2006 BMW X5 Owner's Manual - Page 140

140nSafe braking Disk brakes When the vehicle is driven only occasionally, during extended periods when the vehicle is not used at all, and in operating conditions where brake applications are less frequent, there is an increased tendency for corrosion to form on rotors, while contaminants accumulate on the brake pads. This occurs because the minimal pressure that the pads must exert to clean the rotors during brake applications is not reached. If the brake rotors are corroded, they will tend to respond to braking with a pulsating effect that even extended application will fail to cure. When driving in wet conditions and in heavy rain, it is advisable to apply light pressure to the brake pedal from time to time. Monitor traffic conditions to ensure that this maneuver does not endanger other road users. The heat generated in this process helps dry the pads and rotors to ensure that the braking force is then immediately available when required. Extended or steep mountain descents should be driven in the gear in which only minimal periodic brake application is required. This avoids excessive strain on the brakes and possible impairment of braking action. Do not drive with the clutch pedal depressed, at idle or with the engine switched off, as otherwise there will be no engine braking effect or power assistance for braking and steering. BMW recommends having brake inspections performed at a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center only. If you do not, parts of the 4-wheel drive system could be damaged. No floor mats, carpets or other objects may lie in the area of pedal travel, as otherwise pedal operation may be impaired.< Emergency stops You brake most effectively when you apply maximum pedal pressure in situations requiring it: emergency stops. Since the vehicle maintains steering responsiveness, you can nevertheless avoid possible obstacles with a minimum of steering effort. Pulsation at the brake pedal combined with sounds from the hydraulic circuits indicates to the driver that ABS is in its active mode. Brake fluid level If the brake fluid level is too low and brake pedal travel has become longer, there may be a malfunction in one of the two brake system's hydraulic circuits. Proceed to the nearest BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center. In so doing, increased pressure on the brake pedal may be required, and slight pulling to the side and longer braking distances may result. Please remember to adapt your driving style accordingly.< Brake pads For your own safety: use only brake pads that BMW has approved for your particular vehicle model. BMW cannot evaluate nonapproved brake pads to determine if they are suited for use, and therefore cannot ensure the operating safety of the vehicle if they are installed.< Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 159 867 - © 07/05 BMW AG