How to Replace Disc Brakes on a Volkswagen

Your Volkswagen's brakes are composed of friction pads that pinch the brake disc, or drum, when you apply the pressure to them. Replace the brakes before they wear beyond 1/4 inch. Failure to maintain your vehicle's brakes significantly increases the risk of damaging your Volkswagen's rotors.

Things You'll Need

• Jack
• Lug wrench
• Piston caliper tool
• Torque wrench

Instructions

1. "Break" the lug nuts, turning them with a lug wrench just until they are loose, then jack up the rear end of your Volkswagen. Remove the lug nuts and the tire.

2. Remove the caliper mounting bolts with the lug wrench, and slide the caliper off the disc rotor. Remove the brake pads from the caliper, including any old springs or shims.

3. Place the shims on the outside of each brake pad, and insert the pads into the caliper bracket.

4. Turn the caliper piston clockwise, using a piston caliper tool, while pressing it into the caliper bore. Place the caliper over the brake pads, then tighten the caliper mounting bolts. Using a torque wrench, torque the bolts to 18 ft.-lbs.

5. Replace the tire and lug nuts, and lower your Volkswagen from the jack. Remove the jack. Get into the car and pump the brakes to test them.

References

• Chilton: DIY Auto Repair