Discs & Pads

[Whizzbang]

Hi, 

Anyone got knowledge or videos for changing from Discs & Pads on on a C7 - A6 - 2011 spec car, thinking I may do this myself thanks to Audi wanting £450.00,  I'm yet to check the Audi specialists or Kwick Fit / ATS type places as I wanted to explore this option first? 

Ive done most my cars in the past and just wanted to see what sensors we had and the likely hood of it becoming a awkward job, if it does I will just send it in somewhere.

Cheers Adie. 

[Magnet]

Hello Adie,

I don't think I am going to be of much use to you with knowledge of this particular model, but generally fronts are less complicated than rears if the rears have electric hand brakes.

What I would say is to buy wisely as far as the parts are concerned, and in this respect my first port of call would be main dealer parts at a dealer who would give you a discount - they are about. Of course, you can buy some aftermarket pads and discs much cheaper, but will they give you the braking efficiency and service life of the genuine VAG parts? Generally no, in my experience if you buy on price. If you have to buy aftermarket then it may be worth considering  EBC or Brembo (perhaps only?) 

Regarding whipping it around to Kwik Fit - it is possible that they may order the parts from the local motor factors on a best- buy basis, so I would be careful there, and indeed at any garage. I would be further aware that there are brands of pads and discs which were once very much respected, but are now just bought-out brand names.

Not sure how much of this is going to help you Adie, but my advise would be to go for the best parts at the best price.

Kind regards,

Gareth. 

[Audi Owners Club.]

I completely agree with Gareth's statement and think you're best bet is an independent garage if you don't feel like tackling the job yourself.

Always worth investing in quality parts as there is a huge difference in braking performance, especially from the pads.

Keep us updated on your progress

Cheers  Trevor

[Beezil]

As already stated, buy the best you can get. Remember that your tyres & brakes are the most important components on your car, so is it worth saving a few quid for lower quality parts? You decide!

If you decide to do yourself, then the parts dept at your Audi dealer will sell you the genuine article, but often the likes of EuroCarParts will provide the exact same part but in a different box (i.e. without the VAG logo) and for less money. Also remember that even if you are a complete amateur mechanic, then you've probably only had 1 day's less training than kwikfit employees.

[Magnet]

I most certainly agree with Barry's sentiments regarding using quality parts only.

I would however suggest caution with any motor factors ( not just restricted to ECP) where you are certainly going to get the parts cheaper - but the same braking effect and lasting qualities?? I know I am repeating, but it might be worth being beware of brand names that were once much loved and respected, but are now possibly no more than bought-out brand names which appear an attractive buy due to the cheap price. 

Good luck with whatever you decide - let us know Aidie.

Kind regards,

Gareth.