Brake Pads: Removing

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

NOTE:

brake caliper must not be removed in order to remove brake pads.

When removing, mark brake pads that will be used again. Install in the same position, otherwise braking effect will be uneven!

Check the ceramic brake rotors for damage and wear each time the brake pads are changed.

Ceramic Brake Rotor, Checking for Damage, refer to CERAMIC BRAKE ROTORS, EVALUATING .
Ceramic Brake Rotor, Checking for Wear, refer to CERAMIC BRAKE ROTORS, DETERMINING WEAR .

-- Raise the vehicle.

-- Remove the wheels.

CAUTION:

If brake pads are ceramics, wheel must not fall on brake rotor, otherwise it will be irreparably damaged. To install/remove wheel, install two assembly pins from vehicle tool kit in mounts on wheel bolts. The long assembly pin is in the upper position.

-- Secure the brake rotor with a wheel bolt.

-- Disconnect brake wear indicator connector, see illustration.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Brake Wear Indicator Connector

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Release the connector from the retainer using a screwdriver and simultaneously turn the connector 90°.

Fig 2: Releasing Connector From Retainer Using Screwdriver And Simultaneously Turning Connector 90°

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Pull connector out upward and unhook line.

NOTE:

brake caliper must not be removed in order to remove brake pads.

-- Disengage the left and right balance springs -A- first from the guide bolts -B- with pliers.

Fig 3: Identifying Balance Spring, Disengaging And Engaging

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Pull the balance spring -A- then out of the brake pads -C-.

-- Remove the screw for the guide bolts -B-.

-- Remove the guide bolts from the brake pads and brake caliper.

WARNING:

Spring is tensioned and can cause injury when guide pins are removed.

-- Disengage the brake pad wear wire from the spring -2-.

Fig 4: Identifying Front Brake Caliper Assembly Overview, Ceramic Brakes

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

NOTE:

Before removing old brake pads, press brake piston into cylinder using resetting tool. Before pushing back the piston, siphon some of the brake fluid out of the brake fluid reservoir. Otherwise, especially if reservoir has been topped off, fluid will overflow and cause damage.

WARNING:

Brake fluid is poisonous. NEVER siphon brake fluid with your mouth!

-- Remove the spring -2-.

-- Remove brake pads from brake caliper housing.

NOTE:

Clean brake caliper with mineral spirits exclusively.