Regardless of whether you drive a Volkswagen jetta or a different make of car, you need to be able to keep your brakes in good condition. Luckily, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure your vehicle has the best performance possible.
Rear drum brakes failed on more than one occasion
During a recent test drive, the brakes on my Volkswagen Jetta failed on more than one occasion. I was shocked. I pressed the pedal only to find that it did not engage. The vehicle rolled forward and hit another parked car. It could have been fatal. Luckily, I had emergency procedures in place and the vehicle was towed to a body repair center.
While the car was in the shop, the brake master cylinder was replaced. I was advised to contact my insurance company. At that time, the TPMS light did not shut off. The mechanic stated that it was an indication that a defect exists.
Premature rear brake wear and failure
During our reliability analysis of the Volkswagen Jetta, we found that premature rear brake wear and failure is a real problem. This is one of the most common issues reported by Volkswagen owners.
The braking system of the vehicle is one of the most important components of the car. It gets the least attention, so you should pay close attention to it. If you suspect that your vehicle has an issue with the braking system, you can contact your local Volkswagen dealer or specialist for assistance.
The brake system of the Volkswagen Jetta is made up of several components. Aside from the brakes, there is also a lubrication system, which is essential to preventing a brake problem. Using a good quality lubricant can help you prevent rust buildup, which can affect the functioning of your brakes.
Check for creaking noise in the front suspension
Having a creaking noise in the front suspension of your Volkswagen Jetta is not a good thing. The sound may be caused by a bad suspension bushing, or a faulty shock absorber. It is important to know when to fix this problem to avoid further damage.
The Jetta has a Torsion beam and coil springs. The anti-roll bar and steering linkages are also part of the suspension. When you are driving over bumps or potholes, the ball joints will creak and squeak.
The creaking noise will become louder as the ball joints wear out. You can try to fix the problem temporarily by applying a lubricant to the bushings. However, it will eventually need to be replaced.
Removing brake pads from old rotors
Changing brake pads and rotors is one of the most important repairs for your car. Unless you are a professional, you may find yourself at a loss when it comes to this job. However, a moderately skilled DIYer should be able to do it in a few hours.
The first step in removing your rotors and pads is to clean them. This will help to prevent the rust that can form in the braking system during storage. You can use a brake parts cleaner spray to get the job done.
Secondly, you should use a big flathead screwdriver to compress the piston in the caliper. This will allow you to easily pull the caliper off the rotor.
Bleeding an ABS brake system
Using the right tools and a little bit of patience you can bleed your ABS brake system. There are a couple of things you need to know before you start. Fortunately, it’s a relatively easy process.
First, you need to get the correct type of brake fluid. It’s important to use the proper kind because different types don’t mix well. You can buy good quality brake fluid for a low cost.
You’ll also need a bleeder tool. You can buy a conventional power bleeder or a vacuum bleeder.
The trick is to follow the manufacturer’s recommended sequence. The bleeder tool will relieve brake pressure and allow you to see the clean fluid.
Buying performance brake pads & rotors
Buying performance brake pads & rotors for your Volkswagen Jetta will help you get the most from your vehicle. The cost of this upgrade will vary depending on your braking system and your needs.
There are many brands of brake pads available to choose from. Some are better than others. A few of the more popular brands include EBC, Hawk HPS and NAO. There are also many types of compounds. The best ones are the organic, low dust and the semi-metallic.
If you are a racer, then you might want to consider buying a better set of brakes. They will make your brakes work harder and keep you safe while doing so. However, this upgrade can be a bit pricey.
How to Change Brake Fluid in Your Volkswagen Jetta Brake Fluid