At Meta Mechanics, we know that braking performance is essential to the safety and driving experience of your Audi RS6. While most attention often goes to the front brakes, the rear brake pads play just as crucial a role in providing balanced braking, ensuring your car stops quickly and evenly, without any issues like pulling or instability. Recently, we had the opportunity to perform a rear brake pad replacement on an Audi RS6, and we’d like to share what we found during the inspection, the solutions we implemented, and why regular brake pad maintenance is so important.
Issue Identified:
1. Worn Rear Brake Pads
Problem: The rear brake pads were visibly worn down to the minimum thickness, and the wear indicators were active. Worn-out pads result in decreased braking efficiency, longer stopping distances, and potential damage to the brake rotors.
Solution: We replaced the worn brake pads with OEM-quality (Original Equipment Manufacturer) pads designed specifically for the Audi RS6. These pads are engineered for high-performance and offer precise braking, ensuring that your car stops safely and effectively.
2. Uneven Brake Pad Wear
Problem: Upon further inspection, we noticed that the brake pads on the driver’s side were wearing unevenly compared to the passenger side. Uneven wear can lead to an imbalanced braking force, which can result in pulling to one side or an uncomfortable braking experience.
Solution: We cleaned and lubricated the caliper slides, which were slightly sticky and causing uneven pad wear. Proper lubrication ensures that the calipers can move smoothly, applying uniform pressure across the brake pads. This was necessary to restore consistent braking performance on both sides.
3. Scored Brake Rotors
Problem: The brake rotors showed scoring and grooving due to prolonged use with worn brake pads. This can result in noisy braking, vibrations, and reduced braking efficiency.
Solution: We resurfaced the rotors to remove the grooves and scoring. This ensures that the new brake pads can make proper contact with the rotor surface, restoring smooth braking performance. If the rotors had been too damaged, we would have recommended replacing them, but in this case, resurfacing was sufficient.
4. Brake Fluid Check
Problem: The brake fluid appeared slightly discolored, indicating that it was time for a change. Contaminated or old brake fluid can lead to brake fade and can reduce the responsiveness of the brake system.
Solution: We conducted a brake fluid flush and replaced the old fluid with fresh, high-quality fluid to ensure optimal performance of the braking system. This helps maintain the hydraulic pressure necessary for effective braking.
Audi RS6 Inspection of Rear Brake Pads
Audi RS6 Removal of Rear Wheels
Audi RS6 Removal of Old Rear Brake Pads
Audi RS6 Inspection of Rear Brake Rotors for Damage or Wear
Audi RS6 Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement (if necessary)
Audi RS6 Cleaning of Brake Components (Calipers, Rotors, etc.)
Audi RS6 Lubrication of Caliper Slides and Hardware
Audi RS6 Installation of New Rear Brake Pads
Audi RS6 Brake Pad Bedding-In Process
Audi RS6 Reinstallation of Rear Wheels and Torque Check
