How to replace front brake pads on an Audi A4 B8?

Question

Doing my A4 B8 brakes before my Tahoe trip! Read some say you need a computer to retract pistons but others say thats only for the rears?

budget is tight

no VCDS tool

need it done by Saturday

Do I really need a tool for the fronts or just a clamp??

ofvgyyjulw · Accepted Answer

Like someone mentioned, youre totally safe on the fronts without a scan tool. Just wrapped mine yesterday. Honestly tho, I was disappointed with some cheapos I tried last season. They faded way too fast in the mountains. Since youre heading to Tahoe, dont cheap out too much on the friction material or youll regret it when the car is loaded with gear.TRW GDB1768 Front Brake PadsThese are basically OEM quality. Great bite but slightly more dust than ceramics.Wagner QuickStop ZD1322 Ceramic Disc Brake Pad SetBetter for the wallet, but I had issues with them squeaking until they got really warm. If you can swing the extra twenty bucks, go with TRW. The Wagners are okay for flat ground, but for mountain driving, the TRWs handle the heat way better. Definitely pick up a bottle of CRC Disc Brake Quiet 4oz to coat the back of the pads too, saves a lot of headache later.

ikeuszgewi · Answer

Yeah you're fine for the fronts. The computer requirement is strictly for the rear electronic parking brake on the B8. For the front, you just need a standard brake tool or a big clamp to push the piston back into the caliper. Make sure you follow these steps carefully:

Loosen the cap on the brake fluid reservoir so you dont build too much pressure.

Use a TEKTON 5910 6-Inch C-Clamp and an old pad to push the piston back slowly.

Check the rubber dust boots for any tears or leaks while youre in there.

Clean the carrier where the pads sit with a wire brush. You might want to consider grabbing some Permatex Ultra Disc Brake Caliper Lube for the contact points. Dont skip cleaning the slide pins or you might get uneven wear later. If the reservoir was topped off lately, watch the level so it doesnt spill over when you compress the piston.