Replacing rear brake pads on a ŠKODA Superb: instructions with photos and videos

Rear brake pads on ŠKODA Superb - a consumable that requires attention every 30–50 thousand km depending on driving style. Their wear is not as critical as that of the front ones, but the problem cannot be ignored: braking efficiency decreases, the risk of disc overheating increases, and in the worst case, the caliper jams. If you notice squealing when braking, increased pedal travel, or metal shavings on your pads, it's time to take action.

In this article - detailed instructions for replacing rear pads on Superb 2nd and 3rd generations (including liftback and combi), taking into account the features of the electronic handbrake (EPB). We'll look at what tools are needed, how to properly remove the caliper, avoid mistakes when installing new pads, and reset the service indicator. We will also tell you why on Superb with 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI engines the pads wear out faster due to the increased weight and features of the braking system.

When to change rear pads on a ŠKODA Superb: signs of wear

The manufacturer recommends checking the condition of the pads every 15 thousand km, but the actual service life depends on several factors:

• 🚗 Riding style: Frequent hard braking reduces the life of the pads by 30–40%.
• 🏔️ Operating conditions: in the city (with traffic jams) the pads wear out faster than on the highway.
• 🔧 Quality of materials: original pads TRW or ATE last longer than inexpensive analogues.
• ⚙️ Condition of calipers and discs: A stuck piston or warped disc accelerates wear.

The need for replacement can be determined by the following signs:

• 🔊 Creaking or whistling when braking (especially at low speeds).
• 📏 Friction layer thickness less 2–3 mm (the norm for new ones is 8–12 mm).
• 🚨 Vibration or beat on the steering wheel when braking (may indicate disc deformation).
• 💡 The pad wear indicator is on on the dashboard (on models with gauges).

⚠️ Attention! On Superb with electronic handbrake (EPB) the signal about critical pad wear cannot be ignored. The system can automatically lock the wheels when parking if the friction layer is worn down to metal.

For an accurate diagnosis, a visual inspection through the wheel spokes or removing the wheel is sufficient. If the pads show deep grooves, cracks or metal backing, replacement should not be delayed.

Which pads to choose for ŠKODA Superb: original vs analogues

Original rear pads for Superb supplies TRW (article 1K0 698 451 G for 2nd generation, 5Q0 698 451 for the 3rd). Their average price is RUB 3,500–5,000 per set per axle. However, many owners choose analogues that are not inferior in quality, but are 30–50% cheaper.

Brand	Article	Price per axle (RUB)	Features
TRW (original)	GDB1545	4 800–5 200	Minimum noise level, high resource
ATE	13.0460-7118.2	3 200–3 800	Good heat dissipation, suitable for aggressive driving
Brembo	P 24 060	3 500–4 000	Reinforced friction material formula
Textar	2463701	2 800–3 300	Budget option with good reviews
Ferodo	FDB1545	3 000–3 500	Low dust levels, but wear out faster

When choosing analogues, pay attention to:

• 🔍 Certification: pads must meet the standard ECE R90.
• 📦 Completeness: The kit should contain guide plates and caliper lubricant.
• 🔧 EPB Compatible: some cheap analogues may not work correctly with the electronic handbrake.

⚠️ Attention! On Superb 3 with engines 2.0 TDI (150+ hp) pads with an increased contact area are installed. The use of “universal” analogues will lead to uneven wear and vibration.

If you prefer the original, buy pads only from authorized dealers or trusted suppliers. Counterfeits TRW are common on the market and can cause the caliper to seize.

Tools and materials for replacing rear pads

To replace the pads yourself ŠKODA Superb You will need the following tool:

• 🔧 Jack and stops (or lift).
• 🔩 Balloon wrench and socket heads 13 mm, 15 mm, 17 mm.
• 🔨 Hammer and wooden spacer (for knocking out guides).
• 🔧 Brake piston puller (or clamp with adapter).
• 🧴 Caliper Lubricant (SLIPKOTE or LIQUI MOLY Bremsen-Anti-Quietsch-Paste).
• 🔧 Vernier caliper (to measure the remaining thickness of the pads).
• 🔌 Diagnostic scanner (for example, VCDS or OBDeleven) to reset the service indicator.

