Brake system (BMW 3 Series E46)

Brake fluid level

The hydraulic system warning light is on: the brake fluid level in the reservoir has dropped below the normal level (refer to Section Checking fluid levels).

If the brake fluid level in the reservoir has dropped below normal and the pedal travel has increased significantly, then one of the two circuits of the hydraulic brake system may be faulty.

Please refer to the Chapter materials Brake system and go to the nearest BMW service station. When driving, you may need to apply more force to the brake pedal, and the braking distance itself may increase. Take this into account when choosing your driving style.

Brake pads

The brake pad warning light is on: the pads are almost worn out. Refer to the materials in Chapter Brake system and at the first opportunity go to the service station to replace them.



Only brake pads approved by BMW should be used for replacement.

Power steering

If the steering is difficult to operate, check the oil level as indicated in Section Checking fluid levels.

If you experience difficulty when trying to quickly turn the steering wheel, refer to Section Troubleshooting and proceed to the BMW service station for inspection.

When the power steering fails, the effort required to turn the steering wheel increases.