I recently was notified that my pads on my e46 are low and that I need to replace em. I was also told that on this car I have to not only change the pads but also the rotors. I was wondering if this is true.

Also, I wanted to get some cross drilled rotors (maybe brembos). Do you guys have any recommendations or ideas since this is my first time.

Plus how much should I be looking at pricewise for the OEM?

Thanks alot.

Yes, this is true. BMW rotors and pads are designed to need replacement at the same time, you are not supposed to machine BMW rotors. They're dirt cheap anyhow, no reason not too.

edit: http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/catalog/shopcart/BE46/POR_BE46_BRKpad_pg4.htm

OUCH. I guess the e46 M3 rotors are little more expensive than I'm used too:eek:

Then again, I cant find any aftermarket rotors anywhere (pelican, bimmerzone, and autohausaz all dont have them...) Brembos should be a lot cheaper than OE BMW ones.... the Brembos for my car were, at least.

You need to measure the rotor thickness and see if it is worn to the minimum, which is engraved on the rotor. If it is, then you should replace it, if not, no need, unless it is cracked. Between track and street, I go through several sets of pads before replacing rotors.

Yes, this is true. BMW rotors and pads are designed to need replacement at the same time, you are not supposed to machine BMW rotors. They're dirt cheap anyhow, no reason not too.

edit: http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/catalog/shopcart/BE46/POR_BE46_BRKpad_pg4.htm

OUCH. I guess the e46 M3 rotors are little more expensive than I'm used too:eek:

Then again, I cant find any aftermarket rotors anywhere (pelican, bimmerzone, and autohausaz all dont have them...) Brembos should be a lot cheaper than OE BMW ones.... the Brembos for my car were, at least.



Are your rotors grooved or warped? Is there a lip on the edge of the rotor that suggests a lot of material is missing from the rotor?

Are your rotors grooved or warped? Is there a lip on the edge of the rotor that suggests a lot of material is missing from the rotor?

Not at the moment, I did a brake overhaul when I bought the car - I had been told the same thing as the OP (on these boards) so I did the whole shebang.

although recommended, the rotors do not have to replaced unless below min. spec which is 26.4mm for an e46 m3.