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Home/Cars/BMW/3 Series/E90/E91 (2005-2012)/my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) brake pedal goes to the floor why is that

my BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) brake pedal goes to the floor why is that

BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
597 words

Problem Statement

## Problem Statement The brake pedal on a BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (2005-2012) is going to the floor, indicating a potential brake fluid leak, air in the brake lines, or a failure in the braking system.

Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Safety Warnings:**
  • ⚠Always wear safety glasses when working with brake fluid as it can damage paint and is corrosive.
  • ⚠Ensure the vehicle is securely supported before working underneath it.

Symptoms

  • •Brake pedal feels soft and goes to the floor with little resistance
  • •Warning light illuminated on the dashboard (brake warning light)
  • •Reduced braking effectiveness or complete brake failure
  • •Fluid leakage visible under the vehicle near the wheels or brake components
  • •Increased stopping distance during braking

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir.
  2. 2Check for any visible brake fluid leaks around brake lines, calipers, and the master cylinder.
  3. 3Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any brake system-related error codes.
  4. 4Inspect brake lines for corrosion or damage.
  5. 5Perform a visual inspection of the brake pads and rotors for wear.
  6. 6Check for air in the brake lines by bleeding the brakes.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts, ensuring the vehicle is parked on a level surface.
  • Wear safety glasses and gloves.
  • Ensure the vehicle is securely supported using jack stands if lifting is necessary.

2. Inspect and Replace Damaged Components

  • Sub-step 1: Locate the master cylinder and check for leaks. If leaking, replace the master cylinder.
    • Tools Required: Wrench set, fluid catch pan.
  • Sub-step 2: Inspect all brake lines and hoses for signs of wear or leaks. Replace any damaged lines.
    • Tools Required: Line wrench, cutting tool, new brake line or hose.

3. Bleed the Brake System

  • Sub-step 1: Start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder (usually the right rear).
    • Attach a clear hose to the bleeder valve on the brake caliper.
  • Sub-step 2: Have an assistant press the brake pedal while you open the bleeder valve to release air and fluid. Close the valve before your assistant releases the pedal.
  • Sub-step 3: Repeat this process for all four wheels, moving from the farthest to the closest to the master cylinder (right rear, left rear, right front, left front).
  • Tools Required: Brake bleeder kit or clear tubing, wrench for bleeder valves.

4. Refill Brake Fluid

  • Sub-step 1: After bleeding, check the brake fluid reservoir and refill with the recommended brake fluid (DOT 4 for most BMWs).
  • Sub-step 2: Ensure the reservoir cap is securely closed to avoid moisture contamination.
  • Tools Required: Funnel, brake fluid.

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

  • Tools Required:** Line wrench, cutting tool, new brake line or hose.

Parts Required

  • Brake fluid (DOT 4)
  • Brake lines or hoses (if damaged)
  • Master cylinder (if leaking)

Additional Information

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

1 items

Parts

3 items

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