At Meta Mechanics, we specialize in providing high-performance automotive services for luxury vehicles like the Audi SQ5. Recently, we had the opportunity to perform a brake pad replacement on this powerful SUV. During the service, we conducted a thorough inspection of the entire braking system and uncovered several important issues that needed attention to ensure your vehicle’s safety, performance, and longevity. Our goal is to deliver transparent, reliable, and effective solutions to all your vehicle needs.
Issue Identified:
1. Worn Brake Pads
- Issue: The front and rear brake pads were significantly worn, with the front pads nearing the minimum thickness. This level of wear can negatively impact stopping power, increase stopping distance, and potentially damage other braking components.
- Solution: We replaced the old pads with OEM-quality replacements specifically designed for the Audi SQ5. These new pads offer improved braking efficiency, better heat dissipation, and smoother, quieter operation.
2. Uneven Brake Pad Wear
- Issue: We noticed uneven wear on the front brake pads, particularly on the driver’s side. Uneven wear is often caused by issues like brake caliper sticking, misalignment, or improper pad contact.
- Solution: After inspecting the brake calipers, we found that they were functioning properly but had accumulated some dirt and grime, which could affect their movement. We performed a complete caliper cleaning and lubrication to ensure smooth operation. Additionally, we adjusted the brake system to ensure even pad contact and prevent further uneven wear.
3. Brake Rotor Scoring and Grooving
- Issue: The brake rotors showed signs of scoring and light grooving, which can occur when worn brake pads leave debris on the rotor surface or when excessive heat is generated during braking. This reduces braking efficiency and can cause vibrations during braking.
- Solution: We recommended resurfacing the rotors, which we carried out after ensuring that the rotors were within acceptable thickness limits. If the rotors had been too worn, we would have replaced them. Resurfacing restores a smooth, even surface for the brake pads, ensuring optimal performance.
4. Brake Fluid Contamination
- Issue: Upon checking the brake fluid, we noticed it was slightly contaminated, which can reduce the system’s efficiency and cause corrosion in the brake lines over time. Contaminated brake fluid can also cause a spongy brake pedal feel.
- Solution: We performed a brake fluid flush to remove contaminants and replaced it with fresh, high-quality brake fluid. This step ensures a responsive pedal feel and extends the life of your brake components.
5. Excessive Brake Dust Accumulation
- Issue: The brake pads and surrounding components had accumulated excessive brake dust, which can degrade braking performance over time and lead to quicker pad wear.
- Solution: We thoroughly cleaned the entire brake system, including the calipers, pads, and rotors. We also applied an anti-dust treatment to the new brake pads to reduce the build-up of dust and keep the braking system cleaner for longer.
Audi SQ5 Inspection of Brake Pads
Audi SQ5 Removal of Old Brake Pads
Audi SQ5 Replacement of Brake Pads
Audi SQ5 Inspection of Brake Rotors
Audi SQ5 Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement
Audi SQ5 Brake Caliper Inspection
Audi SQ5 Brake Fluid Check and Top-Up
Audi SQ5 Brake Hardware Replacement
Audi SQ5 Brake Pad Bedding-in Process
Audi SQ5 Wheel Reinstallation and Torque Check