Rear brake pads on Ε KODA Octavia Tour β€” a consumable that requires attention every 30–50 thousand kilometers. Their wear directly affects safety: an extended braking distance, vibrations during braking or squeaking are the first signals that it’s time to act. A car service center will charge from 2,500 to 5,000 rubles for a replacement (depending on the type of brakes), but if you have the tools and patience, you can carry out the procedure yourself in 1–2 hours.

In this article we will analyze all stages of replacement β€” from preparation to final inspection. We took into account the nuances for different generations Octavia Tour (including restyled versions with 1Z3, 5E and NX platforms), as well as features of disc and drum brakes. If your machine is equipped electronic handbrake (EPB) β€” you will find a separate section with instructions for resetting the service mode.

Which pads to choose: original vs analogues

Original rear pads for Octavia Tour supplies TRW (article 6Q0 698 451 for disc brakes or 1K0 698 525 for drums). Their average price is 3,500–5,000 rubles per set. However, many owners choose analogues from trusted brands:

  • πŸ”§ ATE (13.0460-7198.2) - soft, generates little dust, but wears out faster than the original.
  • πŸ”§ Brembo (P 68 024) - tough, suitable for an aggressive driving style.
  • πŸ”§ Ferodo (FDB1832) - optimal price/quality balance, recommended for the city.
  • πŸ”§ Bosch (0 986 494 219) is a universal option, but the first 200 km may creak.

When choosing, pay attention to friction material composition:

  • 🟒 Low-metallic - durable, but noisy and aggressive to disks.
  • 🟑 Ceramic β€” quiet and generate little dust, but more expensive and less effective at low temperatures.
  • πŸ”΄ Organic - cheap, but wear out quickly (suitable only for quiet driving).

⚠️ Attention: On Octavia Tour with engines 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI (after 2017) pads are often installed with wear sensor. If you buy a non-original one, make sure that the kit includes a connector for connecting to the wiring - otherwise an error will appear on the device ESP.
πŸ“Š What pads do you prefer to install?
  • Original (TRW)
  • Analogs (ATE, Brembo)
  • Budget (Ferodo, Bosch)
  • I don't know what to choose

Tools and materials: complete checklist

To replace the rear pads with Octavia Tour you will need:

Wheelbrace and jack (or lift)

Socket set (13mm, 15mm, 17mm) and ratchet handle

Socket wrench for guides (typically 7mm or T30)

Hammer and wooden block (for pressing in the piston)

Caliper Lubricant (Slipkote 220-R or LIQUI MOLY Bremsen-Anti-Quitsch-Paste)

Brake cleaner (Brake Cleaner)

Flathead screwdriver or pry bar

New pads (set per axle)

Gloves and safety glasses

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If on your Octavia Tour installed drum brakes (valid for basic versions up to 2013), additionally you will need:

  • πŸ”§ Special puller for tension springs.
  • πŸ”§ Adjustment key for eccentric.

Important: Before starting work, check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. If it is close to the maximum, pump out some of it with a syringe. When the caliper piston is compressed, the fluid will rise, and its excess can lead to expansion tank rupture (valid for models with ESP 9.0).

Step-by-step instructions: replacing disc pads

Replacement process Octavia Tour with disc brakes it takes about 40–60 minutes per side. Follow the algorithm:

  1. Jack up the car and remove the wheel. Place wheel chocks under the threshold.
  2. Clean the caliper remove dirt with a brush and Brake Cleaner. Do not use water - it is corrosive.
  3. Remove the guides calipers (usually two 13 or 15 mm bolts). If they are stuck, treat them WD-40 and wait 10 minutes.
  4. Hang the caliper on a wire or belt to avoid damaging the brake hose.
  5. Remove old pads. If they are β€œstuck” to the disk, carefully pry them off with a screwdriver.
  6. Sink the caliper piston. On models with electronic handbrake (EPB) this is done through a diagnostic scanner (for example, VCDS or OBDeleven). For a mechanical handbrake, use a hammer and a wooden block.
  7. Install new pads, having first applied a thin layer of lubricant to their back side.
  8. Reassemble everything in reverse order and bleed the brakes (press the pedal 5-7 times until resistance appears).
⚠️ Attention: On Octavia Tour with the system ESP Mk60 (2013–2020) after replacing the pads, an error may light up ABS. To reset it, calibrate the sensors: start the car, drive 20 meters at a speed of 30 km/h and brake sharply. Repeat 3 times.
How to recess a piston without a scanner on an EPB

If you don’t have diagnostic equipment, you can use the β€œold-fashioned” method:

1. Remove the cap from the brake fluid reservoir.

2. Turn on the ignition (do not start the engine).

3. Press the brake pedal all the way and hold it.

4. Unscrew the reservoir cap 1-2 turns - the liquid will begin to flow out and the piston will sink.

Important: This method only works on models up to 2018! New versions require a scanner.

Features of replacement on drum brakes

Drum brakes on Octavia Tour found less frequently (mostly on basic trim levels) 1.6 MPI until 2013), but their replacement has its own nuances:

  1. Remove the drum. If it is stuck, screw two bolts into the threaded holes at the end and tighten them evenly until the drum moves.
  2. Clean the mechanism from dust and old grease. Use Brake Cleaner and a metal brush.
  3. Remove the tension springs special puller. Do not try to do this with pliers - you risk damaging the springs.
  4. Replace the pads and install new springs. On Octavia Tour pads are often used TRW GDB1446.
  5. Adjust the gap eccentric. The correct gap is 0.3–0.5 mm between the block and the drum.

