Replacement of rear brake pads on ŠKODA Rapid: detailed instructions with photos and videos

Rear brake pads on ŠKODA Rapid Consumables that require regular replacement every 30-50,000. km (depending on driving style and operating conditions). Ignoring wear leads to damage to brake discs, reduced braking efficiency and the risk of accidents. In the car service, this work will be taken from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles, but with the tool and minimal skills, it is easy to perform it yourself.

In this article, a detailed guide to replacing the rear brake pads with Rapid (including models with ESP and electronic handbrake), a list of necessary tools, step-by-step photos and videos, as well as answers to frequent questions. We have taken into account all the nuances: from the removal of the drum (on versions with drum brakes) to the correct installation of new pads and pumping the system.

When to change the rear pads on the ŠKODA Rapid: 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: aggressive acceleration and sharp braking reduce the life of the pads by 30–40%.
• 🏙️ Operating conditions: in the city (with frequent stops) the pads wear out faster than on the highway.
• 🔧 Quality of spare parts: original pads TRW or ATE last longer than inexpensive analogues.
• 🌧️ Climate: humidity and salt on roads in winter accelerate the corrosion of brake mechanisms.

To determine the wear of the shoe can be according to the following signs:

• 🔊 Creaking or whistling when braking (the wear indicator is triggered - a metal plate that rubs against the disk).
• 📉 Increased braking distance - The car stops slower.
• 🛑 Vibration or beat on the steering wheel or brake pedal (may indicate deformation of the disc).
• 🔧 Visual wear: the thickness of the friction layer of the shoe is less than 2-3 mm (normal - 8-12 mm).

⚠️ AttentionIf there are deep cracks or chips on the pads, they should be replaced immediately - even if the layer thickness is still acceptable. Such defects reduce the effectiveness of braking and can damage the disc.

On ŠKODA Rapid with rear disc brakes (Models after 2017) the pads wear evenly, and on versions with drum brakes (until 2017) – adjustment of the parking brake after replacement is more often required.

What shoes to choose for ŠKODA Rapid: original vs analogues

Original pads for Rapid supplies VW Group under the articles:

• 🔧 Disc brakes (since 2017): 6R0 698 451 A (set on axle).
• 🛠️ Drum brakes (until 2017): 6R0 698 651 (set on axle).

The cost of the original is from 2,500 to 4,000 rubles per axle. If the budget is limited, you can consider qualitative analogues:

Brand	Article (disk)	Article (drum)	Price per axle, rub.	Features
TRW	GDB1446	GDB3406	1 800–2 200	Soft, little dust, suitable for urban driving.
ATE	13.0460-7164.2	13.0468-0121.2	2 000–2 500	Hard, durable, but can creak.
Brembo	P 24 064	P 25 054	2 300–2 800	Sports-oriented, high heat resistance.
Ferodo	FDB1446	FDB3406	1 500–1 900	Budget option, medium resource.

On models with electronic handbrake (EPB) after replacing the pads, the system is required to adapt through a diagnostic scanner (for example, the system is adapted to the system). VCDS or OBDeleven). Without this, the handbrake may not work properly.

When choosing pads, pay attention to:

• 🔍 Certification: there must be a sign ECE R90 (European safety standard).
• 📦 Complete set: the set should have pads, guide plates and lubricant for calipers.
• 📏 Compatibility: specify the year of manufacture and the type of braking system (disk or drumming).

Tools and materials for replacing rear pads

The following set will be required for the work:

• 🔧 Jack and supports (or lift).
• 🔩 Balloon wrench for removing wheels.
• 🛠️ Socket heads 13, 15 and 17 mm.
• 🔨 Hammer and punch (for drum brakes).
• 🔗 adjustable wrench or pliers for working with the caliper.
• 🧴 Guide lubricant (for example, TRW PFG110).
• 🧹 Wire brush and degreaser (for example, Brake Cleaner).
• 🔋 Diagnostic scanner (for models with EPB).

If on your Rapid installed drum brakesYou will need additionally:

• 🔧 Puller for tension springs.
• 🛠️ Adjustment screwdriver for the parking brake.

⚠️ AttentionDo not use WD-40 to lubricate the caliper guides! This liquid cannot withstand high temperatures and can lead to jamming of the mechanism. Apply only specialized lubricants based on copper or ceramics.

Before starting work:

1. Park the car on a flat surface and fix the front wheels with stops.
2. Loosen the rear wheel nuts (but do not remove them completely).
3. Lift the car with a jack and set up supports.
4. Remove the wheel and clean the brake mechanism of dirt.

Reduce wheel nuts | Lift the car to the jack and set the supports | Remove the wheel and clean the caliper / drum | Check the level of brake fluid (do not add!)->

Step-by-step instructions: replacing rear pads on disc brakes

This instruction is suitable for ŠKODA Rapid with rear disc brakes (2017 and newer). In the models with electronic handbrake (EPB) After the replacement, the system will need to be adapted.

Step 1: Removing the caliper

1. Unscrew the two bolts of the caliper attachment to the bracket (usually under the head by 13 or 15 mm).
2. Carefully hang the caliper on a wire or rope so as not to damage the brake hose.
3. Remove the old pads from the guides.

Step 2. Inspection and preparation

• Check the condition of the brake disc: if it has deep grooves or cracks, replace the disc.
• Clean the guide calipers with a metal brush and apply a new lubricant.
• Drown the caliper piston back into the cylinder. For this:
• On models without EPB Use a movable key or a special tool.
• On models with EPB - the piston is screwed clockwise (a key for the piston is required) EPB).

Step 3. Installing new pads

1. Install new pads in the guides, observing the position (usually they have marks on them). INNER and OUTER).
2. Then, put the stains on the sleeves and put them on the sleeves.
3. Return the caliper to place and tighten the bolts with a moment of 25-30 N·m.

