BMW 2 Series Brake Warning Light & Pedal Problems

Hey there! I have some experience working on cars and had a similar issue with my 2015 BMW 3 Series. When my brake warning light came on, I initially thought it was just low fluid too, but it turned out my brake pads were completely worn out. The weird pedal feel was definitely concerning. Took it to my trusted mechanic who confirmed the brake pads needed replacing, along with resurfacing the rotors. The whole job cost me about 480 Euro, but it was worth every penny for the safety aspect. The X3 I had before this one had similar symptoms when the brakes were going bad too, seems to be a common wear pattern with these models. Before I can give more specific advice, could you share: How many miles/kilometers are on your car? When was your last brake service? Is there any squealing noise when braking? This would help me better understand if you're dealing with the same issue I had.

Thanks for the detailed response! My car has 23781 KM and had its last service about 4 months ago. Actually, I do hear a slight squealing noise when braking, especially in the morning. Good to know about your experience with the brake pads, that might explain what's going on with mine too. The pedal feel is quite similar to what you described. I'll definitely get it checked out by a mechanic soon rather than just topping up the fluid myself. Better safe than sorry when it comes to brakes!

Hey again! Yeah, those symptoms you're describing, especially that morning squealing, are exactly what I experienced with my BMW 3. Based on the mileage you mentioned and that squealing noise, I'm even more convinced now that it's the brake pads, just like what happened with mine. That morning squealing is actually a built-in wear indicator, it's a small metal tab that starts touching the rotor when the pads get too thin. Pretty clever system, really, though it can be a bit nerve-wracking when you first hear it! When I had mine fixed, the mechanic showed me the old pads, and they were worn right down to the metal. Looks like BMWs tend to go through their front pads around the 25000-30000 KM mark, so your timing fits that pattern perfectly. One quick tip from my experience, when you get it checked out, ask them to look at the brake fluid anyway. While my main issue was the pads, my mechanic noticed the fluid was a bit old and suggested a flush while they were at it. Saved me from potential problems down the road. Let us know what your mechanic finds, would be interesting to see if it's the same issue I had!

Thanks so much for all this great information! It's super helpful to know about that wear indicator, I had no idea that's what the squealing meant. You're probably right about my car following that same wear pattern around 25000 KM. I just called my mechanic and made an appointment for tomorrow morning. I'll definitely ask them to check the brake fluid too while they're at it, really appreciate that tip! It's actually quite reassuring to hear about your similar experience. I was worried it might be something more serious (and expensive), but this sounds pretty standard for these cars. I'll update the thread once I get the diagnosis, but I'm betting you're spot on about the brake pads. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and advice!