Replacing the rear brake discs on an Audi A6 Saloon isn’t just about keeping your car in top shape. It’s about safety. Worn-out brake discs can seriously impact stopping power, and no one wants to find that out the hard way. While the job requires patience and attention to detail, it’s completely manageable if you have the right tools and follow the process carefully.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before diving in, make sure you have everything ready. Nothing’s worse than getting halfway through a job and realizing you’re missing a crucial tool.
- Jack and jack stands – Safety first! You need the car securely lifted.
- Wheel chocks – Prevents unwanted movement.
- Lug wrench – To loosen and remove the wheel nuts.
- Caliper piston retraction tool – Essential for resetting the rear caliper piston.
- Socket set and wrench – Various sizes will be needed for removing bolts.
- Torque wrench – Ensures bolts are properly tightened.
- Brake cleaner – Removes dust and grease from new discs.
- New brake discs and pads – Always replace pads when changing discs.
- Gloves and eye protection – Brake dust isn’t something you want to breathe in.
- Copper grease or anti-seize compound – Helps prevent stuck bolts in the future.
Step-By-Step Guide to Replacing Rear Brake Discs
1. Secure the Car and Remove the Wheels
Start by parking on a flat surface and engaging the handbrake. Loosen the rear wheel nuts slightly before jacking the car up. It’s easier when the wheels are still on the ground. Use jack stands for safety, then remove the wheels completely.
2. Remove the Brake Caliper and Bracket
The brake caliper is held on by a couple of bolts at the rear. Use your socket set to remove these, then carefully slide the caliper off. It may be stiff, especially if the brakes have been in use for a long time. Once removed, don’t let it dangle by the brake hose. This can cause damage. Instead, use a bungee cord or zip tie to secure it out of the way.
Next, remove the caliper bracket, which is bolted onto the hub. These bolts are typically very tight, so having a breaker bar helps. Once removed, set the bracket aside.
3. Remove the Old Brake Disc
Before taking off the disc, check for securing screws. Some models have small retaining screws that need to be loosened first. If the disc is stuck due to rust, gently tap around the edges with a rubber mallet to break it free.
Once removed, use brake cleaner and a cloth to clean the hub surface. A smooth surface ensures the new disc sits flush, preventing vibration issues.
4. Install the New Brake Disc
Before fitting the new disc, clean it with brake cleaner to remove any protective coating. Then, line it up with the hub and secure it using the retaining screws if present.
5. Reinstall the Caliper Bracket and Brake Pads
Bolt the caliper bracket back onto the hub, tightening the bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications. Since you’re replacing the brake discs, it’s a good idea to fit new brake pads at the same time.
Before reinstalling the caliper, the piston needs to be pushed back into its housing. Rear brake calipers often require a winding tool rather than a simple clamp, so make sure you rotate the piston while applying pressure.
6. Reattach the Brake Caliper
Once the piston is fully retracted, slide the caliper back over the pads and bolt it into place. Tighten to the correct torque.
7. Reassemble and Test
With everything back together, refit the wheel and tighten the lug nuts by hand. Lower the car and torque the wheel nuts properly.
Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to restore brake pressure. Otherwise, you might get a nasty surprise when you try to stop! Also, bed in the new discs and pads by applying gentle braking at moderate speeds for the first few drives.
Final Thoughts
Changing the rear brake discs on an Audi A6 Saloon is a rewarding job that saves money and ensures your brakes perform as they should. It’s not overly complex, but patience and the right tools make all the difference.
If you’ve got any tips from your own experience or want to ask about specific issues, drop a comment below! And if you’re not entirely confident tackling this yourself, there’s no shame in seeking professional help. Brakes are one thing you don’t want to get wrong. Safe driving!
