How to Replace the Rear Brake Pads on a 2000 VW Jetta
The 2000 Jetta is the fourth generation of this popular sedan made by German automaker Volkswagen. One of the routine aspects of Jetta maintenance is ensuring that the brakes are in good condition and working properly. It is recommended that the brakes on a Jetta be replaced every 10,000 miles. Replacement of fourth generation Jetta brakes can be done by a home mechanic with the proper tools and approach. It should be noted that if you are unsure of performing your own brake job, you should leave it up to a professional.
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Things You'll Need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands (2)
- Socket set and ratchet
- Wire
- Brake cleaner
- Shop rags
- Open-ended wrench
- VW caliper tool
- Replacement brake rotors
- Replacement brake pads
Instructions
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1
Park the Jetta on a level surface. Ensure that the transmission is in gear or in park (for an automatic). Do not set the emergency brake. Use a lug wrench to loosen the rear wheels' lug nuts. Raise the back of the vehicle with a heavy-duty floor jack. Lower it onto jack stands then finish removing the rear wheels.
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2
Spray the brake caliper, rotor and nearby parts with brake cleaner and wipe everything down with a rag. Remove the 13 mm bolts that fasten the brake caliper to the caliper bracket with a socket and ratchet. Use an open-ended wrench to hold the flat shank of each bolt in place while you loosen and remove it. Slide the caliper off of the rotor and support it with a piece of wire tied to a suspension part or on a platform. Remove the old brake pads from the brake rotor. Clean the rotor with brake cleaner again.
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3
Use the special VW caliper tool (available online or at your local dealership) to turn the piston clockwise and compress it into the caliper so that there is enough clearance for the new, thicker brake pads. Place the tool into the two slots in the caliper piston and turn it to retract the piston. Consult the instructions that came with the caliper tool for more detailed directions.
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4
Install the new brake pads onto the rotor in the same orientation as the old pads. Slide the caliper over the brake pads, ensuring that they are properly seated under the caliper. Thread in the caliper bolts by hand, then tighten them firmly with the socket and ratchet. Bolt the wheels back onto the car and lower it to the ground with the jack.
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References
- "Chilton Volkswagen Golf/GTI/Jetta/Cabriolet 1999-2005 Repair Manual;" Jay Storer; 2008
