Brake Job and Parts - 01' 325i

[CBE46]

Hello:
I am about to have my first brake job done since joining BMW ranks. Dealer cost for brake parts seems way out of line!!! I have received some quotes from aftermarket folks but I am concerned about quality. Can anyone recommend good supplier of brake parts at good price. I am not looking to upgrade, I have been happy with stock set-up and just looking to replicate.
Thanks,
Chris

[Jeron]

DIY is the best solution. Dealers and inde's both charge about the same price for parts and the same number of book hours. Also they will want to change your rotors with every job when a set of rotors will easily last through 2 sets of pads.

Prices
$70 Rotors, each
$100 Rotors, Lifetime replacement each
$40-100 Pads, axle set (you can get lifetime here also at autoparts stores.)

If your light is on you will need a new sensor.

Are you planning to buy the parts online and take them to a mechanic? Pelicans prices are good. Are you interested in discussing pads?

[CBE46]

Thanks for the reply!
I have been getting quotes for OEM stuff as follows...
Rotors: between $48-$58.00 each front and rears
Pads: $38-48.00 per set
Sensors: 12.00 each
I plan on having my independent machanic do job, who is familiar with BMW. Are Bolo and Zimmermann considered OEM?
Thanks!

[Jeron]

I replied a couple of hours ago but I guess it didn't go through.

I've used Zimmerman and they were just as good as stock. Don't get rotors with holes or groves.

I would not get just any pad. OEM pads like Jurid and Pagid have lots of dust but are quiet and work well. Hawk HPS or Ceramic will have much less dust and perform better than OEM and are usually silent.

You dont need sensors unless yours have worn through and set off the brake light.

[3-2-5-i]

Originally posted by Jeron
... Also they will want to change your rotors with every job when a set of rotors will easily last through 2 sets of pads....

What would you say is minimum width that you can have on Rotors before needing to replace them.

If I remember correctly, and for my '04 325i, BMW Specs suggest that they be replaced @ 19mm or less. Is that accurate?

At least that's what they were replacing them at when it was done under their maintenance warranty. (and it was @3 mm or less for the pads).

[Jeron]

It is stamped on the "horizontal" or "flat" portion of the hub of the rotor. You may have to clean it up a bit to see it.

I think the Front E46 330 sport min thickness is 1.04"=26.4mm which is the same as the E36M3. I think all 330's and 325 sports have the same front rotors but a 325 non-sport would be different.

19mm may be for the rear. For instance, the E36M3 min rear is .725" or 18.4mm.