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BMW 5-Series Sedans

12737 messages,  Last post on Feb 16, 2013 at 11:05 PM

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What is this discussion about? BMW 5 Series, Sedan

Messages Page 601 of 1274

#5999 of 12737 Axxis Brake Pad Update by srfast

Mar 25, 2003 (7:31 pm)

I mentioned a few weeks back that I was replacing the stock/factory BMW brake pads with Axxis (formerly Repco) Deluxe Plus pads. BMW brake pads are notorious for producing excessive amounts of brake dust and the pads on my 2003 530i with SP are no exception. I've lived with brake dust before, but having to clean my wheels every weekend was a task I wanted to avoid. I've used Repco/Axxis Metal Master pads on my 1993 325i/SP with crossed drilled rotors with positive results and was hoping the Axxis Deluxe Plus pads would produce similar results on the 530i. BTW, the pads and rotors were replaced after 50K miles on them and they still had approx. 40% of useful life remaining on them!
 
After some research, the Deluxe Plus pads were selected because they suit my current driving style - aggressive, but not a "racer." I've acquired a purpose built race car for SCCA competiton so my street driving style has mellowed a bit. Besides excellent stopping properties, the Deluxe Plus pads are rated low dust and rotor friendly.
 
BMW Stock Pads:
I used these pads for the first 900 miles of ownership. Good stopping properties but EXCESSIVE dusting. The front wheels were coated with a moderate amount of dust each time the car was driven. The rear wheels were only "lightly" coated. Wheels were cleaned almost each weekend.
 
Axxis Deluxe Plus Pads:
500+ city and highway miles after properly bedding pads. Braking ability is equal to or better than BMW OEM pads. Front wheel dust: minimal. Approx. the same amount of dust coating rear wheels using OEM pads after 50 miles. Rear wheels: hardly noticeable. Note: the dust observations are after 500+ miles WITHOUT cleaning the wheels.
 
2nd Opinion:
I showed my car to a 2002 540i/6 owner and his comment: "I get more brake dust on my wheels driving to work (20 mile commute) than you have after 500 miles."
 
My opinion:
If you want to rid your BMW/E39 of brake dust, get a set of Axxis pads. The only question should be: Which pad is right for me ?
 
Axxis Pad Comparison Link:
http://www.zeckhausen.com/axxis_pads.htm
 
Dave Z. (Zeckhausen Racing) stocks Axxis pads.
 
Hope this helps....JL

#6000 of 12737 srfast by shipo

Mar 25, 2003 (8:00 pm)

Thanks for the update, I am going to be swapping my winter tires back to the stock Pilot-Primacys in a few weeks (something tells me that we are going to get dumped on one more time this winter), and that would be a good time to swap the pads. That said, I have heard in the past that the Axxis/Repco pads are inclined to squeal a bit. Are yours quiet so far?
 
Best Regards,
Shipo

#6001 of 12737 shipo: No squeals at all... by srfast

Mar 25, 2003 (8:20 pm)

The bedding process is the key. As long as you bed new pads properly, they will be as quiet as OEM.
 
Hope this helps...JL

#6002 of 12737 by irish44

Mar 26, 2003 (8:16 am)

I need some assistance on the reviews of a 530i versus the Lexus-GS-300. I'm looking at a used 530i-2002 with 20k. I need some pros & cons on a 530i vehicle and currently own a GS-300. Thanks

#6003 of 12737 irish44 by habitat1

Mar 26, 2003 (10:29 am)

One of my golfing buddies traded a GS400 for a 540iA sport. He took a big hit on the GS400 after only owning it for 18 months, but claims the performance - especially handling and steering - of the 540i were well worth it. He has been a happy camper ever since.
 
I think the Lexus GS is an attractive car with very good fit and finish. If you like a softer, luxury ride, it's a great alternative to Mercedes. As for driving dynamics, the 5-series is in a league of it's own, IMO.

#6004 of 12737 irish44: What options on 530i ? by srfast

Mar 26, 2003 (1:39 pm)

How is this car equiped ? This would help us provide appropriate input.
 
TIA....JL

#6005 of 12737 02 330 i or 01 530i: Which is better deal? Opinions please by bmwdoug

Mar 26, 2003 (3:06 pm)

I am in the market for a used BMW. I have the opportunity to purchase a 2002 330i Silver on Grey, Sport/Premium package, Xeons, 18 inch M wheels for $34,000. Or, I can purchase a 01 530i, 26000 miles, Sport/Premium, Xeons for $36000. Which do think is the better deal? Which will hold value longer? Thanks

#6006 of 12737 bmwdoug by kdshapiro

Mar 26, 2003 (3:21 pm)

If I were you I would ask myself, which car do I really need or want. I think it's less about price and more about your needs and determining which car fits you better. The 3 has more sport less luxury, the 5 has more luxury and slightly less sport. I'm sure neither will disappoint.

#6007 of 12737 Official 2004 5 series Photo by jstyle

Mar 26, 2003 (5:17 pm)

Here it is. Look at the window switches. Hard to tell if you sit much lower in the car. Also seems very 7ish to me, except for the manual...What do you think?
 
http://germancarfans.zeroforum.com/zerothread?id=3200

#6008 of 12737 by kdshapiro

Mar 26, 2003 (5:28 pm)

I like it. I'll bet when you put the pedal to the metal, it goes like a bat out of heck.

Messages Page 601 of 1274

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