Replacing front brake pads on a Škoda Kodiaq: a complete guide with photos and videos

Replacing front brake pads with Škoda Kodiaq - a procedure that many car owners prefer to perform on their own. This not only saves the budget (the service will charge from 2,500 to 4,000 rubles for the work), but also allows you to control the quality of the spare parts used. However, without knowing the key nuances, even such a routine operation can result in problems: from the squeaking of new pads to uneven wear of the discs.

In this article we will analyze the entire process from A to Z: how to determine when it’s time to change the pads, which Articles of original and analog spare parts suitable for Kodiaq (including versions with engines 1.5 TSI, 2.0 TSI and 2.0 TDI), what tools are needed, and how to avoid common mistakes. We will pay special attention adjusting the caliper after installing new pads - this step is often missed, which leads to jamming of the brakes.

Signs of front brake pad wear

The first signal about the need for replacement is creaking or whistling when braking. On Škoda Kodiaq (as on other models VW Group) the pads are equipped with wear indicators - metal plates that begin to cling to the disc when the friction layer becomes critically thin. But you can’t rely on this sign alone: ​​sometimes the plates break or wear out ahead of time.

More reliable symptoms:

• 🔍 Visual wear: friction layer thickness less than 3–4 mm (the norm is 10–12 mm for new pads). Checked through the caliper inspection window or after removing the wheel.
• 🚗 Increased braking distance: If the car brakes worse than usual, even with dry discs and pads.
• 🔥 Disk overheating: after intense braking, the wheels are hot to the touch, and a characteristic burning smell emanates from them.
• 📏 Uneven disc wear: grooves appear on the inside or outside, “shoulders” along the edges.

⚠️ Attention: If deep grooves (more than 1 mm) have already formed on the discs, new pads will last 2–3 times less. In this case, it is recommended to sharpen or replace the discs along with the pads.

On Kodiaq with engines 2.0 TDI (especially in the version 4x4) the pads wear out faster due to the greater weight of the vehicle. Owners of such modifications should check their brakes every 15–20 thousand km, even if there are no signs of wear.

Selecting brake pads: original vs analogues

Original pads for Škoda Kodiaq (2017–2026) supplies TRW - subsidiary ZF. Their article numbers depend on the year of manufacture and engine type:

Kodiaq modification	Original article number	Manufacturer	Approximate price, rub.
1.5 TSI (150 hp), 2017–2020	5Q0 698 151 A	TRW	3 800–4 500
2.0 TSI (190/245 hp), 2017–2026	5Q0 698 151 J	TRW	4 200–5 000
2.0 TDI (150/190/240 hp), 2017–2026	5Q0 698 151 K	TRW	4 500–5 300

Analogs from trusted brands will cost 30–50% less, but it is important to choose certified options:

• 🔧 ATE (13.0460-7207.2) - soft pads with low dust levels, but wear out faster.
• 🔧 Brembo (P 85 036) - optimal balance of price and quality, suitable for an aggressive driving style.
• 🔧 Textar (2583601) - durable, but can creak for the first 200–300 km.
• 🔧 Ferodo (FDB1886) - premium segment, minimal dust and noise, but the price is close to the original.

⚠️ Attention: Pads Bosch (0 986 494 720) are often counterfeited. Check the presence of a hologram on the packaging and a certificate of conformity ECE R90.

When choosing analogues, pay attention to friction coefficient (must be no lower than that) 0.35) and availability anti-squeak plates. On Kodiaq with the system ESC (electronic stability control) pads with more than 10% metal fibers are not recommended - they can cause false alarms.

Necessary tools and preparation

To replace the pads with Škoda Kodiaq You don’t need a professional kit—a basic tool that most car owners have is enough. The main thing is that the keys and heads are of high quality: a weak tool can “lick” the edges of the caliper bolts.

