Prepare Your Tools and Work Area

• Gather necessary tools such as a lug wrench, jack and jack stands, brake caliper tool or C-clamp, socket wrench, and new brake pads.
• Ensure your work area is flat, stable, and well-lit.
• Put on safety gear like gloves and safety goggles.

Loosen the Lug Nuts

• Use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you will be replacing the brake pads. Do not completely remove the nuts at this point.

Lift the Vehicle

• Place the jack under the recommended jacking point closest to the wheel you are working on.
• Carefully raise the car with the jack and secure it with jack stands for added safety.

Remove the Wheel

• Fully remove the loosened lug nuts.
• Remove the wheel to expose the brake caliper and rotor.

Access the Brake Pads

• Locate the brake caliper and remove the bolts or clips that hold it in place using a socket wrench.
• Carefully lift the caliper off the rotor. Be sure not to let it hang by the brake hose, as this can cause damage. You can use a piece of wire to hang it to the suspension.

Remove the Old Brake Pads

• Slide the old brake pads out of the caliper bracket.
• Inspect the rotor for any significant wear or damage. Consider professional help if the rotor looks damaged.

Install the New Brake Pads

• Use a brake caliper tool or C-clamp to push the caliper piston back into the caliper. This is crucial to fit the new, thicker brake pads.
• Place the new brake pads into the caliper bracket where the old ones were removed from.

Reattach the Caliper

• Carefully position the caliper back over the rotor and new brake pads.
• Secure the caliper back in place by tightening the bolts or clips you previously removed.

Reinstall the Wheel

• Position the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Remove the jack stands and carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.

Tighten the Lug Nuts

• Once the car is back on the ground, use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even tightening.

Test the Brakes

• Before driving, press the brake pedal a few times to ensure the brake pads are properly seated and there is sufficient brake fluid pressure.
• Perform a short test drive to confirm the brakes are functioning correctly. Listen for any unusual noises and ensure that the vehicle comes to a smooth stop.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully replace the brake pads on a 2020 BMW 3 Series. If you encounter any issues or are unsure about a step, consider seeking the assistance of a professional mechanic.