Need help with me 325i?? brakes..trouble.

[noname12]

I have a 89 325i and every time i brake, it seems like it starts to lock up and makes a weird noise. Sometimes it doesn't even brake i got to kind of force it. Anyone know like whats causing this because I want to fix this asap.

[davem]

*sigh* have you at least inspected your rotors and pads? like they could be totally fucking worn out...

[TurboJake]

Instead of asking us with a vague "it seems like it starts to lock up and makes a weird noise"...

Get in there, and look... Takes a whopping 20 minutes to pop off all your wheels and inspect.

[///digitalme]

*sigh* have you at least inspected your rotors and pads? like they could be totally fucking worn out...

check your abs unit!
or abs sensors...

[noname12]

i just changed both my brake pads and both rotors like two weeks ago.. so they can't be the problem. i looked and there are no scratches or anything. everything looks good.

[Sagaris]

Sounds like an ABS unit problem. Is your "Anti Lock" light on?

[noname12]

It goes like on and off. I noticed that was happing, how would i fix that?

[Sagaris]

I am not an expert with the ABS system, but I would replace items in this order :

-ABS Relay (under dash) get a few used ones for cheap, or buy a new known good one for $40-ish on pelican parts
-ABS control unit (under dash) you should be able to find one used for $25 or so
-Wheel speed sensors ( you can check the existing ones to see if they have a certain resistance which is found in the Bently repair manual)
-ABS hydraulic unit (near the airbox)
-Check wiring

The relays are somewhat known for failing which is why I put it first.

[netcsk]

If you just replaced the pads and rotors, did this start after the replacement or prior to?
If after, then you know where to look.

[Sagaris]

Not necessarily though. I have replaced brakes many times on many cars (30+) with zero issues. I went through and changed brake lines, pads, rotors, rebuilt the calipers on my e30 last year and have an ABS light now. I have tested the wheel speed sensors and they all ohm out to the proper spec and I will occasionally get a hard pedal with the ABS kicking in at random. Something buggered up the ABS system. I am thinking it is most likely a fluid issue with the pump itself, but will be replacing the rest of the items before hand since they are less expensive and easier to change.