water, as brake fluid will remove
paint.
Always use new brake fluid from
a fresh, unopened container.
Brake fluid will absorb moisture
from the air. This can lead to
corrosion problems in the braking
system, and will also lower the
brake fluid's boiling point.
Dispose of brake fluid properly.
Do not reuse self-locking nuts,
bolts or fasteners. They are
designed to be used only once
and may fail if reused. Always
replace them with new
self-locking fasteners.
Table b. Brake system troubleshooting
Symptom
Probable cause
Repairs
Brake squeal
Incorrectly installed
brake pads or
parking brake shoes,
or brake parts.
Check component installation. Check/replace
anti-rattle springs.
Brake pad carriers
dirty or corroded
Remove brake pads and clean calipers.
Brake pads
heat-glazed or
oil-soaked
Replace brake pads. Clean rotors. Replace
leaking calipers as required.
Wheel bearings worn
(noise most
pronounced when
turning)
Replace worn bearings. See
310 Front
Suspension
or
330 Rear Suspension
.
Pedal goes to floor
when braking
Brake fluid loss due
to system leaks
Check fluid level and inspect for signs of
leakage.
Master cylinder or
electronic control
system faulty
Replace master cylinder. Diagnose electronic
control system using factory or compatible
diagnostic tool.
Brakes
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Summary of Contents for 1999-2005 M3
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