Removing and installing front brake caliper (RS 3): Audi A3

🧭 Before you start

Fits: Audi A3 (8P, 2003–2012)

• Opens: brake fluid

Don't miss

• The pad wear indicator wire is only installed at the left brake caliper.
• Take care not to scratch or damage brake caliper.
• Do not suspend the brake caliper from the brake hose. Secure it to the body with a suitable wire.

🔩 Torque settings

Values can differ between engine variants — check the code stamped on your block.

ℹ️ Always cross-check the exact figure against your vehicle's factory manual before final tightening — a wrong torque can damage the engine. These values are extracted from workshop data and may not cover every variant or revision.

📋 Procedure

1. Raise the vehicle.
2. Remove wheels. [Note: The pad wear indicator wire is only installed at the left brake caliper.]
3. Unclip pad wear indicator wire (9) from bracket.
4. Unplug electrical connector from pad wear indicator wire.
5. Unclip brake hose (13) from bracket.

6. Press brake pistons at brake pads slightly back into brake caliper using a suitable tool. [Note: Take care not to scratch or damage brake caliper.]
7. Remove bolts (2).
8. Detach brake caliper. [Note: Do not suspend the brake caliper from the brake hose. Secure it to the body with a suitable wire.] [Note: Renew bolts (2).]
9. Carefully slide brake caliper (with brake pads fitted) over brake disc and install.
10. Secure brake caliper with new bolts (2). 200 Nm — 200 Nm (148 lb-ft)
11. Fit brake hose (13) in bracket.
12. Connect pad wear indicator wire (9).
13. Insert pad wear indicator wire in bracket.
14. Lower vehicle.
15. Check brake fluid level and top up if necessary.

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