Owners of a popular crossover Škoda Kodiaq inevitably face the need for brake system maintenance. The rear brakes on this model are equipped with an electromechanical parking brake drive, which significantly distinguishes the service procedure from classic mechanical handbrake brakes. Incorrect actions when changing brake pads can lead to damage to an expensive caliper or incorrect operation of the system.
The replacement process requires not only the physical dismantling of parts, but also the mandatory use of diagnostic equipment or a specialized tool to remove the piston. If you plan to do the work yourself, it is important to understand that a standard piston puller will not work here without first electronically removing it from the brake mechanism.
Preparing tools and selecting consumables
Before you begin, you must ensure that you have all the necessary equipment. For Škoda Kodiaq It is critical to have an adapter to retract the caliper piston as it rotates during compression. A regular jack and a set of open-end wrenches will not be sufficient here.
You will need a set of sockets, including specific sizes for the wheel bolts and caliper guides. Also, don't forget a torque wrench, as bolt tightening must meet strict factory specifications to ensure safety.
- 🛠️ Special puller for caliper piston with rotation function
- 🔧 Socket set: 17, 19, 30 mm and E14 hexagons
- 💻 Diagnostic scanner or VCDS/VAG-COM adapter
- 🧼 Brake cleaner and slide lube
The choice of pads themselves plays a decisive role in braking performance. Original consumables from VAG Group provide predictable behavior, but high-quality analogues from brands like TRW or ATE are also acceptable subject to verification of certificates.
Electronic parking brake: operating features
The main difficulty when servicing the rear brakes on a crossover is the presence of an electric motor in the caliper. The piston does not just extend, it twists inwards when the handbrake is tightened. It is impossible to press it in mechanically without turning off the power or switching to service mode without breaking the threaded mechanism.
There are two main ways to prepare a caliper for pad replacement. The first method involves using a diagnostic scanner to put the mechanism into maintenance mode. The second option is to use a hand tool, which imitates the movement of a motor, but requires precision.
⚠️ Caution: Never attempt to press the piston with a standard clamp puller unless it has a rotating function. This will cause permanent damage to the internal threads of the electric motor.
If you have access to a diagnostic computer, go to the brake system menu. You must select the “Removing/installing brake pads” function (or something similar in your scanner). Once the mode is activated, the motors will release the brake and the pistons will advance to the replacement position.
Otherwise, the brakes will constantly slow down, which will lead to overheating and wheel jamming.
- Diagnostic scanner
- VAG hand tools
- Special puller
- I don't know how to do it yet
Step-by-step instructions for removing old pads
Start by securing the car. Place chocks under the front wheels and jack up the rear of the car. Remove the wheel and clean the caliper of dirt and rust to prevent abrasives from entering the brake system.
Unscrew the lower caliper guide bolt, which is usually 17mm. The top bolt often has an E14 hex key. After unscrewing, carefully move the caliper to the side, hanging it on a wire so as not to damage the brake hose.
☑️ Removing the caliper
Remove the old brake pads from the bracket. Please note the presence of soundproofing plates and guide brackets. If they are worn or deformed, they must be replaced along with the pads.
Inspect the brake rotor for deep grooves, cracks, or uneven wear. If the disc thickness is close to the minimum allowable, it should also be replaced, otherwise the new pads will quickly wear out.
What to do with the guides?
The caliper guides must be clean and lubricated with special high-temperature grease. The old grease must be completely removed with a cleaner, a new one must be applied and the rubber boots must be installed in place.
The process of installing new pads and pistons
Before installing new parts, be sure to clean the seats on the caliper bracket with a wire brush. This will ensure there are no backlashes or squeaks when braking. Apply a thin layer of high temperature grease to the backs of the pads and contact points.
Install new pads into the bracket. Now comes the most crucial moment - screwing in the piston. If you are using a diagnostic scanner, make sure the electronics are in replacement mode and carefully screw the piston in with a puller until it is tight.
If you are using a mechanical puller, screw the adapter onto the piston and rotate it clockwise while applying pressure. Make sure that the puller is level and not skewed, otherwise you may strip the threads or damage the boot.
