Can the brake pads of the new BMW 320 be reset?
2 Answers
The brake pads of the new BMW 320 can be reset, but the sensor wire needs to be replaced first, and then the diagnostic computer should be used for resetting. Classification of brake pads: Asbestos brake pads (mostly obsolete), semi-metallic brake pads, low-metallic brake pads, NAO formula brake pads, ceramic brake pads, NAO ceramic brake pads. Ceramic brake pads vs. traditional brake pads: In traditional brake pads, metal is the main material that generates friction, providing strong braking force but with significant wear and a tendency to produce noise. After installing ceramic brake pads, abnormal squealing (i.e., scraping sounds) will not occur during normal driving. Since ceramic brake pads do not contain metal components, they avoid the metal squealing caused by the friction between traditional metal brake pads and their counterparts (i.e., brake pads and brake discs).
A few days ago, I helped my friend deal with the brake pad warning light on his new BMW 320, which was actually about resetting the brake pad indicator. The new BMW comes with a smart system—when the brake pads wear out, a warning light appears on the dashboard to remind you to replace them. The reset process is quite simple: first, turn the key to the second position without starting the engine, then navigate to the service option in the iDrive menu, find the brake system reset, and follow the prompts to confirm. This is suitable for DIY and doesn’t require professional tools, saving both time and money. However, be careful not to tamper with other settings, as incorrect adjustments might trigger fault codes. When driving, always pay attention to the braking condition—safety comes first. If the light stays on for too long without a reset, the computer might misjudge and continue issuing warnings. It’s best to regularly check the brake pad thickness; the normal lifespan is around 40,000 to 50,000 kilometers. BMW’s brake pads are of high quality but quite expensive—replacing a full set can cost several thousand yuan. Remember, resetting only turns off the light; if the pads are genuinely worn, you should replace them promptly.
