In the engine compartment above the master brake cylinder is a brake fluid expansion tank that provides brake fluid to the entire brake system.
The hydraulic booster accumulates part of the vacuum produced in the engine intake system. Then, as needed, the force on the brake pedal is increased through the booster valve.
The front and rear disc brakes have so-called floating calipers. In a floating caliper, only one piston is required to press both brake pads against the disc.
The handbrake through the cable acts on the rear wheels. On models with disc brakes of the rear wheels, brake drums are additionally installed in the brake discs to operate the handbrake. This is necessary as disc brakes are not suitable as a parking brake.
When cleaning the brake system, brake dust is released. This dust is hazardous to health. Therefore, care should be taken not to inhale it.
The manufacturer produces various types of pads for various car models. Therefore, it is recommended to install only brake pads recommended by BMW.
When buying brake pads, it is recommended to purchase brake pad wear sensors at the same time, since the sensors installed on the car can also be worn out.
Work with the brake system requires accuracy and strict adherence to the instructions for their implementation. In the absence of experience in carrying out such work, it is better to carry them out at a service station.
Note: When driving on very wet roads, apply the brakes from time to time to free the rims from deposits. Although water is thrown away from the brake discs under the action of centrifugal force during movement, a thin film of silicones, rubber dust, grease and dirt is partially left on them, which reduces the braking effect.
When parking the car after driving in the rain, especially in winter with special effects on the road, it is advisable to stop the car by lightly pressing the brake pedal. Thanks to this, the brake discs are dried and will not corrode intensively.
After installing new brake pads, they need to be allowed to run in. During the first 200 nm, sudden braking to a complete stop should be avoided.
Corroded brake discs produce shaking and noise that persists even after repeated braking. In this case, the brake discs must be replaced.
Burnt dirt and clogged rain grooves in the brake pads cause scratches on the brake discs. This reduces the braking effect.
Attention: If during cornering there is a difference in the brake pedal travel, it is necessary to check the lateral runout of the discs on the outer diameter or replace the discs.