- 🔧 Rotate the piston clockwise only (standard for the right side, for the left may vary depending on the model)
- 🛑 Stop if you feel strong resistance - check that the handbrake is disengaged
- 🧽 Monitor the level of brake fluid in the reservoir, as the piston will force the fluid back
Reinstall the bracket and tighten the guide bolts. Use a torque wrench to maintain tightening torques: usually 25-30 Nm for the lower and upper bolts, but check the service book of your Škoda Kodiaq.
Proper lubrication of the guides and the back of the pads prevents squeaks and ensures even wear on the brake system.
The nuances of working with electronics after replacement
After physically installing the parts, it is necessary to return the system to normal mode. If you used a scanner, execute the "Return to working position" or "Exit service mode" command. The caliper motors should operate with a characteristic sound, pulling the pistons to the new pads.
If you used hand tools, simply assemble all the parts. However, in this case, you will have to press the brake pedal all the way down several times so that the pistons take their working position and the contact of the pads with the disc is restored.
Be sure to check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. During the process of retracting the pistons, the liquid rose, and now it can overflow if the reservoir was full to the brim. If necessary, add or remove excess.
⚠️ Attention: After replacing the pads, do not drive on the road immediately. Do a few gentle braking runs in a safe area to break in the pads and ensure the brakes are effective.
Prices for services and consumables
Cost of replacing brake pads Škoda Kodiaq Varies depending on region and service selected. In official dealership centers, the price of work is usually higher, but a guarantee on the operations performed and the use of original spare parts gives confidence in the quality.
If you decide to buy spare parts yourself, pay attention to the original part numbers. Rear pad set for Kodiaq costs from 3,000 to 6,000 rubles depending on the brand and the presence of a wear sensor. The service replacement work itself will cost an average of 2,500 to 4,000 rubles per axle.
| Name | Original article (example) | Average price (RUB) |
|---|---|---|
| Rear pads (set) | 5Q0609451D | 4500 - 6000 |
| Rear pads (similar to TRW) | GDB1858 | 2500 - 3500 |
| Guide lubricant | G 052112A2 | 400 - 800 |
| Replacement work (service station) | - | 2500 - 4000 |
It is worth considering that more powerful versions with diesel engines or 4x4 all-wheel drive may have larger brake mechanisms, which affects the cost of spare parts.
When purchasing pads, always check for a wear indicator. On Škoda Kodiaq The sensor is often included in the kit, and its absence may result in the dashboard light not coming on in time.
Typical mistakes when replacing yourself
One of the most common mistakes is trying to push the piston in without turning off the power or using a special tool. This leads to breakdown of the electric motor, the repair of which can cost as much as a new caliper.
Another mistake is ignoring the condition of the caliper guides. If they become sour, the pad will not press evenly, causing rapid wear on one side and reduced braking performance.
They also often forget about the need to grind in new pads. A sudden stop immediately after replacement can lead to overheating and deformation of the brake disc, since the pad material has not yet adapted to the surface of the disc.
⚠️ Attention: Replacing rear pads without diagnostic equipment on cars with an electronic handbrake is strictly not recommended without using a special mechanical adapter with a rotation function.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Do I need a scanner to change pads on a Kodiaq?
Yes, to put the caliper electric motors into service mode, you need a diagnostic scanner (VCDS, ODIS, Launch or analogues) or a special mechanical tool that simulates the operation of the scanner.
How do you know when it's time to change your rear pads?
Usually the wear lamp on the dashboard lights up, or a characteristic metallic squeak is heard when braking. You can also visually assess the thickness of the friction lining through the caliper window.
Is it possible to change the pads without removing the wheel?
Theoretically, it is possible if the caliper has a special window for access, but on Škoda Kodiaq this is extremely inconvenient and does not allow you to properly clean the bracket and check the condition of the disk. It is necessary to remove the wheel.
What to do if the pads squeak after replacing?
The squeaking noise can be caused by a lack of lubrication on the back of the pads, poor running-in, or the presence of dust. Try braking several times with different strengths. If this does not help, check the installation and presence of anti-squeak plates.
How often do you need to change the rear pads on a Kodiaq?
The replacement interval depends on driving style and operating conditions. On average, rear pads last from 40,000 to 70,000 km, which is significantly longer than the front ones.