Minimum set:

• 🔧 Socket wrench or socket 13 mm (for caliper guides).
• 🔧 Socket wrench on 17 mm (for the bolt securing the caliper to the bracket).
• 🔧 Hexagon on 7 mm (for some modifications Kodiaq 2020+).
• 🔧 Sliding pliers or special caliper compressor (to press the piston).
• 🔧 WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant (for soured bolts).
• 🔧 Copper brake pad grease (e.g. LIQUI MOLY Kupfer-Paste).
• 🔧 Jack and supports (or lift if accessible).
• 🔧 Torque wrench (optional, for precise bolt tightening).

Vehicle preparation:

1. Park Kodiaq on a level surface, engage first gear (or P for automatic transmission) and place chocks under the rear wheels.
2. Loosen the front wheel bolts while the vehicle is on the ground.
3. Raise the car with a jack, remove the wheel and clean the caliper of dirt (use a wire brush and brake cleaner).
4. Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir - if it is maximum, pump out some of it with a syringe (when the piston is pressed in, the fluid will rise and may overflow).

Loosen the wheel bolts on the ground|Raise the car and remove the wheel|Clean the caliper from dirt|Check the brake fluid level|Prepare new pads and lubricant-->

Step-by-step instructions for replacing pads

Replacement process Škoda Kodiaq takes 1–1.5 hours for both wheels. The main thing is not to rush and follow the sequence so as not to damage the caliper guides or boots.

Step 1. Removing the caliper:

1. Unscrew the two bolts securing the caliper to the bracket (usually on 17 mm). The bottom bolt may be stuck - use WD-40 and a lever.
2. Carefully lift the caliper up and secure it with wire or rope so that it does not hang on the brake hose.
3. Remove the old pads from the bracket. Please note anti-squeak plates — they need to be transferred to new pads or replaced.

Step 2. Pressing in the piston:

On Kodiaq with ESP The caliper piston is pressed in clockwise only (with simultaneous rotation). To do this:

1. Use a special squeezer or sliding pliers with flat lips.
2. Rotate the piston while pressing it evenly. If it does not budge, check whether the caliper is warped.
3. After pressing, make sure that the piston boot is not torn. If there are cracks, the caliper must be repaired.

Step 3. Installing new pads:

1. Apply a thin layer copper grease on the back of the pads (where they contact the caliper).
2. Install the pads into the bracket, making sure that they are symmetrical (the direction of movement is indicated by the arrow on the plate).
3. Clean the caliper guides and apply silicone grease (do not confuse with copper!).
4. Reinstall the caliper and tighten the bolts firmly 30–35 Nm (or “all the way” without fanaticism).

Step 4. Checking and running in:

After assembly:

• Press the brake pedal 3-5 times to straighten the pistons.
• Check the brake fluid level and add if necessary.
• Drive 100–200 meters with light braking so that the pads “get used” to the discs.

What to do if the pads squeak after replacing?

Creak of new pads on Kodiaq - a normal phenomenon in the first 100–300 km. If the noise does not go away:

1. Check whether lubricant has got onto the working surface of the pads or disc (need to be cleaned with acetone).

2. Make sure the anti-squeak plates are installed correctly.

3. For pads ATE or Textar Sometimes applying a special spray helps (for example, LIQUI MOLY Bremsen-Anti-Quietsch-Spray) on the back side.

If the squeak remains after 500 km, the pads are defective or incompatible with the discs.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when replacing brake pads. Škoda Kodiaq. Here are the most common:

1. Late replacement of brake fluid. On Kodiaq It is recommended to change it every 2 years or 30,000 km. Old fluid is hygroscopic and can cause corrosion of the caliper piston.
2. Ignoring caliper guides. If they are not lubricated or lubricated incorrectly (for example, with lithol), the caliper will jam and the pads will wear unevenly.
3. Retightening the caliper bolts. This leads to deformation of the bracket and uneven fit of the pads. Use a torque wrench or finger-tighten as hard as a wheel.
4. Installing pads without running in. For the first 200 km after replacement, avoid sharp braking - this can lead to overheating and deformation of the friction layer.

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the brake pads the brake pedal becomes soft or sinks, immediately check the system for leaks. On Kodiaq with ESP This may be a sign of air getting into the circuit or a faulty vacuum booster.

