What is Brake Dust and Why Does My BMW Have It?
Your BMW was engineered for optimal safety and performance. That’s why these German luxury vehicles use super soft compounds to amplify your stopping power. These soft compounds enable the brake pads to effectively grab and stick to the rotors, resulting in optimal braking efficiency. This boosts your security while you’re behind the wheel.
The only downside to BMW’s unique braking technology is the increased amounts of brake dust caused by the sensitive compounds.
But exactly what is brake dust and should you be concerned about the amount on your BMW’s brakes? The European car care specialists at Motorwerks Auto Group in Humble, Texas are here to explain.
Here’s everything you need to know about your BMW’s brake dust.
What is Brake Dust?
Brake dust is made up of carbon fibers from your pads and small metal shavings from your rotors. When you press down on the brake pedal, a pair of calipers squeeze the pads against the rotors, creating the friction needed to stop your car. This leads to the erosion of your rotors and pads, leaving dust as a by-product.
What Causes Brake Dust on My BMW?
If your BMW has unusually large amounts of brake dust, it could be a sign of a more serious issue. These can include:
Worn-out brake pads: If your brake pads are worn out, you may notice unusual amounts of brake dust on your BMW. Other indicators of bad brake pads include loud grinding noises, a soft brake pedal, or an illuminated brake light on your dashboard.
Turning brake rotors: Your BMW’s rotors cannot be turned. This process involves placing the rotor on a brake lathe to correct its thickness. The rotors on your BMW are manufactured at the factory with a minimum thickness. Turning them can be dangerous.
Damaged anti-rattle clips: This brake system component holds your pads firmly within the caliper. If the clip is broken, it allows air to pass through the pads, leading to loud squeaking noises. If this happens, you need to have the clips replaced by a team of brake repair experts.
Keep Your BMW’s Brakes in Excellent Condition
If your BMW has large amounts of brake dust, contact the certified technicians at Motorwerks Auto Group in Humble, Texas now. We’ve been providing our customers with superior automotive repair services since 2007 and can quickly repair your brakes. To book your appointment, call us today at (346) 477-4103.