Step 4. Completion of work

• Install the wheel and lower the car.
• Press the brake pedal several times until the pads are in place.
• Check the level of brake fluid (if necessary add).

⚠️ Attention: On models with EPB After replacing the pads, the handbrake is adapted through a diagnostic scanner. Without this, the handbrake may not hold or block the wheels spontaneously.

How to adapt EPB after replacing the pads?

1. Connect the scanner (for example) VCDS or OBDeleven) to the diagnostic connector.

2. Select a block 53 – Parking Brake.

3. Start the procedure Basic Settings → Service Mode.

4. Follow the instructions on the screen (usually you need to press the brake pedal and hold the handbrake button).

5. After completion, check the handbrake on the rise (slant at least 20%).

Replacement of rear pads on drum brakes (until 2017)

On ŠKODA Rapid The first generations (up to 2017) were installed behind the drum brakes. Replacing them is more difficult than disc ones, but is also feasible in garage conditions.

Step 1. Removal of the drum

1. Remove the wheel and clean the drum of dirt.
2. Unscrew the guide studs (if any) or gently knock the drum with a hammer through a wooden pad.
3. If the drum is not removed, check if it is pressed by the parking brake (relax the handbar cable).

Step 2. Dismantling old pads

• Remove the rod springs with a removable or passageways.
• Disconnect the parking brake cable from the lever of the pad.
• Remove the pads and inspect the working cylinder for leaks.

Step 3. Installing new pads

1. Apply lubrication to the contact points of the pad with the support shield.
2. Install new pads and fasten them with springs.
3. Connect the parking brake cable and adjust its tension (wheels should be blocked with 3-4 clicks of the lever).

Step 4: Reassembly

• Set the drum in place and fix it.
• Check the brakes by pressing the pedal several times.
• Adjust the parking brake (if necessary).

After replacing the pads on the drum brakes for the first 100-200 km, avoid sharp braking so that the pads are worn to the drum.

Frequent mistakes when replacing rear brake pads and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to malfunctions of the brake system. Here are the most common of them:

• 🔧 Incorrect pad installation: Interior and exterior pads are confused (they usually have tags on them) IN/OUT).
• 🧴 Lack of lubrication on the guides: leads to creaking and uneven wear.
• 🔩 Overtightened caliper bolts: may cause deformation or jamming.
• 🚗 Unbleeded brake system after replacement (especially in the case of models with EPB).
• 🔋 Ignoring EPB adaptationThe handbrake may not work or block the wheels on the move.

How to avoid problems:

• 📋 Follow the instructions And don't skip steps (e.g., drown the caliper piston before installing new pads).
• 🔍 Check the status of the discs/drumsIf they are worn out, replace them with pads.
• 🧪 Check the brake fluid levelWhen the piston sinks, it will rise, do not add liquid in advance.

⚠️ AttentionIf after replacing the pad brake pedal became soft or fails, immediately pump the brake system! It's a sign of air entering the circuit.

On models with EPB after replacing the pads the error may come on P1750 (Inadequate electronic handbrake failure). To reset it, connect a diagnostic scanner and reset the adaptations.

How much does it cost to replace the rear pads on the ŠKODA Rapid in the service?

The cost of work in the service depends on the type of brake system and the region:

Type of work	Price, rub.	Time, hours	Notes
Replacement of rear pads (disc brakes)	1 500–2 500	0.8–1.2	Not taking into account the EPB adaptation.
Replacement of rear pads (drum brakes)	2 000–3 000	1.5–2	Includes adjustment of the parking brake.
EPB adaptation	500–1 000	0.3–0.5	A scanner is required (e.g., VCDS).
Replacement of brake discs (rear axle)	2 500–4 000	1.5–2.5	It is recommended to change with the shoes.

You can save by buying shoes yourself (the service often takes a markup of 20-30%) and providing them to the master. Also, many service stations offer discounts for work in complex maintenance (for example, replacing pads + discs + brake fluid).

If you decide to change the shoes yourself, consider:

• 💰 SavingsSelf-replacement costs 2-3 times cheaper (only the cost of spare parts).
• ⏱️ Time: For the first time, the process can take 3-4 hours (with drum brakes - up to 5 hours).
• 🔧 ToolIf you do not have a spring or scanner for EPBYou'll have to buy or rent.

FAQ: Frequent questions about replacing the rear pads on the ŠKODA Rapid

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

Nope! The pads are always changed in pairs on one axis (left and right wheel). Otherwise, the braking force will be distributed unevenly, which will lead to the car being pulled aside during braking.

How to check if the pads are worn without removing the wheel?

On disc brakes, you can look through the spokes of the wheel - if the friction layer is thinner than 2-3 mm, the pads need to be changed. Also, pay attention to creaking or reducing the effectiveness of braking. On drum brakes visual inspection without removing the drum is impossible.

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

Pumping is only required if you have disconnected the brake hoses or cylinders. If you just changed the pads and drowned the piston caliper, pumping is not necessary. However, after replacement, check the brake pedal - it should be elastic, without failures.

What happens if you don’t adapt the EPB after replacing the pads?

The electronic handbrake can work incorrectly: do not keep the car on a slope, spontaneously block the wheels on the move or make an error on the dashboard. In some cases, this leads to wear of pads for 1–2 thousand. km.

Which pads are better - original or analogues?

Original pads (TRW or ATE under the brand VW) are guaranteed in size and composition but are more expensive. Quality analogues (arts.Brembo, Ferodo) may be cheaper with a comparable resource. The main thing is to avoid cheap no-name pads that wear out and dust quickly.