320D Compact 2003

[RexRich]

Hi . Just ordered some Ate front pads. I notice online all makes of pads offered state "no wear sensor" . My light has come on so I guess mine must have sensors ? . I have Copperslip for pad backs . Anything else I might need apart from obvious 7mm hex ? .

[helix402]

You need a front pad wear sensor. Try Ceratec instead of Copperslip. Looks better, works better.

[RexRich]

Thank you

[RexRich]

Do I need to order one sensor, or one for each side(front) ?

[helix402]

Just one.

[RexRich]

Thanks

[Locknut]

RexRich said:

Do I need to order one sensor, or one for each side(front) ?

There are only two brake pad sensors on the whole car, one on front left and one on the rear right. If you search Google you will find several threads on re-setting the sensors, they seem to give a lot of bother when the re-setting is done from the dash. People with diagnostic equipment seem to have no problem when it is done from a lap-top.

I will be changing my pads soon and I may just cut off the sensors completely. I think that two sensors for eight pads is of little use and might even be misleading if the pads are not evenly worn. Besides, I have been driving since about 1970 and always found that a simple visual inspection was enought to keep me out of trouble.

EDIT: I just noticed that your car is a 2003 model, My post is based on experience of E90 and F30 models so I hope it is relevant.

Edited by Locknut on Thursday 8th March 15:03

[helix402]

E46 pad wear sensors are reset by just leaving the ignition on when the new sensor has been fitted.