why do my brakes squeak on my Volkswagen Passat B8 (2015-2022) when I press them

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and secured with wheel chocks.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves.

2. Remove Wheel

• Loosen lug nuts slightly while the vehicle is on the ground.
• Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the wheel to access the brake components.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Inspect Brake Pads:
  • Remove the brake caliper by unbolting it (use a socket set).
  • Slide the caliper off the rotor and support it with a bungee cord (do not let it hang by the brake line).
  • Check the brake pads for thickness; if they are below 3mm, replace them.
• Replace Brake Pads:
  • Remove the old pads from the caliper bracket.
  • Install the new pads, ensuring they are aligned correctly.

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors (if necessary)

• Inspect Rotors:
  • Check for warping or scoring on the rotor surface.
• Replace Rotors:
  • If replacement is needed, unbolt and remove the rotor from the hub.
  • Install new rotors and torque the mounting bolts to manufacturer specifications (typically around 70-90 ft-lbs).

5. Reassemble and Test

• Reinstall the brake caliper over the new pads and torque the caliper bolts to manufacturer specifications (typically around 30-40 ft-lbs).
• Reattach the wheel, tighten the lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts to specifications (typically around 90-100 ft-lbs).
• Pump the brake pedal several times to seat the new pads and ensure proper operation.