I'm already planning some work to my Mini, pre- spring inspection time, and figured I'd put some new brake pads in. I understand the Mini also has two brake wear sensors, but if the pads aren't worn to the point that it triggers the sensors is it still a good idea to replace them or can I just leave them be?
Can someone explain to me exactly how the brake wear sensors function on these cars?

 

The R56 and newer sensors are "smart" sensors so as long as they are not worn half way through you can get away without replacing them. Once they are worn half way through the computer knows how many miles you put on the pads to get half way. It then makes and est on how long it will take to wear through the rest of the pads giving you mileage count down you see in the tach.

We keep them in stock if you need em:
http://www.waymotorworks.com/brake-p...5-r56-r57.html

 

One of the cheapest parts on the car, IMO why get frugal with it? Just replaced my front brakes, rotors and sensor.

 

Any opinions on OEM v. aftermarket sensors?

 

I bought aftermarket, NAPA. My mechanic said the fittings were the same and it worked, but some of the other bits (clips?) to route the cable were different. He got it to work because that is what he does.

 

Wear sensors are around $25 from the dealer. I would get aftermarket ceramic pads from Akebono and eliminate the brake dust from the semi-metallic oem pads.

 

1. Because the sensors are plastic and have been exposed to heat etc, don't be surprised if they crumble as you try to remove them from the pad .. even if they are "good"


2. Folks who do their own maintenance often find the sensors to be a bit silly .. we monitor our pads and know when to change them. You can tie a good sensor back away from the pads, or just clip the wires on a used sensor and tie the ends together which will tell the computer "all is well" and you just monitor your wear ... EASY

 

Yep, I did think about doing this

 

The sensor is held into the brake pad recess by a stainless steel clip. If you try to remove an un-triggered sensor, this clip will often 'ping' off somewhere you can't find it, so I use a new sensor each time.

 

Agree, except somewhere down the line people sell or trade in cars and forget about these kinds of short cuts. Then the next guy/gal who doesn't know squat about maintenance or brake jobs gets a potential life threatening situation. Don't ask how I know about people slamming into the back of cars that my family has been in.