How many kilometers should the brake pads of a Passat be replaced?
2 Answers
Passat brake pads should be replaced approximately every 25,000-30,000 kilometers. Here are the relevant details: 1. Replacement interval: The replacement cycle for brake pads and brake rotors is not fixed, as it depends on the vehicle's driving conditions, the frequency and force with which the driver presses the brake pedal. 2. Front brake pads: Front brake pads wear out faster because during braking, the vehicle's center of gravity shifts forward, causing the front brakes to bear more force than the rear brakes, roughly in a 7:3 ratio. Therefore, the front brake discs are generally larger than the rear ones. The front wheels can be directly disassembled using tools, so no computer settings are required.
Having driven my Passat for so long, I've personally learned that brake pad replacement shouldn't strictly follow mileage guidelines. Generally, Passat brake pads should be inspected between 30,000 to 60,000 kilometers, with front pads wearing faster. In my city driving with frequent stops, they might thin out by 40,000 km, while highway driving with less braking could extend them to 60,000 km. The key is monitoring daily performance - squeaking noises or longer braking distances indicate thickness is nearing the 3mm replacement threshold. Don't wait until complete failure! I recommend having technicians check them during every 10,000 km maintenance. I keep a logbook to track brake condition, preventing unexpected costs. Remember: safety is priceless - don't delay replacements to save money.
