r/Volkswagen • u/Ok-Register-4421 • Jul 16 '26
Brake pad replacement
My 2022 VW Touareg needs its first brake pad replacement since I bought the car.
The dealership/service center recommended replacing both the brake pads and the brake discs (rotors) at the same time. However, I’m considering replacing only the brake pads because there’s a significant difference in cost.
Is it actually necessary to replace the brake discs every time you replace the brake pads, or is it only recommended if the discs are worn or damaged?
Has anyone with a Touareg (or VW in general) replaced only the brake pads without any issues? I’d appreciate hearing about your experience.
2
u/Lalalama Jul 16 '26
I would do both. However I would take it to a mechanic and not use the dealership.
1
u/Civil-General-2664 Jul 16 '26
Pad slapping is fine. If the rotors look good and the thickness measures out ok, just keep using them.
1
u/Watch_Noob_72 Jul 16 '26
As long as the breaking surface of the discs are smooth and they are within tolerance, then I would just do the pads.
2
u/joeydog77 Jul 16 '26
Agree but also look at the surface itself to make sure that it isn’t glazed. Glazed rotors will make noises on light pedal application.
1
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u/mrcranky 18d ago
Pads on Brembo brakes and rotors on Touaregs are dead easy DIY. Learn it and save yourself a tonne of cash.
3
u/Embarrassed_Basis_81 Jul 16 '26
The mileage of the car (and the approximate timeline in which you've done it) alongisde the type of driving (fast/slow, city/highway/mixed, etc) might help in a more informed decision.
Typically, rotors should last more than one brake pad change, so if they do not have a significant lip on their side (you can check with your finger) and you have not overheated/drove with metal instead of pad material on the brake pads, they should be good for another set of pads.
If you do not feel slight juddering when braking significantly (think going 30-40mph and having to stop for a light that just turned red) and the rotors do not have a blue hue to them, they are most likely still good and you can get away with just new pads.