How to Replace Discs and Pads on a Volkswagen Golf VII

In this video, we can see how to replace the discs and pads on a Volkswagen Golf VII: lift the car with axle stands, loosen the wheel nuts and remove the wheel. Use a flat screwdriver to remove the wear sensor from the pads, then unscrew the lower bolts of the caliper.

Once unscrewed, hang the caliper from the frame with a wire to avoid damaging the brake fluid hose. Manually extract the old pads.

To remove the disc, it is necessary to also take off the caliper bracket by unscrewing the two rear bolts that secure it to the hub. Now the disc can be removed by gently tapping it with a rubber mallet. Clean the hub thoroughly from dust and dirt, apply anti-seize spray on the hub where the new disc will rest, and fit it. Reattach the caliper bracket by tightening the bolts, then insert the new pads into the caliper, reconnect the wear sensor for the new pads.

Before reattaching the caliper, it is necessary to fully retract the piston to make room for the new pads: do this with a sturdy pliers; on many Volkswagens, the piston also needs to be turned while pushing. Reattach the caliper by tightening the bolts with a 13mm spanner while holding the lock nut with a 17mm. Refit the wheel, lower the car, and tighten the nuts.

Before driving off, pump the brake pedal several times to bring the piston back into contact with the pads.