Another typical problem is incompatibility of pads and discs. For example, if sports perforated discs are installed on a car, and “soft” pads are selected (as for standard discs), they will wear out within 5–10 thousand km. Always check with your dealer to see if the pads are suitable for your disc type.

When to change brake discs?

Brake discs on Škoda Kodiaq They last an average of 80–120 thousand km, but their service life depends on driving style and the quality of the pads. Critical signs for replacement:

• 📏 The thickness of the disc is less than 22 mm (the nominal value for new ones is 25 mm).
• 🔍 Visible cracks or deep grooves (more than 1 mm).
• 🚗 Steering wheel wobble when braking (a sign of a “figure eight” disc).
• 🔥 Blue disc surface (indicates overheating).

Original wheels for Kodiaq:

• TRW (DF4835) - for versions with engines 1.5/2.0 TSI.
• ATE (24.0122-0119.1) - for 2.0 TDI.
• Brembo (09.9476.11) - premium version with perforation.

When replacing discs, be sure to change the pads, even if they are relatively new. It is also recommended to sharpen the hub (if there is corrosion on it) and use new disc mounting bolts (they are disposable!).

Running in new pads and discs

The first 200–300 km after replacing the pads (and discs, if they are new) is a critical period. At this time it happens grinding in friction materials, and your driving style will determine how long your brakes will last.

Break-in rules:

1. Avoid sudden braking. For the first 100 km, brake smoothly, with an effort of no more than 50–60% of the maximum.
2. Do not hold the brake pedal downhill as this will cause overheating.
3. After heavy braking, allow the pads to cool (drive 1–2 km without braking).
4. Do not wash the wheels for the first 2-3 days - water may get on the hot rims and cause deformation.

On Kodiaq with the system ESP After break-in it is recommended to do brake calibration. To do this:

1. Accelerate to 60 km/h on a flat road.
2. Brake sharply until you come to a complete stop (without locking the wheels).
3. Repeat 2-3 times. This will help the system adapt to the new pads.

1. Correct installation of the pads (they could have moved).

2. Condition of the brake hoses (they may be clogged).

3. The tightness of the system (are there any liquid leaks).-->

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing pads on Kodiaq

Is it possible to change the pads on only one wheel?

No, pads are always replaced in pairs on the same axle (i.e. on both front or both rear wheels). Otherwise, the braking force will be distributed unevenly, which will lead to skidding during emergency braking. An exception is if the pads on the second wheel are almost new (thickness more than 70% of the original).

How much do original pads for Kodiaq 2.0 TDI cost?

Original pads TRW with article number 5Q0 698 151 K cost about 4,500–5,300 rubles per set for one wheel (for 2026). Analogues (Brembo, ATE) will cost 2,500–3,500 rubles. Remember that for a complete replacement on both axles you will need 2 sets (left + right wheel).

Do I need to lubricate the caliper guides when replacing pads?

Yes, definitely! On Kodiaq caliper guides are lubricated special silicone grease (for example, SLIPKOTE 220-R DBC). Do not use under any circumstances Litol, Solid oil or graphite lubricant - they cannot withstand high temperatures and can jam the caliper.

How to reset the brake pad wear indicator on the dashboard?

On Škoda Kodiaq There are two ways to reset the pad wear warning:

1. Via the on-board computer menu: CAR → Service → Reset (if the pads are original with a sensor).
2. Using a diagnostic scanner (VCDS, OBDeleven) — to do this, select a block 03-Brake Electronics and perform a reset.

If the indicator does not reset, check the continuity of the wear sensor wire.

Is it possible to drive if the new pads squeak?

Creaking in the first 100–300 km is normal (especially for pads Textar or Ferodo). But if the noise does not go away longer, the reasons may be more serious:

• The pads are not compatible with the discs (for example, they are too hard for drilled discs).
• There is grease or dirt on the work surface.
• Anti-squeak plates are installed incorrectly or are missing.

In this case, it is better to remove the pads and check their condition.