Brake job: Dealer vs DIY?

Originally Posted by Nube1kenobi

The "leave for 30 and QA" is a just self-inspection term coined for a tech to re-inspect his work area. In the aerospace industry you always have a second or even a third set of eyes doing the inspection prior to release for flight, but in the auto industry or other job detail you do not have that. it is only to prevent the so-called "tunnel vision", where one cannot detect the mistake one made after a prolonged exposure to it. To leave or rest and return is the best way to counter this tendency. The away duration can change depending on the length or complexity.

So the last time I was working on my wifes brakes, I was wrapping up, about to tighten up the wheel bolts, when I happened to see the caliper bolts laying on the ground close by. Talk about an almost tragedy! Moral of the story: If you plan to do your own brake maintenance, do not rush, and always take a break and inspect your work before it's too late!

Originally Posted by JASONAARONDC

Your dealer is a liar. I havent replaced rotors in my last 2 brake changes. I measured the rotors and checked the surface and there was no need to replace them. I havent had any trouble out of them at all.

What is the thickness for the rotors??

I have to check mine on a 2008 535Xi with sport wheels and suspension.

Originally Posted by Kenpo Joe

I just did the rear brakes on my 545 in about 1 hour. Broke the sensor when I was removing it and I ordered a new one online. Now I have to do all 4 on my wife's car next. It's real easy of you have the right tools.


Back on mute.

What are "the right tools"??

I've done brakes on all my cars over the years, but not the 535Xi.

What tools do you need? (my Audi had this strange sized allen that I had to buy, it was a size between what comes in a set) Not a big deal, but it is a big deal when you are covered in brake dust and you don't have the tool.

Originally Posted by Jashley73

So the last time I was working on my wifes brakes, I was wrapping up, about to tighten up the wheel bolts, when I happened to see the caliper bolts laying on the ground close by. Talk about an almost tragedy! Moral of the story: If you plan to do your own brake maintenance, do not rush, and always take a break and inspect your work before it's too late!

Extra parts!! That always makes the job fun....many years ago I did that rebuilding a motorcycle engine once...oops.