
TRW · Part number GDB1840 · NZ$253.00 incl. GST
Your BMW 5 Series or X3's brake pads are what give you the stopping power needed to avoid a smash-up.
NZ$253.00 including GST. Part number GDB1840.
Brake Pad Replacement Guide — Featuring TRW
> Brake pads are mission-critical on your BMW 5 Series or X3. They clamp down on the rotors to bring you to a halt. Over time, that friction eats away at the pad material, meaning longer stopping distances and potential rotor damage.
Spotting the Warning Signs - Why You're Here
• Brakes sound like a flock of seagulls or gravel trucks when you hit the pedal.
• The car takes its sweet time stopping; feels like you're driving through treacle.
• That pesky brake pad warning light's glaring at you from the dash.
• Pads look thinner than a cafe lunch or have chunks missing.
• One pad's worn way more than the other – could be a sticky caliper.
Will it pass WOF?
Dodgy brakes are a surefire way to fail a WOF here in NZ. Your pads need enough meat on them to pull you up safely. Check the official Land Transport NZ guidelines for the nitty-gritty.
DIY or Workshop?
Difficulty: 6/10
Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
Tools Required: Jack and stands, lug wrench, socket set, wrench set, brake caliper tool, brake cleaner, torque wrench.
🛠️ Bob's "Get It Done Right" Companion Checklist
Before you get cracking, mate, safety first! Grab some safety glasses to keep that brake dust out of your eyes. Trust me, you don't want that. And a good set of nitrile gloves will save your hands from looking like you've been wrestling a mechanic. While you're at it, a can of Brake Cleaner is gold for blasting away all that nasty carbon dust. Makes the job cleaner, and the new pads will thank you. And don't forget a smear of anti-seize caliper grease on the contact points, too.
Expert Recommendation
Swapping out those brake pads is a no-brainer for keeping your BMW safe and sound. Worn pads mean you'll be needing half the Waikato to stop. Bob at CARFIX is always keen to help you pinpoint exactly what you need for your BMW. Pop over to Bob's Shop for a yarn!
Fitment Notes
Double-check you've got the right pads for your specific BMW model and year; there are variations. Always do both sides of the axle at once to keep things even-stevens. Some models might need the electronic parking brake reset after you're done.
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🛠️ Bob's Pro Tip: Do the Job Right!
> If you're swapping out these parts on your vehicle, don't skimp on fresh rotors. Check out our compatible TRW Disc Brake Rotors (Part No. DF6299S) to ensure a perfect bed-in and get the job done properly first time!
🧰 What Else You'll Need:
• Safety First: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always secure it on heavy-duty safety jack stands.
• Brake Dust Protection: Brakes get incredibly dirty. Keep a pack of Nitrile Gloves handy to protect your hands from stubborn brake dust.
• Clean and Prep: Use a high-quality Brake Cleaner spray to blast away stubborn dust, oil, and road grime from the caliper assembly and new rotors before reassembly.
• Lubrication: Apply a thin smear of high-temperature caliper grease to the pad backing plates and slide pins (keep it off the pad friction material!) to prevent squeals and ensure smooth caliper operation.