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Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Golf/MK8.5 (2024-Present)/why does my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) make a grinding noise when braking

why does my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) make a grinding noise when braking

Volkswagen Golf MK8.5 (2024-Present)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
552 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix grinding noise when braking in Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Brakes
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow brakes to cool down before inspection or repair to avoid burns.

Symptoms

  • •Grinding noise when applying brakes
  • •Vibration in the brake pedal during braking
  • •Reduced braking efficiency
  • •Brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Unusual wear patterns on brake pads or rotors

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Inspect brake pads for wear; check for thickness and presence of any foreign materials.
  2. 2Examine brake rotors for scoring, warping, or damage; measure rotor thickness with a micrometer.
  3. 3Check brake calipers for proper function and ensure they are not sticking or seized.
  4. 4Inspect brake hardware, including clips and shims, for damage or incorrect installation.
  5. 5Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any related error codes that may relate to the braking system.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and secure it with wheel chocks.
  • Disconnect the battery before starting work to ensure safety.

2. Remove Wheel

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench
  • Loosen lug nuts slightly while the vehicle is on the ground.
  • Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
  • Fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

  • Tools Required: Piston retracting tool, brake cleaner
  • Remove the caliper bolts using the socket set.
  • Carefully lift the caliper off the rotor; do not disconnect brake lines.
  • Inspect the brake pads for thickness and replace if worn below the manufacturer’s specification (typically 3mm).
  • Clean the caliper and rotor with brake cleaner before installation.
  • If necessary, use a piston retracting tool to push the caliper piston back into the caliper.

4. Check and Replace Brake Rotors (if necessary)

  • Tools Required: Torque wrench, brake rotor removal tool
  • If the rotors are damaged, remove them by unscrewing the retaining screws (if applicable) or using a rotor removal tool.
  • Install new rotors, ensuring they are properly seated.
  • Torque the rotor screws to the manufacturer's specifications.

5. Reassemble and Test

  • Reinstall the caliper over the new brake pads and torque the caliper bolts to the specified torque.
  • Reattach the wheel and torque the lug nuts in a star pattern to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Reconnect the battery and lower the vehicle.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Piston retracting tool
  • Brake cleaner
  • Brake rotor removal tool

Parts Required

  • Brake pads
  • Brake rotors (if needed)
  • Brake hardware kit (clips, shims)

Additional Information

Component

Brakes

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

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