my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) is making a grinding noise when braking, what's wrong?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical issues during the repair.

2. Remove Wheel

• Tools Required: Lug wrench, jack, jack stands
• Loosen the lug nuts, raise the vehicle with a jack, and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to access the braking components.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Inspect the brake pads for wear; if they are less than 3mm thick, they need replacement.
• Remove the caliper mounting bolts using a socket set.
• Slide the caliper off the rotor and support it with a bungee cord to avoid stressing the brake line.
• Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
• Install new brake pads, ensuring they are correctly oriented according to the manufacturer's specifications.

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors (if necessary)

• Check the rotors for grooves or warping; if damaged, they should be replaced.
• To remove the rotor, unscrew the retaining screws (if applicable) and slide the rotor off the hub.
• Clean the hub surface with a wire brush before installing new rotors.
• Install the new rotor and secure it with retaining screws.

5. Reassemble Components

• Reattach the caliper over the new pads and rotor.
• Tighten the caliper mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque (typically around 25-30 Nm).
• Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

6. Lower Vehicle and Test

• Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque (typically around 100-120 Nm).
• Reconnect the battery.
• Test drive the vehicle to ensure the grinding noise is resolved.