible (E46) Brake Pads replacement - online guide
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