Brake light came on!

[Wonderboy]

My brake light came on and i've heard you have to change pads and rotors. Not just the pads. Is this True? And if so what make the 1998 e36 M3's so unique that that has to be done.
I had a 78 300cd benz, and though i realize the m3 is in a whole different class, i never changed the rotors on that benz because the rotors still had plenty of life in them.
Just trying to get to the bottum of this.

[Teh Prof]

You don't absolutely have to change the rotors, but it's not a bad idea. BMW rotors are softer than most, and the new pads will immediately adopt the worn characteristics of the old rotor, i.e. grooves etc.

[Wonderboy]

Thanks that is good to know. Is it a weekend job or can it be done after work?

[walshja]

changing the brakes takes about 1.5 hours, and I would change the rotors, you can get replacements for about $40 each, althought that price was for non-M3 rotors.

i just changed my brakes and it is the easiest DIY job you can do to save hundreds of $$$

[tomctx]

Originally Posted by Wonderboy

Thanks that is good to know. Is it a weekend job or can it be done after work?

Just take a look at the rotors and see what shape they are in. Deeply grooved? Probably need replacing.

[Wonderboy]

Originally Posted by tomctx

Just take a look at the rotors and see what shape they are in. Deeply grooved? Probably need replacing.

I can feel a lip on them but honestly it doesn't feel bad at all!

[tomctx]

Originally Posted by Wonderboy

I can feel a lip on them but honestly it doesn't feel bad at all!

Then I wouldn't worry about it. Unless they are deeply grooved , probably allright.

[Wonderboy]

Thanks much...