why is my Volkswagen Passat B8 (2015-2022) steering wheel shaking when braking

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

2. Wheel Removal

• Sub-steps:
  1. Loosen the lug nuts using a socket set while the vehicle is still on the ground.
  2. Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
  3. Remove the wheel completely to access the brake assembly.
• Tools Required: Socket set, jack, jack stands.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors (if warped)

• Sub-steps:
  1. Use a rotor gauge to check for warping; if warped beyond specifications (typically 0.002 inches), replace.
  2. Remove the caliper assembly by unscrewing the caliper bolts and support it without stressing the brake line.
  3. Remove the rotor by unscrewing the retaining screws (if applicable) and sliding it off the hub.
  4. Install the new rotor by aligning it with the hub and securing it in place.
• Tools Required: Rotor gauge, socket set, caliper tool.

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Sub-steps:
  1. Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
  2. Inspect the thickness of the pads; replace if worn down below 3mm.
  3. Apply brake grease to the backing of the new pads and install them into the caliper bracket.
• Tools Required: Brake pad spreader tool, brake grease.

5. Reassemble and Wheel Installation

• Sub-steps:
  1. Reattach the caliper over the new pads and secure with bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specification (typically around 25-30 Nm).
  2. Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
  3. Lower the vehicle and then use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically around 120 Nm).
• Tools Required: Torque wrench.