Information on the brakes
Breaking in brake pads
During the first approx. 200 to 300 km(approx. 100 to 200 miles), new brake pads do not yet have their full braking
efficiency and first need to be “worn in” → . However, you can compensate for the slightly reduced braking force by
pressing firmly on the brake pedal. During the break-in period, the braking distance during full braking or automatic
braking is longer than with brake pads that have been broken in. During the break-in period, avoid full braking and
situations that place a heavy load on the brakes, such as driving too close to the vehicle ahead.
Brake pad wear
Brake pad wear depends on driving conditions and style. When driving frequently in cities and on curves or with a
sporty driving style, have your brake pads checked frequently by suitably qualified professionals. Volkswagen
recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
External influences on the brake
When driving with wet brakes, for example after driving through water, in heavy rain, or after washing your vehicle,
the braking efficiency can be reduced by moisture or ice on the brake discs. You must “dry” the brakes as soon as
possible by braking carefully at high speeds. Ensure that you do not endanger any other vehicles or anyone else on
the road →
.
A coating of salt on the brake discs and brake pads reduces the braking efficiency and increases the braking distance.
If you do not apply the brakes for long periods of time on salt-covered roads, you must brake carefully to clean off
the layer of salt → . Ensure that you do not endanger any other vehicles or anyone else on the road→
.
Leaving the vehicle parked for long periods of time, low mileage, and avoiding heavy braking can contribute to
corrosion on the brake rotors and dirty brake pads. If you usually avoid heavy braking or if there is corrosion present,
occasional heavy braking at high speeds is recommended to clean the brake rotors and pads. Ensure that you do not
endanger any other vehicles or anyone else on the road →
.
WARNING
Driving with worn brake pads or a malfunctioning brake system can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle, accidents
and serious or fatal injuries.
● If you suspect that the brake pads are worn or the brake system is malfunctioning, immediately find a suitably
qualified professional and have the brake pads checked and worn brake pads replaced. Volkswagen recommends
contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
WARNING
Up to the first approx. 300 km(approx. 200 miles), new brake pads do not yet have their full braking efficiency and
first need to be “worn in”. Insufficient braking efficiency can increase the risk of accidents. This can cause serious or
even fatal injuries.
● Increase the pressure on the brake pedal if reduced braking efficiency can be felt.
● To reduce the risk of accidents, serious injuries, and loss of vehicle control, drive with extra caution when the
brake pads are new.
● During the break-in period for new brake pads, do not drive too close to other vehicles and avoid driving
situations that place a heavy load on the brakes.
WARNING
Prolonged braking causes the brakes to overheat. This can considerably reduce braking performance, increase
braking distance and possibly cause a total brake system malfunction. This can cause a loss of vehicle control,
accidents, and serious or fatal injuries.
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