I have a 03 e500 sport. I would like to change the brake pads to ceramic. there is a warning to disable the brake system to do it yourself is this necessary?

 

yes,it is a high pressure system and a must to be disengaged.The w211 section on mbworld.org has a diy if you search on what to disconnect and other tips.Or post the concern over there and they will chime in with the how to.
good luck.
akebono pads give great results with little dust.I think tirerack stocks them.
ohlord

 

Read this link for DIY brake job with SBC

http://mbworld.org/forums/showthread.php?t=91542

here is the linkto the picture that support the brake job

http://www.imagestation.com/album/in...?id=2116413897