BMW E60 brake judder and steering wheel shake when braking
Why does the E60 shake when braking?
The most common cause is rusted guide surfaces on the brake caliper and sticking pads. Other causes are a warped or glazed brake disc, worn control arm and reaction rod bushings, and a loose track rod end.
The shaking continued after replacing the discs and pads – why?
Often the new parts have just been fitted without cleaning the caliper. Always check the movement of the caliper pistons and slide pins, and the cleanliness and sliding surfaces of the pad carriers.
What is the permitted brake disc runout?
According to the repair manual, the disc runout may be at most 0.20 mm. When the runout is over the limit, the disc is turned or replaced.
Can the cause of the shaking be something other than the brakes?
Yes. A tyre whose carcass has failed, or force variation in the front wheels, can shake the steering wheel when braking. A leaking shock absorber can also cause shaking, even though the annual inspection shock absorber test does not reveal it.