Dublin, CA - Our Auto Mechanics Specialize in BMW X3 Brake Repair Services

The X3 is a compact luxury SUV, sittingin the middle of BMW's lineup between the smaller X1 and X2 and its largersiblings, the X5 and X6. The X3 derives its popularity by offering the sportycharacteristics of the German automaker's sedans with the space andpracticality of an SUV. It is easy to see why it is one of the best-sellingluxury SUVs on the market.

While the X3 is an excellent vehicle,keeping up with routine maintenance is important. Things like changing the oil,coolant, and transmission fluid regularly will help ensure that your X3provides years of trouble-free service. In addition to scheduled maintenance,wear items like brakes and tires will need to be replaced as they wearout. 

Signs Your X3 is Due for Brake Service

Several types of brake services willneed to be performed over the course of owning your X3. The most common isreplacing the brake pads, which on average, is typically done every30,000-50,000 miles. The brake rotors usually last longer, between50,000-70,000 miles, or every other pad change. However, the actual intervalwill vary depending on driving habits. 

Fortunately, there are several ways totell when a brake service is needed. Most BMWs, including the X3, have wearsensors. When the pad material reaches a certain level, a warning light will beilluminated in the instrument cluster. Alternatively, you can look between thewheel spokes and visually inspect the pads or anytime the wheels are removedfrom the vehicle.

Here are some signs that your X3 needs abrake service:

• Squeaking or squealing sounds when the brakes are applied – Usually due to worn brake pads. 
• The vehicle pulls to one side when braking – There are several possible causes, such as a seized caliper, a fault with the brake hydraulics, or worn suspension components.
• The vehicle shakes when the brakes are applied – The likely culprit is warped brake rotors. This can occur during hard braking or if the vehicle is not driven frequently. 
• The brake pedal feels soft or sinks to the floor: This can indicate the presence of air in the brake system. A pedal that sinks to the floor usually means there is a fluid leak. In this case, do not drive the vehicle, and have the brakes inspected immediately.

Additional Brake Services

In addition to replacing the pads androtors, the brake fluid should be changed every 2 years or 30,000 miles. Thisis done because the fluid absorbs moisture and can corrode the brake lines andcalipers from the inside. Likewise, when performing any brake service, it isrecommended to check the entire system for proper operation.

Do I Need to Replace All Four Pads andRotors at the Same Time?

Unless the front and rear pads androtors are worn, they only have to be replaced across the same axle. That isboth front or rear wheels. In addition, the brake pad sensor on the axle beingserviced needs to be changed, and they are fairly inexpensive, typicallycosting less than $30. 

The BMW and MINI Brake Specialists

Is your X3 not stopping the way it usedto? Perhaps you hear a squealing sound when applying the brakes? If so, now isthe time to schedule an appointment at Vt Motorworks. We are the East BayArea's premier BMW and MINI specialists, with over 35 years of combinedexperience in maintaining, servicing, and modifying the ultimate drivingmachines.

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