Replacement of front brake pads with Škoda Fabia: instructions with photos and nuances

Replacing front brake pads with Škoda Fabia A procedure that many car owners prefer to do on their own. This not only saves up to 3,000–5,000 rubles per service station, but also allows you to control the quality of used spare parts. However, even such a “simple” operation is fraught with pitfalls: from the wrong selection of pads to a critical error in the reverse assembly of the caliper.

In this article, we will discuss the process of replacing the pads with Fabia All generations (including the restyled versions of 2015-2026), pay attention to the key differences for engines 1.4 MPI and 1.6 TDIWe also provide the latest articles of original and analog spare parts. We'll pay special attention. common error with the caliper guides, which leads to uneven wear of the pads after 5,000 km.

When to change the shoes: signs and regulations

Manufacturer Škoda Recommends checking the condition of the brake pads every time 15,000 km, and replacement should be carried out when the remaining thickness of the friction layer is less than 2–3 mm. However, the real life depends on the style of driving, the quality of spare parts and operating conditions. For example, in an urban cycle with frequent brakes of the pads on the Fabia may be worn out by 20,000–25,000 kmBut on the road they are “walking” to 40,000–50,000 km.

The need for replacement is indicated by:

• 🔊 Creaking or whistling when braking (the wear indicator touches the disc).
• 🚗 Increased braking distance or a “soft” pedal.
• 🔧 Vibration on the steering wheel when pressing the brake (may indicate deformation of the discs).
• 📏 Visual wear: cracks, chips or metal base, shining through the friction layer.

⚠️ Attention: If deep furrows or uneven wear are found on the pads, be sure to check. condition of brake discs and caliperability. Ignoring the problem will lead to "jamming" of the caliper and expensive repairs.

For accurate diagnosis, use a caliper or a special wear indicator (sold in auto shops). Measure the thickness of the pad at three points: at the edges and in the center. The difference is more 0.5 mm It indicates a malfunction of the caliper.

Which pads to choose: original vs analogues

Original pads for Škoda Fabia supplied by the company TRW (article 6R0 698 151 A for the front axle). Their average price is 2,500–3,200 rub. for a set on both wheels. However, many car owners prefer analogues from proven brands, which are often not inferior in quality, but are cheaper.

Brand	Article	Price (set)	Features
TRW (original)	GDB1446	RUB 2,800–3,500	Soft friction material, minimal wear of discs.
Brembo	P 24 034	RUB 2,200–2,700	Improved braking at high temperatures.
ATE	13.0460-7207.2	2,000–2,400 rub.	Optimal price/quality balance, low noise level.
Ferodo	FDB1446	1,800–2,200 rub.	Hard composition, suitable for aggressive driving.

When choosing analogues, pay attention to ECE R90 certification This ensures compliance with European safety standards. Avoid unmarked pads or with suspiciously low price (less) 1,200 rub. They are often made of low-quality materials that “dust” and quickly erase the discs.

Necessary tools and preparation

To replace the pads with Škoda Fabia you will need:

• 🔧 Jack and supports (or lift).
• 🔩 Socket wrenches on 13 mm and 17 mm (for guides and calipers).
• 🔧 7 mm hexagon (for some caliper models).
• 🔧 Sliding pliers or clamp to recess the caliper piston.
• 🧴 WD-40 or brake cleaning fluid (for example, Liqui Moly Bremsen-Reiniger).
• 🛠️ Medical syringe (for pumping brake fluid).
• 🧤 Gloves and safety glasses (Brake dust is harmful to health!).

Before starting work, complete the following steps:

1. Park your car on flat surface And lock the back wheels with your shoes.
2. Loosen the wheel bolts before lifting on the jack.
3. Open the hood and pump out some of the brake fluid from the tank (when the piston sinks, the level will rise).
4. Clean the caliper and brake disc of dirt wire brush.

⚠️ Attention: Never use it to clean the caliper. petrol - They're breaking the rubber seals! Only specialized means based on isopropyl alcohol.

Remove the negative terminal from the battery (to avoid short circuit)

Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir

Relax the wheel mount bolts

Put the brakes under the back wheels.

Prepare a container for draining brake fluid--

Step-by-step instructions for replacing pads

The replacement process is the same for most versions FabiaThere are some nuances for models with electronic handbrake (for example, Fabia III 2018+ year). Below is a universal instruction for a mechanical caliper.

Step 1: Removing the Wheel and Caliper

Lift the car with a jack, remove the wheel and unscrew the two bolts of the caliper mount to the brace (usually). 17 mm). Carefully hang the caliper on a wire or rope, without disconnecting the brake hose!

