why does my BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) shake when braking

BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

576 words

Problem Statement

The BMW 5 Series F10/F11 (2010-2017) is experiencing shaking or vibration when braking, which could indicate issues with the braking system, particularly related to the brake roto

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
•Allow brakes to cool before inspection or repair.

Symptoms

•Steering wheel shakes during braking
•Vehicle vibrates noticeably when applying brakes
•Uneven wear on brake pads
•Noise such as grinding or squeaking when braking
•Pulling to one side when braking

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake rotors for warping or uneven surface.
2
Check brake pad thickness and condition for wear.
3
Verify wheel alignment and balance.
4
Examine suspension components for wear or damage (e.g., control arms, bushings).
5
Scan for any error codes related to the braking system using an OBD-II scanner.
6
Test brake fluid level and condition.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Sub-steps:**
•Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
•Disconnect the battery to ensure safety.
•Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels slightly before jacking the vehicle up.

Parts Required

•Brake rotors (if warped or damaged)
•Brake pads (if worn)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake rotors for warping or uneven surface.
2
Check brake pad thickness and condition for wear.
3
Verify wheel alignment and balance.
4
Examine suspension components for wear or damage (e.g., control arms, bushings).
5
Scan for any error codes related to the braking system using an OBD-II scanner.
6
Test brake fluid level and condition.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack and jack stands, lug wrench, socket set, torque wrench, brake cleaner, OBD-II scanner.
Sub-steps:
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Disconnect the battery to ensure safety.
3. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels slightly before jacking the vehicle up.

2. Remove Wheels

Tools Required: Lug wrench.
Sub-steps:
1. Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
2. Fully remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels.

3. Inspect Brake Components

Sub-steps:
1. Visually inspect the brake rotors for warping or scoring. Use a dial indicator if necessary to measure rotor runout.
2. Check brake pads for uneven wear; replace if they are worn below the manufacturer's specifications.
3. Clean the brake components with brake cleaner to remove any debris or dust.

4. Replace Brake Rotors and Pads (if necessary)

Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench.
Sub-steps:
1. If rotors are warped or damaged, remove the caliper by unbolting it from the mounting bracket.
2. Remove the rotor by unscrewing any retaining screws and sliding it off the hub.
3. Install new rotors by aligning them on the hub and securing them.
4. Install new brake pads into the caliper bracket and reattach the caliper.
5. Torque caliper bolts to manufacturer specifications (typically around 25-35 Nm).

5. Reinstall Wheels and Lower Vehicle

Sub-steps:
1. Reattach the front wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
2. Lower the vehicle back to the ground.
3. Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 110-140 Nm).

6. Test Drive

Sub-steps:
1. Reconnect the battery.
2. Test drive the vehicle at low speeds to evaluate braking performance and check for vibrations.