Replacing front brake pads on a ŠKODA Octavia TUR: instructions for self-repair

Replacing front brake pads with ŠKODA Octavia TUR - a procedure that many car owners prefer to perform on their own. This not only saves the budget (services charge from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles for such work), but also allows you to control the quality of the spare parts used. However, the braking system is a critical component and mistakes cannot be tolerated. In this article we will figure out how to choose the right pads for Octavia TUR (including restyled versions A5 FL and A7), what tools will be needed, and we will reveal all the nuances of the process - from removing the caliper to resetting the wear sensor.

Feature Octavia TUR (especially with motors 1.4 TSI, 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI) - use of brake mechanisms TRW or ATE depending on the year of manufacture. For example, on models before 2013 there are often pads with the article number 1ZD 698 151, and after facelift - 5Q0 698 151 A. We will dwell on the differences in detail and give recommendations on choosing analogues from Brembo, Ferodo and Textar, which are not inferior to the original in terms of resource, but are 30–50% cheaper.

When do you need to change the front brake pads on a ŠKODA Octavia TUR

The manufacturer recommends checking the thickness of the pads every 15,000 km, but their actual service life depends on driving style and operating conditions. Here are the key signs it's time to intervene:

• 🚨 Creaking or whistling when braking - often indicates wear of the friction layer to 2–3 mm (critical minimum). On Octavia TUR with a wear indicator on the dashboard the indicator lights up BRAKE PAD WEAR.
• 🔧 Increased brake pedal travel or its vibration - may indicate uneven wear of the pads or deformation of the brake discs.
• 💨 Dust on wheels - if it has become darker and more abundant, this is a sign of active destruction of the friction material.
• 📏 Visual wear: You can see through the wheel spokes that the pad thickness is thinner 5 mm (for Octavia TUR optimal replacement for 3–4 mm).

On models with electronic wear sensor (installed on the rear block from the inside) replacement is required immediately after the error appears 03425 or 03426 in the block ABS. Ignoring the signal can lead to damage to the brake disc, the price of which is 3-5 times higher than that of the pads.

⚠️ Attention: On Octavia TUR with motor 2.0 TDI (140–184 hp) front pads wear out 20–30% faster due to the increased weight of the vehicle. If you frequently drive with a trailer or on mountain roads, reduce the inspection interval to 10,000 km.

Which pads to choose for the ŠKODA Octavia TUR: original vs analogues

Original pads for Octavia TUR supplies VW Group under the articles:

• 1ZD 698 151 — for models up to 2013 (including A5 FL);
• 5Q0 698 151 A - for restyled versions A7 (2013–2020).

The cost of the original is from 3,500 to 5,000 rubles per set per axle. However, many car owners choose analogues that are not inferior in quality, but are 30–50% cheaper. The table below shows the tested options:

Brand	Article	Compatibility	Price (set)	Features
TRW	GDB1446	All versions Octavia TUR	2 800–3 200 ₽	OEM supplier for VW Group, soft friction material
ATE	13.0460-7008.2	Until 2013	3 000–3 500 ₽	Increased wear resistance, but may creak during the first 200 km
Brembo	P 24 036	A5 FL, A7	2 500–2 900 ₽	Optimal for aggressive riding style
Ferodo	FDB1446	All versions	2 200–2 600 ₽	Low dust levels but shorter lifespan
Textar	2463501	A7 (2013+)	2 700–3 100 ₽	Good price/quality, but may require grinding in

When choosing analogues, pay attention to friction material composition:

• 🔹 Ceramic (Ferodo Premier, Brembo Ceramic) - generate less dust, but are more expensive and perform worse at low temperatures.
• 🔹 Semi-metallic (ATE, TRW) - optimal balance of price and efficiency for Octavia TUR.
• 🔹 Organic - cheap, but wear out quickly (not recommended).

⚠️ Attention: On Octavia TUR with the system ESP 8.1 (installed on models after 2015) do not use pads with metal inserts - this may cause false alarms ABS.

