Brakes

Parking-brake actuator

Applies a holding brake when the car is parked.

Where it sits

At rear calipers or a separate cable mechanism, depending on model.

How it works

An electric motor or mechanical lever applies a parking-brake mechanism independent of normal pedal input.

Think of it as

A dedicated hand holding the stopped car.

Symptoms when it fails

Failure to apply or release can involve power, actuator, cables or the brake mechanism.

Lifespan

Pads and discs are measured wear items. Driving, environment and regenerative braking change wear; use the actual inspection limits.

Repair cost

Ordinary friction service differs greatly from carbon-ceramic replacement or hydraulic-controller work; obtain a vehicle-specific quote.

The BMW angle

BMW electronic parking-brake hardware differs between generations and rear-brake designs.

Used in

BMW models with hydraulic friction brakes; performance equipment and parking-brake design vary.

Sources
Same system

Brakes