In the engine compartment, above the master cylinder, there is a brake fluid expansion tank that supplies brake fluid to the entire brake system.
The hydraulic booster accumulates part of the vacuum produced in the engine intake system (in diesel engines, the vacuum is created by a vacuum pump). Then, as required, the force applied to the brake pedal is increased through the booster valves.
All disc brakes have what are called floating caliper calipers. In a floating caliper, only one piston is required to press both brake pads against the disc.
The handbrake acts on the rear wheels via a cable. Since disc brakes are not suitable for use as a parking brake, brake drums are additionally installed in the brake discs on the rear wheels to operate the handbrake. Drum brakes operate exclusively as a parking brake, controlled by the handbrake lever.
When cleaning the brake system, brake dust is released. This dust can cause health problems. Therefore, when cleaning the brake system, take measures to avoid inhaling brake dust.
Brake pads are components of the General Operating Approval and are produced by the manufacturer in different types for different vehicle models. It is therefore recommended to install only brake pads recommended by BMW or the Federal Motor Transport Authority. Brake pads have an Authority approval number.
It is recommended that when purchasing brake pads, you also purchase brake pad wear sensors, as the sensors installed on the vehicle may also be worn out.
Work with the brake system requires accuracy and precise adherence to the instructions for its implementation. If you do not have experience in carrying out such work, it is better to carry it out at a service station.
Used, old brake fluid should be taken to a special waste collection point and not simply poured out or thrown away with household waste.
Note: On very wet roads, brake occasionally while driving to release deposits from the discs. Although water is thrown away from the brake discs by centrifugal force while driving, a thin film of silicones, rubber dust, grease and dirt partially remains, reducing the braking effect.
When parking the car after driving in the rain, especially in winter with special impacts 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 work in. During the first 200 km, sharp braking until a complete stop should be avoided. On the other hand, the brake discs must work, since otherwise favorable conditions will be created for corrosion of the brake discs and contamination of the brake pads.
Corroded brake discs produce a shaking and noise effect that does not disappear even after repeated braking. In this case, the brake discs should be replaced.
Burnt dirt and clogged rain grooves on the brake pads cause scratches on the brake discs. This causes a reduction in braking effect.