Required tools and supplies

To replace the front pads with ŠKODA Octavia TUR you will need:

Lift or jack with stops (minimum lifting capacity 2 tons)

Wheelbrace (size 17 mm for Octavia TUR)

Socket wrench 13 mm and 15 mm for caliper

Hexagon 7 mm (for guides)

Pliers or a special puller for the caliper piston

Hammer and wooden spacer (for pressing in the piston)

WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant

High temperature caliper grease (ATE Plastilube or TRW PFG110)

New pads (set per axle)

Brake fluid DOT 4 (top up if necessary)

Medical syringe (for pumping liquid from the tank)

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Additionally you may need:

• 🔧 Wear sensor reset scanner (for example, VCDS or OBDeleven), if on yours Octavia TUR an electronic sensor is installed.
• 📱 Phone with flashlight — for illuminating hard-to-reach places (for example, caliper guides).
• 🧤 Gloves — Brake dust contains asbestos and is harmful to the skin.

If you are planning to replace and brake discs, additionally prepare:

• 🔨 Socket wrench 18 mm to unscrew the hub nut.
• 🔧 Bearing puller (if the disk is “stuck” to the hub).

On Octavia TUR with motor 1.8 TSI (180 hp) larger diameter brake discs are used 312 mm (instead of standard 288 mm). The pads for these versions have the article number 5Q0 698 151 B - don’t get confused when ordering!

Step-by-step instructions for replacing front pads

The process of replacing pads ŠKODA Octavia TUR takes 1.5–2 hours if you have experience. Follow the instructions strictly in order:

1. Preparing the car

Place the machine on a flat surface, turn on 1st gear (or P for automatic) and tighten the handbrake. Raise the front end with a jack and jack the rear wheels. Never work under a car that is supported only by a jack!

Remove the wheel by unscrewing the bolts counterclockwise. On Octavia TUR wheel bolt tightening torque - 120 Nm.

2. Removing the caliper

Clean the caliper and guides from dirt with a brush. Unscrew the two caliper mounting bolts (usually 13 mm or 15 mm) and carefully remove it by hanging it on a wire or hook so as not to damage the brake hose. Do not disconnect the hose!

Remove the old pads. If they “stick”, lightly tap them with a hammer through a wooden spacer.

3. Recessing the caliper piston

Before installing new pads, you must push in the caliper piston back into the cylinder. To do this:

1. Open the hood and remove the brake fluid reservoir cap.
2. Use a special puller or pliers to slowly push the piston in. Don't use excessive force!
3. If the piston does not recess, unscrew the reservoir cap and add fluid (when recessed, its level will rise).

Important: On Octavia TUR with the system ESP before recessing the piston it is necessary turn on the ignition (but do not start the engine) to open the valve ABS. Otherwise, the piston may not go all the way.

4. Installing new pads

Before installing new pads:

• 🧴 Apply high temperature grease on the caliper guides and the back side of the pads (but not on the friction layer!).
• 🔄 Make sure spring clips (if any) are installed correctly - they prevent the pads from rattling.

Install the pads in reverse order: first the inner one, then the outer one. On models with wear sensor do not forget to transfer it from the old pad to the new one (or replace it with a new one if the sensor is damaged).

5. Assembly and testing

Secure the caliper back by tightening the bolts to torque 30 Nm. Install the wheel and lower the car. Press the brake pedal several times until the pads rub against the discs.

Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir and add if necessary. First 200 km Avoid sudden braking - the pads need time to break in.

Nuances of replacement on restyled versions (A7)

On Octavia TUR after 2013 (A7) there are several features:

• 🔧 Changed caliper mounting - instead of a hexagon 7 mm used asterisk T30 for guides.
• 📶 Electronic wear sensor integrated into the block (on older models it was separate). Required when replacing reset through diagnostics.
• 🚗 Enlarged brake discs on versions with motor 2.0 TDI (184 hp) — pads from standard versions will not fit!

Also on A7 a common problem with souring of the caliper guides. If they are not lubricated, the caliper may seize, causing the pads to wear unevenly. When replacing, be sure to:

1. Remove the guides and clean them of old grease.
2. Apply new high temperature grease (for example, TRW PFG110).
3. Check the integrity of the boots - if they are torn, replace them.