Step 2: Removing Old Pads

Remove the spring clips (if equipped) and pull out the pads. Please note wear-indicator On the new shoe it must be installed on the same side. Check the brake disc: if it has deep furrows (more) 0.5 mm), it will have to be drilled or replaced.

Step 3: Recessing the caliper piston

To install new, thicker pads, you need to drown the piston in the caliper. For this:

1. Remove the brake fluid reservoir cap.
2. Use a sliding passage or sliding passage to slowly press the piston. Don't try too hard - it could damage the seals!
3. For models with electronic handbrake you will need a diagnostic scanner (for example, VCDS) to drop the piston.

Step 4: Install New Pads

Apply before installation thin layer of high temperature grease (for example, Slipkote 220-R DBC) on caliper guides and back side of the pads (where they are in contact with the snail). Install the pads, making sure that the wear indicator is facing the brake disc.

Step 5: Assembly and Testing

Secure the caliper, install the wheel and lower the car. Press the brake pedal several times until the piston is in working position. Check the brake fluid level and add if necessary.

What to do if the caliper piston does not retract?

If the piston is not moving even under pressure, it may indicate:

1. Corrosion inside the caliper - try to gently tap it with a hammer through a wooden spacer.

2. Souring of the sealing ring - will require dismantling and cleaning of the caliper.

3. GTC malfunction (main brake cylinder) - in this case, you need a diagnosis for SRT.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when replacing pads. Here are the most critical ones:

1. Ignoring caliper guides. If you do not lubricate or replace the guides, the caliper will be wedged, which will lead to uneven wear of the pads and overheating of the disc. Lubrication should be exclusively based on copper or ceramics - ordinary lithole or graphite is not suitable!
2. Incorrect installation of the wear indicator. If the sensor is mounted on the inside of the disc, it will not contact the surface and will not warn of critical wear.
3. Forgetting to bleed the brakes after the replacement. This is true if when the piston drowns in the tank air bubbles appeared. Pumping is mandatory!
4. Use old spring fixers. Over time, they lose elasticity and do not hold the pads, which leads to rattles and vibrations.

Another typical problem is disc-incompatibility. For example, if you install a sleeve for Fabia II on Fabia IIIThey may not fit in the shape or composition of the friction material. Always check the articles with VIN number vehicle catalogue ETKA or Elcats.

Maintenance of the braking system after replacement

Replacement of pads is only part of the work to maintain the brake system in good condition. To extend the life of new parts, follow these recommendations:

• 📅 Every 10,000 km Clean the calipers and guides from dirt.
• 🔧 Once every 2 years Replace the brake fluid (it is hygroscopic and loses its properties).
• 🚘 Avoid holding the brake pedal for long periods of time at traffic lights - this overheats the pads.
• 🛑 Check the brake discs. The scorching (permissible value is no more) 0.05 mm).

If after the replacement, the shoes appeared extraneous sounds (crying, knocking), the reasons may be as follows:

Symptom	Possible reason	Solution
Creaking noise when braking	Low-quality friction material or the absence of anti-script plates.	Install plates or apply anti-scrip paste.
Knocking in the caliper	Wear or absence of fixing springs.	Replace the springs (part no. 6R0 615 121).
Vibration on the steering wheel	Deformation of the brake disc or uneven wear of the pads.	Rinse the disc or replace it.

FAQ: Frequent questions about replacing pads with Škoda Fabia

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

No! Pads are always changed in pairs on the same axis (i.e., on both front wheels at the same time. Otherwise, the braking force will be distributed unevenly, which will lead to skids during emergency braking.

How long does it take to replace pads?

If you have the tools and experience - 1–1.5 hours on both wheels. A beginner may need up to 3–4 hoursEspecially if the squirrels are squirted.

Do I need to bleed the brakes after replacing the pads?

Pumping is only required if you disconnected the brake hose Or the system got air. If you just drowned the piston of the caliper, pumping is not necessary.

Which pads are better - ceramic or metal?

Ceramic (ATE Ceramic) wear less and dust less, but work less at low temperatures. Metallic (metallic)Ferodo Premier) cheaper and more efficient in cold weather, but faster to wash the disks. For Fabia in the urban cycle is optimal semi-metallic pads.

What should I do if the brake pedal becomes soft after replacing the pads?

This is a sign air entering the system. The brakes must be pumped starting from the farthest wheel from the main brake cylinder (on the Fabia Order: rear right → rear left → front right → front left.