Additionally prepare:

• 🧽 Brake cleaner (BRAKE CLEANER) to remove dirt from the caliper.
• 🧤 Gloves (Brake dust is carcinogenic!).
• 📦 New caliper guides (recommended to be changed every time the pads are replaced).

Remove the negative terminal from the battery (required for EPB)|

Jack up the car and remove the rear wheels|

Clean the caliper and disc from dirt with brake cleaner|

Prepare new pads and lubricant|

Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir (pump out excess if necessary) -->

If you have Superb with EPB, before starting work necessarily perform two operations:

1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery (to avoid accidental activation of the handbrake).
2. Move the lever EPB into service mode via a diagnostic scanner or a combination of buttons (see section below).

Step-by-step instructions: how to change rear pads on a ŠKODA Superb

The process of replacing pads Superb There are differences between mechanical and electronic handbrake. Below are universal instructions taking into account the features EPB.

Step 1: Preparing and removing the wheel

1. Place the car on a level surface, engage first gear (or P for automatic transmission) and place chocks under the front wheels.

2. Loosen the rear wheel bolts, then jack up the car and remove the wheel.

3. Clean the caliper and brake disc from dirt using BRAKE CLEANER. Do not use gasoline or kerosene!

Step 2: Removing the caliper and old pads

1. Unscrew the two bolts securing the caliper to the bracket (usually on 13 mm or 15 mm).

2. Carefully pry up the caliper with a screwdriver and remove it by hanging it on a wire (do not let it hang on the brake hose!).

3. Remove the old pads and guide plates. Please note the condition piston boots - if they are cracked, they also need to be replaced.

What to do if the caliper cannot be removed?

If the caliper is stuck to the bracket, do not hit it with a hammer! Lubricate the guides with penetrating lubricant (eg WD-40), wait 10-15 minutes and gently tap through the wooden spacer. If this does not help, you may need to replace the guides (part number 1K0 615 123 for Superb 2).

Step 3: Recessing the caliper piston

On Superb with EPB The piston is screwed in clockwise. To do this:

1. Install a brake piston puller or a clamp with an adapter.
2. Turn the piston clockwisewhile simultaneously pressing on it.
3. If the piston does not move, check whether it is moved EPB into service mode (see next section).

On models with a mechanical handbrake, the piston is simply pressed inward.

Step 4: Install New Pads

1. Apply a thin layer of lubricant to back side of the pads (where they contact the caliper) and on the guides.

2. Install new pads into the bracket, then put on the caliper and secure with bolts. Tighten crosswise with the moment 30 Nm.

3. Press the brake pedal 3-4 times until the piston is in the working position.

Step 5: Reset Service Light (for EPB)

If the pad wear indicator is on on the dashboard, you need to reset it:

1. Connect the diagnostic scanner (VCDS, OBDeleven).
2. Go to block 53 – Parking Brake.
3. Select Basic Settings → Service and start the reset procedure.

Without a scanner, you can try to reset the indicator manually:

1. Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).
2. Press and hold the button EPB within 10 seconds.
3. Release the button, turn off the ignition and turn it on again. Repeat the procedure 2-3 times.

Features of replacing a Superb with EPB (electronic handbrake)

System EPB on ŠKODA Superb requires additional manipulations when replacing pads. If you ignore these nuances, you can damage the mechanism or get an error on the dashboard.

What to do before replacing:

1. Translate EPB into service mode via a diagnostic scanner or a combination:

   1. Turn on the ignition.
   2. Press and hold the EPB button.
   3. Engage first gear (or D for automatic transmission).
   4. Release the EPB button and you will hear a click.

2. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery (required!).

What to do after replacement:

• 🔧 Bleed the brakes (if the piston was recessed too deep).
• 🔄 Reset EPB adaptation through a scanner (in the block 53 – Parking Brake → Adaptation).
• 🚗 Test the handbrake: Turn it on and off several times, check the wheel locking.

⚠️ Attention! If after replacing the pads EPB does not work (does not block the wheels), check:

• Correct installation of the pads (they should fit tightly, without distortions).
• Wear sensor wiring condition (on Superb 3 it is built into the block).
• Presence of errors in the block 53 (if there is, diagnostics is required).

