The VW Golf Mk6 uses the standard VW Group sliding-pin caliper setup with 7mm Allen key slider pins. The front brakes are very accessible and this is an ideal first brake job for any DIY mechanic.
Note: on the near-side (passenger side) caliper there is a brake pad wear sensor on one of the pads. This must be unplugged before removal and plugged back in correctly on reassembly or the warning light will remain on.
When You Need This Job
- Grinding or metal-on-metal noise when braking
- Brake pad wear warning light on the dashboard
- Scoring or grooving visible on the disc face
- Juddering under braking
- Pulling to one side when braking
- Pad thickness below 3mm on inspection
Tools You'll Need
Step-by-Step Guide
Remove the wheel
Raise the vehicle safely, support on axle stands and remove the front wheel.
Pull off the slider pin dust caps
Two small plastic caps cover the slider pin heads at the rear of the caliper. Pull them off and set aside.
Undo both slider pins with 7mm Allen key
Unscrew both slider pins. Use a screwdriver to push them out slightly if they are stiff. Note both pins are the same length on this model.
Push the piston back slightly
Use a screwdriver against the pad face to push the piston slightly back before sliding the caliper off — this makes removal easier. Remove the reservoir cap first.
Remove the caliper and hang it safely
Slide the caliper off the disc. Hang from a bungee cord or cable tie to the spring or suspension arm — never let it hang on the brake hose.
Remove the old pads
Slide the pads out of the caliper. Even if there is material remaining always replace pads when changing discs.
Remove the T30 Torx disc retaining screw
One T30 Torx screw holds the disc. Remove it. Tap the disc off with a rubber mallet if it is stuck — the disc will be corroded onto the hub on older vehicles.
Clean all mating surfaces thoroughly
Wire brush the hub face and caliper carrier channels. Use a Dremel or file on stubborn rust in the carrier pad channels — this prevents pad rattle and uneven wear. Blow clean with compressed air.
Fit the new disc
Clean the new disc with brake cleaner. Fit it and refit the T30 Torx screw.
Fit new pads into the caliper
Apply a thin smear of brake grease to the pad backing plate ends only. The larger metal prong goes into the piston side of the caliper, the smaller prong into the outside. Push both pads firmly in until located.
Slide caliper back over the disc
Lower the caliper over the disc ensuring both pads sit correctly on the disc surface. Clean the slider pins and apply a thin smear of grease. Refit both pins and tighten. Refit the dust caps.
Refit wheel and pump the brake pedal
Refit the wheel and torque the nuts. Pump the brake pedal firmly several times until it feels solid before moving the car. Carry out several gentle stops from 30mph to bed in the new components.
Torque Specifications
Never replace discs or pads on one side only — always do both fronts together for balanced, even braking.
After pushing the piston back the pedal will go to the floor. Pump several times until it feels firm. This is essential before driving.
🛒 Shop Parts & Tools for This Job
As an Amazon Associate, Mr Auto Fixer earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability may vary.
