Greetings,

It's new pad and rotor time. I was told that I should also replace the brake sensors. Is this a must?

2003 MINI Cooper S

Thanks,

Ron

 

If the idiot light is on, yes. It's the only way to reset it that I know of. By the way, check the rear sensor first. You might be surprised to find that it is the one triggering the light. Should only have to replace the sensor that is worn through.

 

What type of rotors and pads are you looking to get?

-Martin

 

You will see when you get your new pads that the sensor snaps into the pad and as the pad wears down it rubs the sensor against the rotor. Eventually it wears off enough to snap the wire in the sensor and the light goes off. Then you replace them. If your light is not on, it is stupid to replace the sensor because your old one snaps into the new pad and only when the new pad wears down will it start wearing the sensor again.

 

Thank you geowit & 95viper, I appreciate the info. No the brake light is not on yet so the sensor should be OK.

MINIbrakes: I purchased Premium Centric Rotors and Axxis D+ pads from Zeckhausen Racing. Dave Zeckhausen was refered to me via these forums.
He took the time, via email, to answer all of my questions and I valued his input on comparing different low dust street pads. Should be delivered on Friday via UPS. His shipping price was very reasonable.

Thanks to all !!

Ron

 

In case you need assistance when it comes to changing your pads, check out my writeups.

Front pads
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=38346

Rear pads
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...345#post550345

 

Thanks OctaneGuy, great info !!

Ron

 

And take a run down to Harbor Freight in Palm Springs (about 20 miles) and pick up their disk brake tool. A very good $20 investment. I know a lot of people say a big C-clamp works just as well but it just ain't so, especially on the rears.