how to fix my Volkswagen Golf MK6 (2009-2014) if it shakes when braking

Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

4 min read

627 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to fix shaking brakes in Volkswagen Golf MK6 (2009-2014). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Brakes

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.
•Allow brake components to cool before handling if the vehicle has been recently driven.

Symptoms

•Steering wheel shakes during braking
•Pulsation felt through the brake pedal
•Uneven wear on brake pads
•Warped brake rotors
•Noise during braking (squeaking or grinding)
•Vehicle pulls to one side while braking

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake rotors for warping or uneven wear using a runout gauge.
2
Check brake pads for thickness and even wear.
3
Examine suspension components (control arms, bushings, and tie rods) for wear or damage.
4
Verify wheel alignment and tire condition for uneven wear or balance issues.
5
Scan for any error codes related to the braking system using an OBD-II scanner.
6
Test drive the vehicle to confirm symptoms under various braking conditions.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Lug wrench
•Jack and jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Brake cleaner
•Bungee cord or wire

Parts Required

•New brake rotors
•New brake pads
•Brake lubricant

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect brake rotors for warping or uneven wear using a runout gauge.
2
Check brake pads for thickness and even wear.
3
Examine suspension components (control arms, bushings, and tie rods) for wear or damage.
4
Verify wheel alignment and tire condition for uneven wear or balance issues.
5
Scan for any error codes related to the braking system using an OBD-II scanner.
6
Test drive the vehicle to confirm symptoms under various braking conditions.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and secure it with wheel chocks.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent electrical issues.

2. Brake Rotor Replacement

Remove Wheel
- Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts before lifting the vehicle.
- Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
- Fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Remove Brake Caliper
- Use a socket set to remove the caliper bolts.
- Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and support it using a bungee cord or wire (do not let it hang from the brake line).
Remove Brake Rotor
- Remove any retaining screws or clips holding the rotor in place.
- Slide the rotor off the hub. If stuck, gently tap it with a rubber mallet.
Install New Rotor
- Clean the hub surface with brake cleaner to remove debris and rust.
- Install the new rotor onto the hub, ensuring it sits flush.

3. Brake Pad Replacement

Remove Old Brake Pads
- Remove the caliper bracket if necessary, using the appropriate socket.
- Slide the old pads out of the caliper bracket.
Install New Brake Pads
- Apply brake lubricant to the back of the new pads to reduce noise.
- Slide the new pads into the caliper bracket.
Reinstall Brake Caliper
- Position the caliper back over the new pads and rotor.
- Tighten the caliper bolts to the manufacturer's torque specifications (typically around 25-30 Nm).

4. Reassemble Vehicle

Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's torque specifications (typically around 120 Nm).
Reconnect the negative battery terminal.