[TMR013]

Took the M2 in for oil service yesterday. As part of the inspection they noted that the parking brake cable clip had broken. Potentially allowing the cable to contact the driveshaft. They recommended replacing the clip. At first I thought, OK no problem, will get the usual BMW markup and probably be a couple hundred $. Then they sent the estimate, $1000! Apparently to get to this clip you have to drop the gas tank, exhaust and driveshaft. I just could not bring myself to spend that kind of money on a clip without researching alternatives first.
I asked if it is a safety issue, and they said no. Said the danger was hitting a bump, or a hard acceleration could bring the cable into contact with the shaft, eventually causing the insulation to wear and the cable breaking, which could be a more expensive fix.
So anybody else run into this issue or heard of it? And any other possible solutions? Know BMW's are expensive, and will pay for the repair if I need to, but had to ask the forum first.
TIA

[Daytona_550]

I had this issue on my daughter's F30 (328i). The same clip problem. Cable would actually rub with shaft on acceleration. Dealer quoted $1200 for repair. I balked and took to my local independent BMW repair shop who took care of it for $250. The procedure may be different on the F87 but I would still recommend an indy shop. Good luck!

[///393]

Originally Posted by TMR013

And any other possible solutions?

+1 for finding a reputable independent BMW mechanic for this one.

[Zeese]

New to me. Thanks for the heads-up!

DIY:

Interesting and a bit offensive at once ($$):
https://agatools.com/products/brake-line-bracket

Please let us know what your indy manages. Thanks!

[///393]

First I’m learning of AGA. Thanks for sharing Zeese.

This seems like a great example of when I’m happy to use a non-OEM part/Indy as the AGA part looks superior and you avoid dropping the gas tank.

[Mattaos]

I’ve seen others with this issue cable tie the handbrake cables up and out of the way of the driveshaft.

[TMR013]

That's why I love these forums. Knew there had to be other options. Thanks all!

[Mattaos]

Here’s a link to a cheap fix as well as an upgraded bracket.

https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1676073&page=3

[Zeese]

Originally Posted by Mattaos

Here’s a link to a cheap fix as well as an upgraded bracket.

https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...1676073&page=3

Same as posted above?

Cheap is relative. The upgraded part is priced amusingly high. The lack of a ready alternative likely explains this... given the DIY video that shows its install, well, grin and bear it.

[Mattaos]

Originally Posted by Zeese

Same as posted above?

Cheap is relative. The upgraded part is priced amusingly high. The lack of a ready alternative likely explains this... given the DIY video that shows its install, well, grin and bear it.

That thread shows how to do the cable tie fix as well as links to the upgraded bracket.

[TMR013]

Follow up - Went to a couple independent shops, they both quoted $500 to replace the OEM clip. Decided to get the AGA aftermarket part because that OEM clip is a joke (almost want to complain to BMWNA for such a stupid design), so ended up being $700. Still way too much for a stupid clip, but hey, owning a BMW right?

[///393]

- Saved $300
- Got a way better part that will last
- Didn’t have to deal with the dealership

I’d say this is a triple win sir.