Vehicle operation Skoda Fabia inevitably leads to wear of the brake system elements. Rear brakes, especially on drum or disc versions, require periodic maintenance. Ignoring signs of wear can damage the brake rotors and reduce stopping performance.
The replacement process is not overly complicated, but has its own technical features, depending on the year of manufacture and body type. Correct installation of new parts guarantees safety and the absence of extraneous sounds when braking. In this material we will analyze in detail all stages of work, from preparing tools to final inspection.
Wear diagnostics and component selection
Before proceeding with disassembly, you need to make sure that replacement is necessary. The main symptom is a characteristic squeak or squeak when you press the brake pedal. On some models Skoda Fabia Wear sensors are installed that activate the corresponding indicator on the dashboard.
A visual inspection through the wheel spokes will also help assess the condition. The thickness of the friction lining should not be less than 2-3 mm. If you see metal rubbing against metal, replace brake pads is required immediately, otherwise the disk itself will suffer.
- π Check for wear sensors on old pads before purchasing new ones.
- π οΈ Compare the article numbers of original spare parts with analogues from trusted brands.
- π Measure the thickness of the friction layer with a caliper for accuracy.
The selection of spare parts plays a key role in the longevity of the system. Original from Skoda often produced in the same factories as brands like ATE, TRW or Textar. However, there are more affordable analogues that show decent results when installed correctly.
β οΈ Attention: When purchasing rear pads, be sure to check the type of brake system. In early generations Skoda Fabia drum mechanisms are used, and on newer ones - disk mechanisms with an electric handbrake.
If you choose non-original parts, pay attention to the composition of the friction material. Organic compounds are softer and generate less dust, but wear off faster. Ceramic or semi-metallic options are more durable, but can be noisier at low temperatures.
Necessary tools and preparation
To carry out the work you will need a standard mechanic's kit, but taking into account the specifics of the suspension Skoda Fabia. Be sure to prepare a jack and reliable stands for the car, as working under the car without fixation is dangerous. Wheel nuts are often over-tightened.
- π§ Socket wrenches and sockets for 13, 15, 17 (for calipers and guides).
- πͺ Jack and safety stands (don't rely on hydraulics alone).
- 𧴠Brake fluid and brake cleaner in an aerosol can.
Pay special attention to the tools used to press in the caliper piston. If you have a version with a mechanical handbrake, an ordinary mechanic's tool will suffice. But on models with an electric handbrake, a special scanner or mechanical adapter will be required to rotate the piston.
β οΈ Caution: Never use a pry bar or flathead screwdriver to press in the piston on vehicles equipped with an electronic handbrake without special maintenance. This can lead to failure of the electric motor.
Also prepare caliper guide lube and brake cleaner. Do not use regular motor oil or graphite lubricant where the manufacturer does not require it. This can cause the rubber seals to swell and the caliper to jam.
The process of replacing disc brake pads
First you need to remove the wheel and secure the car. Unscrew the bolts securing the caliper to the bracket. Usually these are two guide bolts at the end. After this, carefully remove the caliper, hanging it on a wire so as not to damage the brake hose.
Remove the old pads from the bracket. Pay attention to the presence of anti-squeak plates and spring clips. If they are warped or worn, they should be replaced or carefully straightened before installing new parts. Cleaning the bracket from dirt and rust is mandatory.
- π§Ή Clean the bracket seats with a wire brush.
- π§ Apply special high temperature grease to the guides.
- π© Make sure the caliper piston is completely recessed into the body.
Installation of new pads should take place without excessive effort. If they fit tightly, check the size and absence of burrs on the bracket. After installing the caliper in place, tighten the guide bolts to the recommended torque. Usually this value is about 25-30 Nm, but it is better to check in the service documentation.
Check the condition of the brake disc. If there are deep risks or wear on it, replacing the pads should be combined with replacing the discs. Otherwise, the new pads will wear out quickly and braking performance will remain low.
If on your Skoda Fabia An electric handbrake drive is installed; the process of retracting the piston requires a special approach. Simply pressing it in by force will not work, since there is a screw pair inside that blocks movement in the absence of power.
You need to connect the diagnostic scanner and activate the pad replacement mode in the brake system menu. This will unlock the electric motor and allow the piston to extend or retract. Without a scanner, you can use special mechanical adapters that simulate motor rotation.
- Drums
- Disc with manual cable
- Electrically driven disc
The nuances of working with drum brakes
On older versions or basic configurations Skoda Fabia Drum brakes are installed at the rear. Their maintenance differs from disk systems. First you need to remove the drum, which often sticks due to corrosion. Use a hammer to hit the spacer or special pullers.
After removing the drum, you will see a mechanism with two shoes, a spacer bar and springs. Pay attention to the condition of the adjustment mechanism. The handbrake should have a small stroke, which is adjusted with a nut on the spacer bar.
- π© Inspect the springs for stretching or tearing.
- 𧽠Clean the brake pads from dust and dirt.
- π§ Check the condition of the parking brake cables.
Installing new pads requires care with the springs. Use special pliers to compress the springs to avoid damaging your fingers or dropping parts inside the mechanism. Assembly is carried out in the reverse order, but with the obligatory adjustment of the gap between the pads and the drum.
After assembly, be sure to check the operation of the handbrake. The lever should move up 4-7 clicks. If the stroke is too much or too little, adjust the cable tension under the vehicle or through the mechanism inside the drum.