On models with EPB also recommended every 2 years lubricate the parking brake mechanism through the service hole (use lubricant Molykote M77).

Common mistakes when replacing pads and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes that lead to squeaking, uneven brake wear, or brake failure. Here are the most common of them:

• 🔧 Unlubricated guides → the caliper gets stuck, the pads wear unevenly.

  How to avoid: Use only high temperature grease (not Litol or Solid oil!).

• 🔩 Overtightened caliper bolts → deformation of the bracket, vibration during braking.

  How to avoid: Tighten with torque 30 Nm (use a torque wrench).

• 🚫 Forgot to reset EPB → it is impossible to recess the piston, there is a risk of damage to the mechanism.

  How to avoid: Always translate EPB into service mode before work.

• 🧴 Lubricant on the friction surface → reduction in braking efficiency.

  How to avoid: Apply lubricant only on the back side of the pads and guides.

• 🔄 Didn't bleed the brakes after replacement → soft pedal, increased travel.

  How to avoid: Bleed the brakes if the piston is recessed too deep.

Another typical problem is new pads squeak. It may appear due to:

• Low-quality friction material (especially cheap analogues).
• Lack of anti-squeak plates (they should be included!).
• Dirt gets between the pad and the caliper.

If after replacing the pads the car pulls to the side when braking, check:

• Uniform disc wear (grooving may be required).
• Condition of the caliper boots (if the piston jams, the pads will press unevenly).
• Correct installation of the pads (they must be the same on both sides!).

How much does it cost to replace rear pads on a ŠKODA Superb at a service center?

The cost of replacing brake pads at a car service depends on the type of handbrake and the region. On average prices are as follows:

Type of work	Cost (RUB)	Notes
Replacing pads (mechanical handbrake)	1 500–2 500	Does not include the cost of pads
Replacing pads (EPB)	2 500–4 000	Enables service indicator reset
Replacing pads + turning discs	3 500–5 500	Recommended for uneven wear
EPB diagnostics (in case of errors)	1 000–2 000	Includes reading codes and resetting

At official dealerships ŠKODA the price is 30–50% higher, but you get a guarantee for the work (usually 1 year). Replacing it yourself is cheaper, but requires time and skill. If you have never worked with EPB, it is better to entrust this to professionals - mistakes when handling the electronic handbrake can be expensive.

You can save on:

• 🛒 Purchasing pads and consumables yourself (the service often charges a 20–30% markup).
• 🔧 Replacing caliper guides and boots along with the pads (this is cheaper than separate work).
• 📊 Preventive diagnostics EPB once every 2 years (avoids costly repairs).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing rear pads on a ŠKODA Superb

Is it possible to drive if the rear pads squeak?

A short-term squeak during light braking is not critical, but if the sound is constant and accompanied by vibrations, the pads need to be changed. On Superb with EPB Ignoring a squeak can lead to automatic wheel locking due to false activation of the wear sensor.

How to check pad wear without removing the wheel?

On most versions Superb you can look through the wheel spokes and estimate the thickness of the friction layer. If it's thinner 3 mm, the pads must be replaced. Also note indicator marks (some pads have slots that disappear when worn).

Do I need to change brake discs and pads?

Not always. Discs are changed if:

• Their thickness is less than permissible (for Superb - usually 20 mm for the rear).
• There are deep grooves or cracks on the surface.
• When braking, you can feel the steering wheel wobbling.

If the disks are in good condition, it is enough grooves (cost: 1,000–1,500 rubles per disc).

What should I do if the EPB light comes on after replacing the pads?

First check:

1. The pads are installed correctly (the wear sensor must be connected).
2. Sensor wiring condition (on Superb 3 it often frays).
3. Presence of errors in the block 53 – Parking Brake (diagnostics required).

If the problem persists, try resetting the indicator using a scanner or contact service.

What lubricant should I use for calipers?

Suitable for guides and the back of the pads:

• SLIPKOTE 220-R DBC (best option for EPB).
• LIQUI MOLY Bremsen-Anti-Quietsch-Paste (universal).
• Molykote M77 (for mechanisms EPB).

Prohibited use: Litol-24, Solid oil, graphite lubricants - they do not withstand high temperatures.