The braking system is one of the key safety elements ŠKODA Karoq, and the condition of the brake pads directly affects the braking efficiency, braking distance and driving comfort. In this article we will look at how to choose the right pads for Karoq (including versions with engines 1.5 TSI, 2.0 TDI and hybrid modifications), what to look for when purchasing, as well as how to independently diagnose wear and replace.
Despite the fact that the manufacturer claims an average pad life of 30–50 thousand km, actual service life depends on driving style, quality of materials and operating conditions. For example, in the urban cycle with frequent acceleration and braking, the pads wear out in 1.5–2 times fasterthan during quiet driving on the highway. We analyzed owner reviews, technical data and service center recommendations to create the most complete guide possible.
What brake pads are installed on the ŠKODA Karoq from the factory
On the assembly line ŠKODA Karoq (body NU, 2017–present) original pads from TRW (under the brand VAG) that meet the standards Volkswagen Group. Article numbers of original spare parts depend on the vehicle modification and the type of brake system:
- 🔧 Front pads (disc brakes):
5Q0 698 151 A(for most versions),5Q0 698 151 B(for models with larger brake discs, e.g. Karoq RS). - 🔧 Rear pads (disc brakes):
5Q0 698 451 A. - 🔧 Rear pads (drum brakes, rare for basic configurations):
6Q0 698 451.
Original pads TRW are made from semi-metallic composite with the addition of ceramic fibers, which ensures stable braking at high temperatures and minimal wear of the brake discs. However, their price often exceeds 5–7 thousand rubles per set, so many owners choose analogues from trusted brands.
- Original (VAG/TRW)
- Premium analogues (Brembo, ATE)
- Budget analogues (Ferodo, Textar)
- I don't know which ones are worth
Top 5 analogues of original pads for Karoq: comparison by price and quality
If you decide to save money or original pads are not available, you can consider analogues from leading manufacturers. We analyzed owner reviews ŠKODA Karoq and technical specifications to rank the best alternatives:
| Brand | Article (front) | Material | Average price (set) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brembo | P 24 060 |
Ceramics + metal | 4 200–5 000 ₽ | Minimal dust, long service life (up to 60 thousand km) |
| ATE | 13.0460-7207.2 |
Semi-metallic | 3 500–4 300 ₽ | Optimal price/quality ratio, low squeaking |
| Ferodo | FDB1886 |
Low metal | 2 800–3 500 ₽ | Budget option, suitable for a relaxed driving style |
| Textar | 2463501 |
Organic | 3 000–3 800 ₽ | Soft braking, but wears out faster |
| TRW (not original) | GDB1885 |
Semi-metallic | 4 000–4 800 ₽ | Similar to the original, but 20–30% cheaper |
When choosing analogues, pay attention to certification: quality pads must meet standards ECE R90 (European safety certificate). Also check if they are suitable for your modification Karoq - for example, pads for the version with engine 2.0 TDI (190 hp) may differ from pads for 1.5 TSI (150 hp) due to different vehicle weights and load on the brake system.
⚠️ Attention: Pads with a high metal content (more than 60%) can accelerate wear on brake rotors and cause vibration when braking. For ŠKODA Karoq the best option is semi-metallic or ceramic pads with a metal content of no more than 30–40%.
Signs of brake pad wear: when is it time to change
The manufacturer recommends checking the condition of the brake pads every 15 thousand km or once a year, but in practice their wear may appear earlier. Here are the key symptoms that indicate the need for replacement:
- 🚨 Creaking or whistling when braking - appears due to a wear indicator (a metal plate that rubs against the disc).
- 🚗 Increased braking distance — the pads lose efficiency due to the thinning of the friction layer.
- 🔥 Vibration or beat on the steering wheel - may indicate uneven wear of the pads or deformation of the brake disc.
- 💨 Excessive dust on rims - especially important for soft organic pads.
- 🛑 Signal on the dashboard (if the car is equipped with wear sensors).
For an accurate diagnosis, it is enough to visually inspect the pads through the wheel spokes or remove it. Minimum permissible friction layer thickness — 2–3 mm. If the layer is thinner, the pads must be replaced. Also pay attention to the condition of the brake discs: if they have deep grooves or cracks, they will also have to be replaced.
What happens if you drive on worn out pads?
Continuing operation with worn pads leads to:
- Overheating of brake discs and their deformation (the cost of replacing discs is 2–3 times higher than that of pads).
- Leakage of brake fluid due to damage to the caliper pistons.
- Complete loss of braking efficiency, especially at high speeds.
- Risk of accidents due to increased braking distance (up to 30–40% longer than normal).
Step-by-step instructions: how to replace brake pads on a Karoq yourself
Replacing the front pads with ŠKODA Karoq - a task of medium complexity that even a novice car owner can handle with a minimum set of tools. To work you will need:
- 🔧 Jack and supports (or lift).
- 🔧 Keys on
13,15and17(for caliper). - 🔧 Screwdriver with a flat blade (for spreading the pads).
- 🔧 Brake fluid
DOT 4(for topping up). - 🔧 Caliper guide lubricant (e.g. Slipkote 220-R DBC).
Before starting work necessarily remove the negative terminal from the battery to avoid triggering the electronics (especially if the car is equipped with a ESC or Hill Hold). Next, follow the algorithm:
1. Place the car on a flat surface and secure the rear wheels with chocks.
2. Loosen the wheel bolts, but do not remove it completely.
3. Raise the car with a jack and remove the wheel.
4. Clean the caliper and brake disc from dirt (use a wire brush and brake cleaner).-->
Remove the caliper: Unscrew the two caliper mounting bolts (usually on
15or17), then carefully hang it on a wire or a special hook without disconnecting the brake hose.Remove old pads: Pull out the retaining clips (if any) and remove the pads. Pay attention to the condition of the guide boots - if they are damaged, they also need to be replaced.