βοΈ Preparing drum brakes
Also check the condition of the working cylinder for fluid leaks.
Typical replacement mistakes
Many owners make the mistake of installing new pads without replacing the guides or lubrication. This causes the caliper to stop moving and the pads to wear unevenly. On one side, the pad wears out faster, which causes beating and vibration.
Another common mistake is using the wrong lubricant. Regular lithium grease or WD-40 are not suitable for friction contacts and seals. Use only specialized compounds indicated on the packaging, such as ceramic lubricants or copper pastes (where permitted).
β οΈ Attention: Do not lubricate the working surface of the pads or the disc! Lubricant is applied only to the back of the pads, guides and metal-to-metal contact points.
Sometimes there is a noise after the replacement. This may be due to the absence of anti-script plates or their improper installation. Also, the sound can occur due to dirt entering the mechanism or poor-quality material of the friction lining.
If you havenβt checked your brake fluid level before you start work, a transfusion may occur. When the piston is pressed, the level of liquid in the tank rises. If the tank is full, the liquid can spill over to the engine or electronic components.
Another critical mistake is ignoring the state of the anthers. The damaged anther on the guide allows moisture and dirt to penetrate inside, which quickly leads to a jamming. When replacing the pads, always inspect the anthers and change the remixes if necessary.
Check after installation
After the work is completed and the wheels are installed, do not rush to go on the road. First, pump the brake pedal in place. It should be solid, without failure. If the pedal is soft, there may be air in the system and a pumping will be required.
The first trips should be conducted in a gentle mode. Avoid heavy braking during the first 100-200 kilometers. This is necessary for lapping friction linings to discs or drums. Sharp braking immediately after installation can lead to overheating and deformation.
- π Ride at low speed, checking the effectiveness of braking.
- π Listen to outside sounds when you press the pedal.
- π‘οΈ Feel the discs after stopping (be careful, they are hot!).
If you feel the car pulling to the side when braking, it is possible that the caliper is not moving freely or one of the pads is installed incorrectly. In this case, it is necessary to re-check all the nodes and, if necessary, re-disassemble.
Also check the handbrake operation. It must securely hold the car on a slope. If in doubt, adjust the tension of the cable or check the condition of the mechanism.
Donβt forget to reset the wear sensor error if it has been activated. In some models Skoda Fabia This is done through the onboard computer menu or with the help of diagnostic equipment. Otherwise, the indicator will burn constantly.
What to do if the brake pedal fails?
If the pedal fails, there is air in the system. It is necessary to pump the brake system, starting from the farthest wheel from the main cylinder. Usually the order: back right, back left, front right, front left.
Before starting work, take a picture of the location of springs and fixers on old pads. This will help not to make a mistake when assembling a complex mechanism of drum brakes.
Comparison of brake pad materials
The choice of the material of the friction lining affects not only the braking distance, but also the comfort and durability of the discs. Organic pads (NAO) are made from resin, rubber and fiberglass. They work quietly and do not dust, but quickly wear off when driving aggressively.
Semi-metallic compositions contain metal shavings. They are more durable and better at removing heat, but can be noisy and dusty. In addition, they can wear brake discs faster due to the abrasive action of the metal.
| Material type | Pros | Cons | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organic (NAO) | Quiet, not dusty, cheap | Fast wear, poor work when overheating | For a quiet city ride |
| Semi-metallic | Long-lasting, high heat transfer | Noise, dust, wear and tear of discs | For mixed cycle and track |
| Ceramic | Stability, no dust, quiet. | High price, hardness | For premium exploitation |
Ceramic pads are considered the best option for a set of characteristics, but they are much more expensive. They are practically dust-free and provide stable braking even at high temperatures. For Skoda Fabia This is a great choice if your budget allows.
Note the DOT and ECE markings. High-quality shoes have safety certificates. Avoid fakes without labeling, as they may not withstand the loads and lead to an emergency.
It is important to take into account the climatic conditions. In winter, some formulations may lose effectiveness at low temperatures until they warm up. For cold climates, it is better to choose specialized formulations adapted to low temperatures.
The correct choice of the material of the pads depends on the driving style and operating conditions. For a quiet ride, organic compositions are suitable, and for an active one, semi-metallic or ceramic.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
How long do the rear brake pads go on the Ε KODA Fabia?
The resource of the rear pads depends on the driving style and operating conditions. On average, they serve from 40,000 to 80,000 kilometers. With frequent trips around the city with traffic jams, the resource may be less due to constant friction.
Is it possible to change only the front or only the rear pads?
Technically possible, but experts recommend changing them in pairs on one axis. If you change only one side, it can lead to uneven braking and skidding of the car. The wear on one axle should be the same.
Do I need to change brake discs and pads?
It depends on the state of the discs. If there are deep risks, production or beat, replacement is required. If the disc is in perfect condition, it is enough to replace only the pads. However, for maximum efficiency, both are often changed.
How do you know when it's time to change the brake fluid?
It is recommended to change the brake fluid every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers, even if the mileage is small. The liquid is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture, which reduces the boiling point and can lead to boiling under intense braking.
What should I do if I hear a squeaking sound after replacing the pads?
Scream can be caused by several reasons: lack of lubrication on the back of the pads, dirt on the disc, lack of anti-script plates or the need to lap. In most cases, cleaning and lubrication of contact surfaces, or repeated laundry, helps.