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Brake Wear Sensor, Can it really be soldered?

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Old Aug 24, 2008 | 10:17 AM
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Question Brake Wear Sensor, Can it really be soldered?

Hi All,

Yesterday I replaced all brake pads on my 2001 LS430. Possibly the easiest DIY job I have done in years and a terrific $$ saver (Total cost $100.98 for OEM pads from Irontoad). The brake wear warning light on my dash flashes. I understand that this is due to the brake wear sensor being worn down due to my delay in replacing the pads. I have also been told that I can "repair" the sensor by soldering the tip where it was worn down and then resetting the computer by disconnecting the battery. Is this true. I am not an experienced solderer (is this a word?). I tried to solder onto the worn section but the solder just ran off. Any suggestions? I tried this while the sensor was still on the car. Should I (can I) remove it to do the soldering? Thank you for your assistance.
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Old Aug 24, 2008 | 01:32 PM
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While i think theoretically this is possible, i think with the normal conditions of heat and such that this sensor will see, the solder will probably just come off at some point. If you want to retain the use of this sensor and have the warning in the future that you need new pads, then go ahead and buy a new sensor. If you want to bypass it, and just make the light go away, then just simply get a tap splice connector and connect to the two wires on the sensor harness, although i wouldnt recommend it.
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Old Aug 24, 2008 | 04:28 PM
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what he said.... a couple hard brake applications could get heat high enough to melt solder...
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Old Aug 24, 2008 | 09:44 PM
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I agree. normal Solder has a melting point of 361.4 Fahrenheit, this is an easily obtained temp of any automotive braking system that sees any type of sporty driving. Might be able to find the sensor used through one of the site vendors if you don't want to pay new OEM lexus costs.
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Old Sep 18, 2008 | 10:03 PM
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Silver solder might hold up, but best to just replace the sensor.
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Old Oct 7, 2008 | 02:57 PM
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I just pulled the bulb...I check the brakes and other items a few times a month anyway...
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