Install new pads: Before installation, apply a thin layer anti-seize paste on the back side of the pads (but not on the friction layer!). Insert the pads into the caliper and secure with brackets.
Press in the caliper piston: Use a special tool or an adjustable wrench to push the piston down. On models with electronic handbrake (EPB) this is done through a diagnostic scanner or a button in the cabin (see instructions for your version Karoq).
Reassemble everything in reverse order: Install the caliper in place, tighten the bolts to a torque
30–35 Nm, put on the wheel and lower the car. After replacing, press the brake pedal several times so that the pads take their working position.
⚠️ Attention: After replacing the pads necessarily Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir - it may rise due to the indentation of the piston. If the liquid is overfilled, it must be pumped out with a syringe, otherwise when heated it will flow through the overpressure valve.
If the brake pedal becomes soft after replacing the pads, bleed the brake system. To do this, you need to sharply press the pedal several times and hold it down until an assistant unscrews the bleeder fitting on the caliper.
Common mistakes when replacing pads and how to avoid them
Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to premature pad wear or brake system malfunctions. Here are the most common mistakes and ways to prevent them:
- 🔧 Unlubricated caliper guides - lead to jamming and uneven wear of the pads. Always clean the guides and apply special lubricant.
- 🔧 Using the wrong lubricant - ordinary lithol or graphite destroys rubber anthers. Use only high temperature lubricants based on copper or ceramics.
- 🔧 Incorrect piston pressing - on models with EPB The piston is screwed in clockwise rather than simply pushed in. For this you need a special tool.
- 🔧 Installing pads without running in — new pads need to be ground in: for the first 200–300 km, avoid sudden braking.
Another common mistake is ignoring the condition of the brake discs. If the discs have deep grooves (more than 0.5 mm), they definitely need to be sharpened or replaced. Otherwise, the new pads will quickly wear out and braking performance will deteriorate.
On ŠKODA Karoq with the system EPB (electronic handbrake) after replacing the pads, you must reset the service interval through the diagnostic scanner or the on-board computer menu (Settings → Service → Brake pad reset).
Pad service life: how to extend the resource
Brake pad life Karoq depends not only on the quality of materials, but also on driving style and operating conditions. Here are some proven ways to increase their service life:
- 🚗 Smooth braking: Avoid sudden pedal presses - this reduces the temperature of the pads and reduces wear.
- 🔥 Overheat control: After prolonged braking (for example, on a descent), let the pads cool down; do not put the car on the handbrake immediately after stopping.
- 🛠️ Regular cleaning: Remove dirt and dust from calipers and discs to prevent corrosion and uneven wear.
- 🔧 Checking the brake fluid: Replace it every 2 years — old fluid accumulates moisture, which reduces braking efficiency.
It is also worth considering that the Karoq with all-wheel drive (4×4) rear pads wear out faster due to the distribution of braking forces. In this case, it is recommended to check their condition every 10 thousand km.
Owner reviews: which pads did they choose?
We analyzed owner reviews ŠKODA Karoq on the forums (Skoda-Club.ru, Drive2) and on social networks to identify the most popular pad options and their real resource:
- ⭐ Brembo P 24 060: "Drove 45 thousand km - minimal wear, almost no dust. The only negative is the price." (Karoq 1.5 TSI, 2020)
- ⭐ ATE 13.0460-7207.2: "Good balance between price and quality. There are no creaks, the brakes are smooth. Service life is about 35 thousand km." (Karoq 2.0 TDI, 2019)
- ⭐ Ferodo FDB1886: “It’s a budget option, but it generates a lot of dust. But in 30 thousand km they haven’t squeaked even once.” (Karoq 1.6 MPI, 2018)
Many owners note that the original pads TRW last longer than analogues (up to 50–60 thousand km), but their high price often becomes a deterrent. The problem is also often mentioned in reviews squeaking pads - especially on versions with engine 2.0 TDIwhere the braking system experiences increased loads.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about ŠKODA Karoq brake pads
Is it possible to install pads on only one axle (for example, only the front ones)?
No, the pads are always changed in pairs on the same axis (both front or both rear). If you replace the pads on only one side, this will lead to uneven braking and the car pulling to the side.
How often should the brake pads on a Karoq be checked?
The manufacturer recommends inspection every 15 thousand km or once a year. If you often drive in the city or on mountain roads, check the pads every 10 thousand km.
What are the differences between the pads for Karoq with EPB (electronic handbrake)?
On models with EPB The caliper piston is screwed into a thread, so a special tool is needed to press it in (for example, Hazet 2099-1). Also, after replacement, the service interval must be reset through diagnostics.
Can I use pads from other VW Group models (eg Tiguan or Octavia)?
Yes, but only if the articles match. For example, front pads 5Q0 698 151 A suitable for VW Tiguan (body AD) and ŠKODA Octavia (body NX). Always check the catalog ETKA or Elcats.
Why do new pads squeak?
Creaking can occur due to:
- Poor quality friction material (especially for budget pads).
- Lack of anti-squeak plates or lubricant on the back side.
- Incorrect running-in (in the first 200–300 km, avoid sudden braking).
If the squeaking persists, try applying anti-squeak paste (for example, Liqui Moly Bremsen-Anti-Quietsch-Paste).