At Meta Mechanics, we recently completed a rear brake pad replacement on an Audi SQ3, and during the service, we uncovered several important issues that could have compromised the vehicle’s braking performance and overall safety. Here’s a breakdown of what we found and the steps we took to ensure the Audi SQ3 is back in optimal condition.
Issue Identified:
Issue #1: Severely Worn Rear Brake Pads
- What We Found: The rear brake pads were significantly worn down, well past the minimum thickness for safe operation. Worn brake pads reduce the efficiency of your braking system, increasing stopping distances and making the car harder to control in emergency situations.
- Solution: We replaced the worn brake pads with high-quality, OEM-spec replacements that ensure optimal braking performance. Our team only uses premium brake pads that match the Audi SQ3’s specifications, providing excellent stopping power, comfort, and durability.
Issue #2: Glazed Brake Pads
- What We Found: Upon further inspection, we found that the brake pads were “glazed.” This means the surface of the pads had become hardened and smooth due to excessive heat build-up from hard or prolonged braking. Glazing leads to reduced friction and can cause increased brake noise, vibration, and even overheating.
- Solution: We replaced the glazed pads with new ones and took extra care to address the underlying cause, which could have been due to aggressive driving habits or worn-out components. By installing fresh, high-performance pads, we restored the proper friction coefficient for safe and smooth braking.
Issue #3: Brake Fluid Contamination
- What We Found: During our service, we discovered that the brake fluid had become contaminated with moisture, which is common over time due to condensation in the brake lines. Contaminated fluid can cause brake fade, corrosion, and reduced overall braking effectiveness.
- Solution: We flushed the entire brake system and replaced the old, contaminated fluid with new, fresh brake fluid that meets or exceeds Audi’s specifications. This ensures that the braking system functions optimally, especially under heavy use, and helps to prevent internal corrosion of the brake components.
Issue #4: Uneven Brake Rotor Wear
- What We Found: The rear brake rotors were exhibiting uneven wear, likely caused by the old, worn brake pads. This can lead to vibrations, noise, and uneven braking performance. In some cases, uneven rotor wear can also result in premature pad wear and increased brake dust.
- Solution: We resurfaced the rotors to remove the imperfections, ensuring that the new brake pads would make proper contact. In cases where rotors are too damaged, we would recommend full rotor replacement, but in this case, the rotors were salvageable. This repair ensures smooth, quiet braking and better overall efficiency.
Issue #5: Sticking Brake Calipers
- What We Found: The brake calipers on the rear axle were found to be sticking slightly, which can cause the pads to drag on the rotor even when the brakes aren’t engaged. This not only reduces braking efficiency but also generates excessive heat, which can cause further damage to the pads and rotors.
- Solution: We cleaned, lubricated, and tested the brake calipers to ensure they were moving freely and evenly applying pressure to the brake pads. Sticking calipers, if left unchecked, can cause uneven wear, increase fuel consumption, and lead to premature failure of other brake system components.
Audi SQ3 Inspection of Rear Brake Pads
Audi SQ3 Removal of Rear Wheels
Audi SQ3 Removal of Old Rear Brake Pads
Audi SQ3 Inspection of Rear Brake Rotors for Damage or Wear
Audi SQ3 Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement (if necessary)
Audi SQ3 Cleaning of Brake Components (Calipers, Rotors, etc.)
Audi SQ3 Lubrication of Caliper Slides and Hardware
Audi SQ3 Installation of New Rear Brake Pads
Audi SQ3 Brake Pad Bedding-In Process
Audi SQ3 Reinstallation of Rear Wheels and Torque Check
