Hello,

My MCS is at 55K and I thinking about brake maintenance.

I am planning to have work done with a local shop but I was hoping I can get some referrals. I'm based out San Mateo on the weekdays and San Jose on the weekend. I'm open to any shops in the peninsula. Has anybody had brake work done where they can recommend good quality fair priced service? This service would include changing my brake fluid too.

Additionally, I was wondering if I have to replace my rotors when changing the pads. I heard that with BMW systems that you have to replace the rotors when changing the pads. I am planning to add the EBC green pads.

Any information will greatly be appreciated.

Daniel
San Jose

 

I'm no mechanic but...I have done the front brakes myself several times. The rears are a little more tricky. You could do it yourself to safe some money. Sorry I don't have any recommendations for up there. As far as the rotors go, it is recommended that you at least have them turned when adding new pads. Although, if you don't, it won't kill you.

 

55K and you're on the same pads that came with the car? That's better than average...you must have a light braking foot.

Brakes are not that complicated, even on the MINI, so any *competent* shop should be able to replace them. I'd suggest buying 4 new rotors (either from a MINI dealer or get some PowerSlots or something) and asking them to put them on when they do the brake job. That's what I'm gonna do when my brake pads wear thin...still have about 4mm on them at 37,000 miles.

Anyway, at your rate of wear...you won't have to buy another set of rotors or pads until at least 110,000 miles.

Note: some non-OEM brake pads don't come with the sensor holes. You can still use them on the MINI but the shop will have to tie back the sensor and you will have to periodically check your own brakes for wear. Not a big deal...

Rock on,

-boognish

 

Thanks guys,

Since the Mini handles so well I hardly ever have to use the brakes.
I plan to do this by the end of the month so I am still open to suggestions.

Daniel

 

This is because when replacing the rear brake pads and/or rotors, you need a special tool to rotate the pistons within the rear calipers prior to re-assembly.

NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!! BMW/MINI Rotors cannot be resurfaced, they start thin for lighter rotational mass, for superior handling, and they typically are worn past minimum spec when the pads are worn below spec.

Also do some more research on the EBC Greenstuff, I have had several of my customers get rid of them shortly after they had them installed, IMHO they are garbage.