Critical point: After replacing the drum pads, be sure to check the operation hand brake. If the cables are stretched, they may need to be tightened (the adjusting nut is located under the plastic plug in the passenger compartment, next to the handbrake lever).

πŸ’‘

Before installing new brake pads on drum brakes, apply a thin layer of copper grease. This will prevent squeaking and extend service life by 10–15%.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when replacing pads. Here are the most common of them:

Error Consequences How to avoid
Late replacement Brake disc damage, fluid leakage Control the thickness of the pads (minimum 2 mm)
Using the wrong lubricant Souring of guides, creaking Only specialized lubricants (Slipkote, LIQUI MOLY)
Incorrect spring installation (drum brakes) Uneven wear, wheel locking Follow the diagram from the manual or photo before disassembling
Forgot to recess the piston Unable to install caliper, fluid leaking Check piston stroke before assembly

Another typical problem β€” creaking after replacement. It may occur due to:

  • πŸ”Š Lack of anti-squeak plates (included with the pads).
  • πŸ”Š Incorrect installation (the pads should β€œsit” tightly, without play).
  • πŸ”Š Low-quality friction material (especially cheap analogues).

1. Condition of the brake discs (may require regrooving).

2. Availability of lubricant on the caliper guides.

3. Correct installation of anti-squeak plates.

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How to reset the service interval after replacement

On Octavia Tour since 2017 (platform MQB) After replacing the pads, you must reset the wear counter in the on-board computer. This can be done in two ways:

Method 1: Through the MAXIDOT menu (for cars before 2020)

  1. Turn on the ignition (do not start the engine).
  2. Press and hold the button 0.0/SET on the steering column switch.
  3. Scroll to Service β†’ Inspection.
  4. Select Reset and confirm by holding the button.

Method 2: Through a diagnostic scanner (for all versions)

If you have Octavia Tour with EPB or Virtual Cockpit, you will need a scanner (VCDS, OBDeleven, Carista). Procedure: 



1. Connect the scanner to the OBD-II connector.


2. Select block [53-Parking Brake] or [03-ABS].


3. Go to the "Basic Settings" section.


4. Select the "Brake Pad Wear Reset" channel and perform a reset.


5. For EPB, additionally activate the "Parkerbrake Close/Open" function for calibration.

⚠️ Attention: On models with EPB after resetting the service interval, you may need to parking brake adaptation. To do this:
  • πŸ”§ Start the engine.
  • πŸ”§ Press and hold the brake pedal.
  • πŸ”§ Activate the handbrake for 5 seconds, then release.
  • πŸ”§ Repeat 3 times.

When to contact service: signs of malfunctions

Not all brake problems can be solved by replacing the pads. Contact a specialist if, after replacement:

  • 🚨 The brake pedal has become β€œsoft” or is falling down - possible fluid leak or malfunction GTZ.
  • 🚨 The car pulls to the side when braking - maybe jammed caliper or disc deformation.
  • 🚨 Lights up on the dash ABS or ESP β€” diagnostics of sensors or control unit is required.
  • 🚨 Braking distance increased by more than 30% - check disk status (they may need to be sharpened or replaced).

If you notice brake fluid leaks on the caliper or hoses - stop using immediately! This is a sign of system depressurization, which can lead to complete loss of brakes.

πŸ’‘

Average life of rear brake discs per Octavia Tour β€” 100–150 thousand km. If their thickness is less than 10.5 mm (for ventilated) or 8 mm (for non-ventilated), replacement is required.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

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

No, the pads are always changed in pairs on the same axis. If you replace only one side, the braking force will be distributed unevenly, which will lead to skidding during emergency braking. An exception is if the pad is mechanically damaged (for example, after an accident), but even in this case it is recommended to replace both.

How often should you check your rear pads?

For Octavia Tour recommended check interval - every 15 thousand km or once a year. Pay attention to:

  • πŸ” Visual wear (friction layer thickness less than 3 mm).
  • πŸ” Creaking or whistling noise when braking.
  • πŸ” Increasing the brake pedal travel.

On machines with EPB The condition of the pads can be checked through the on-board computer menu: CAR β†’ Service β†’ Brake pads.

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

Bleeding is required only in two cases:

  1. If you have disconnected brake hoses or pipes.
  2. If, when retracting the piston, brake fluid leaks out of the reservoir and air enters the system.

In all other cases, it is enough to press the brake pedal 5–7 times until resistance appears.

What is the difference between Octavia Tour and EPB pads?

Pads for cars with electronic handbrake have:

  • πŸ”Ή Recesses for the wear sensor (if provided).
  • πŸ”Ή Stiffer friction material (as EPB is often activated in traffic jams).
  • πŸ”Ή Sometimes there are special grooves for better heat dissipation.

Install β€œregular” pads on EPB it is possible, but they will last 20–30% less.

Is it possible to drive if only one pad wears out?

No! If one pad wears out faster than the other, this is a sign:

  • πŸš— Caliper guide jamming.
  • πŸš— Damage to the piston boot.
  • πŸš— Brake disc deformation.

Operation in this condition will result in brake overheating and the risk of wheel jamming. It is necessary to diagnose the caliper and guides.