Audi A6 Typ 4G: Braking
New brake pads
New brake pads do not achieve their full braking effect during the first 250 mi (400 km). They must be "broken in" first.
Wear
Brake pad wear depends largely on the way the vehicle is driven and on operating conditions.
This is especially true if you are driving frequently in the city and on curves or with a sporty driving style.
Operating noise
Noises may occur when braking depending on the speed, braking force and outside conditions such as temperature and humidity.
Effect of water and road salt
In certain situations, for example after driving through water, in heavy rain, after overnight condensation or after washing your car, the braking effect can be reduced by moisture or ice on the brake rotors and brake pads. The brakes must be "dried" first with a few careful brake applications.
At higher speeds and with the windshield wipers turned on, the brake pads press against the brake rotors for a short amount of time. This action, which is not felt by the driver, happens at regular intervals and ensures a better reaction time for the brakes in wet weather.
The braking effect can also be reduced if you are driving on salted roads and you do not apply the brakes for long periods of time. The layer of salt on the brake rotors and pads must be worn off first when the brakes are applied.
Corrosion
Leaving the vehicle parked for long periods of time, low mileage and avoiding heavy braking can contribute to corrosion on the brake rotors and to 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.
Brake system malfunction
if you notice that the brake pedal travel has suddenly increased, then a brake circuit in the dualcircuit brake system may have malfunctioned.
Drive to an authorized Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility immediately to have the problem corrected. On the way there, drive with reduced speed and keep in mind that you will need a longer distance to stop and you will need to press the brake pedal harder.
Low brake fluid level
When the brake fluid level is low, malfunctions in the brake system may occur. The brake fluid level is electronically monitored.
Brake booster
The brake booster amplifies the pressure you apply to the brake pedal. It only works when the engine is running.
WARNING
- Only apply the brakes for the purpose of cleaning the brake system when road and traffic conditions permit. You must not endanger other road users. This increases the risk of an accident.
- Never let the vehicle roll while the engine is stopped because this increases the risk of an accident.
- New brake pads do not achieve their full
braking effect during the first 250 mi
(400 km). They must be "broken in" first.
However, you can compensate for the slightly reduced braking force by pressing firmly on the brake pedal. Avoid heavy braking during the break-in period.
- Certain weather and operating conditions such as driving through water, driving in heavy rain or driving after washing your vehicle can impair the effectiveness of the brakes. In the winter, ice may build up on the brake pads, rotors and drums. Check these components by braking carefully. Applying the brakes carefully several times dries the brakes and removes ice build-up.
- The efficiency of the brakes can also be impaired
by driving for long stretches on roads
covered with salt without using the brakes.
You can remove salt deposits from the brake rotors and pads by carefully applying the brakes several times.
- If the front spoiler is damaged or you install another spoiler, make sure the front wheel brakes are ventilated properly. Otherwise, the brake system could overheat, which reduces their effectiveness.
- Failure of a brake circuit impairs braking
performance, which increases braking distance.
Avoid driving the vehicle and have it towed it to the nearest authorized Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility.
- If the brake booster is not working, you will have to press much harder on the brake pedal to compensate for the lack of the booster.
Note
- Never let the brakes "rub" by pressing the pedal lightly when braking is not actually necessary. This causes the brakes to overheat and increases braking distance and causes wear.
- Before driving downhill a long distance on a steep hill, decrease your speed and select a lower gear. This makes use of the engine braking effect and relieves the brakes. If you need to brake additionally, brake in intervals and not continuously.
Tips
- If the brake booster is not working, you must press the brake pedal with much more force than normal.
- If you retrofit your vehicle with a front spoiler, wheel covers or similar items, make sure that the air flow to the front wheels is not interrupted. Otherwise the brake system can become too hot.