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

If the pedal falls out or becomes too soft, this is a sign air entering the brake system. It is necessary to bleed the brakes, starting with the wheel furthest from the master cylinder (on Octavia TUR order: rear right → front left → rear left → front right). For bleeding you will need an assistant or a special vacuum pump.

How to reset the brake pad wear sensor

On ŠKODA Octavia TUR with an electronic wear sensor (installed on models after 2010) after replacing the pads, you must reset the error in the block ABS. You can do this in two ways:

Method 1: Via diagnostic scanner (VCDS, OBDeleven)

1. Connect the scanner to the connector OBD-II (located under the steering wheel).
2. Select block 03 — ABS Brakes.
3. Go to Basic Settings (Basic Settings) and select a group 004.
4. Click Go! — the sensor will reset automatically.

Method 2: Manually (for models without a scanner)

On some versions Octavia TUR (until 2013) reset is done like this:

1. Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).
2. Press and hold the button SET on the instrument panel.
3. Turn the key to position ON and hold the button 10 secondsuntil the indicator goes off.

If after reset there is an error BRAKE PAD WEAR left, check:

• 🔌 Sensor wiring integrity — often rubs against the caliper.
• 🔧 Correct installation of the sensor block (must be internal).

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

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

• ❌ Unlubricated caliper guides — leads to wedging and uneven wear. Always use high temperature grease!
• ❌ Forgot to recess the piston — the new pads simply won’t fit into place. If the piston does not recess, check the brake fluid level in the reservoir.
• ❌ Left and right pads mixed up - on Octavia TUR with a wear indicator, the sensor should be on the inside.
• ❌ The wear sensor was not reset — the error on the panel will light up even if the pads are new.
• ❌ Used low quality lubricant - regular Litol-24 or Solid oil cannot withstand high temperatures and burn out.

Another typical problem is squeaking pads after replacement. Causes and solutions:

Reason for the squeak	Solution
Grinding in new pads	Drive 200–300 km without heavy braking
Metal inserts in pads	Use anti-squeak plates or backside lubricant
Brake disc wear (shoulder)	Grinding or replacing discs
Dirt getting between the pad and the caliper	Remove the pads, clean the seats

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the pads with Octavia TUR with motor 2.0 TDI Vibration appears when braking, check brake disc runout. Acceptable value - no more 0.05 mm. If exceeded, the disc must be sharpened or replaced.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing pads on the ŠKODA Octavia TUR

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

No! Pads are always changing 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 the car pulling to the side when braking.

How long do brake pads last on an Octavia TUR?

Service life depends on driving style and conditions:

• 🚗 City mode (frequent braking): 20,000–30,000 km.
• 🛣️ Route (rare braking): up to 50,000 km.
• 🏔️ Mountain roads or driving with a trailer: 10,000–15,000 km.

On Octavia TUR with motor 1.8 TSI The pads wear out faster due to the more powerful braking mechanism.

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

Brake bleeding required only if you disconnected the brake hose or the fluid level in the reservoir has dropped below the minimum. In other cases, it is enough to press the brake pedal several times so that the caliper piston takes the working position.

What brake fluid should I fill in Octavia TUR?

Manufacturer recommends DOT 4 with a boiling point not lower 230°C. Optimal options:

• ATE Typ 200 (article 03.9902-0512.2);
• Motul DOT 4;
• Liqui Moly Bremsenflussigkeit DOT 4.

System volume - 0.5–0.7 l (depending on model). It is recommended to do a complete fluid change every 2 years or 40,000 km.

Is it possible to install ceramic pads on the Octavia TUR?

Yes, but with reservations:

• ✅ Pros: They generate less dust, last longer, and work better at high temperatures.
• ❌ Cons: They brake worse when cold (the first 5–10 km after the start), and are 30–50% more expensive.

The best choice for Octavia TUR — semi-metallic pads (ATE, TRW) if you drive mostly in the city. Ceramics (Brembo Ceramic) should be considered for frequent trips along the highway or mountain serpentines.