Wear Indicators, Checking

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The wear indicators on the brake rotor friction surfaces are 120 degrees from each other.

The wear indicators -arrow- have a different color to make it easier to recognize them.

Fig 1: Identifying Wear Indicator By Difference In Color To Rotor Surface Metal

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The three wear indicators for the ceramic brake rotors are listed on the front and back sides of each brake rotor.

The following illustration shows a wear indicator that is OK.

Image: Wear indicator is OK.

Fig 2: Identifying OK Wear Indicator

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Wear on a ceramic brake rotor can be identified by a dark, burned-out recess on the wear indicator.

If one of the six indicators is completed burned out, then the brake rotor can no longer be driven. Replace the brake rotor.

The following two images show burned-out wear indicators. The brake rotor must be replaced in this case.

Image: Wear indicator is burned out.

Fig 3: Identifying Burned Out Wear Indicator

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In this case, replace the brake rotors on each side of the axle.

Image: Wear indicator is burned out.

Fig 4: Identifying Burned Out Wear Indicator

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

Brake pads likewise must always be replaced on both sides of the axle.

Checking threaded connectors on the brake rotor ring and brake rotor cup:

WARNING:

The brake rotor ring and the brake rotor cup are attached to each other and must never be separated. Never loosen the threaded connector on the brake rotor cup.