Audi A5 Disc Brake Hardware Replacement Guide (2008-2017)
Stop brake noise and uneven pad wear on your Audi A5 by replacing worn or missing brake hardware.
- Always replace your disc brake hardware when changing brake pads to prevent noise and ensure even wear.
- Brake noise is a common issue; Audi TSBs recommend cleaning and proper bed-in procedures before replacing parts for noise alone.
- Use a C-clamp to safely and easily install the front anti-rattle spring.
- For your A5, choose a premium aftermarket brand like Centric or Raybestos over budget options for better fit and longevity.
Why Your A5's Brake Hardware Matters
When you think about a brake job, you usually think of pads and rotors. However, the disc brake hardware kit is just as important for your 2008-2017 Audi A5. This collection of clips, springs, and pins is the support system for your brake pads. Over time, this hardware is exposed to intense heat, moisture, and road salt. This causes the metal to rust, weaken, or lose its tension. Reusing old hardware during a brake job can lead to annoying noises and can cause your new pads and rotors to wear out faster.
Symptoms of Failing Brake Hardware
Worn brake hardware can cause problems that are often mistaken for bad brake pads or rotors. Here’s what to look and listen for:
- Rattling or Clicking: A common sign of bad hardware is a rattling or clicking sound from the wheels, especially at low speeds or when driving over bumps. This is caused by loose brake pads moving around in the caliper.
- Squealing or Grinding: While many things can cause brake squeal, worn or missing hardware can contribute. Audi has released several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) about brake noise, often related to debris or the need to clean and lubricate brake components, including the guide pins found in a hardware kit.
- Uneven Brake Pad Wear: If you notice one brake pad is much more worn than another on the same wheel, it could be due to a stuck caliper guide pin or a broken clip. This prevents the pad from moving correctly.
- Vehicle Pulling to One Side: A seized caliper guide pin can cause the brake on one wheel to drag slightly. This can make your A5 pull to one side while driving or braking.
Known Issues: Brake Noise TSBs
Audi is aware of brake noise issues on these vehicles. TSBs 2034181 and 2069904 address customer complaints of squealing, grinding, or creaking noises. The bulletins suggest that causes can include debris, light surface rust from the car sitting, or new pads that haven't been properly bedded-in. Before replacing parts for noise alone, it's recommended to perform several hard stops from over 50 mph (in a safe area) to clean the pad and rotor surfaces.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
For a performance vehicle like an Audi A5, the quality of brake components matters. While OEM hardware is always a safe bet, quality aftermarket kits can offer good performance for less money.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality
Original Audi hardware is excellent but expensive. High-quality aftermarket brands can meet or exceed the quality of the original parts. However, the quality among aftermarket brands varies greatly. Some use lower-grade materials that can rust or lose tension quickly. For a car like the A5, it's best to avoid the cheapest options and stick with reputable brands.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers for Audi A5
- Premium Aftermarket (Beck Arnley, Centric, Raybestos): These brands are generally considered reliable choices. Centric, in particular, has a strong reputation among enthusiasts for well-finished products that fit correctly. Raybestos is a long-standing brand, though some users note you may need to file down small imperfections for a perfect fit. Beck Arnley focuses on sourcing parts that match the OEM design.
- Standard Aftermarket (Dynamic Friction, Dorman): These brands offer a balance of price and quality. Dorman has a mixed reputation; some of their parts are praised for fixing original design flaws, while others are seen as inconsistent in quality by mechanics. For non-critical parts, they can be a good value, but for brakes, it's worth being cautious.
Installation Tip: The Anti-Rattle Clip
The large, visible anti-rattle spring on the front calipers of the A5 can be very difficult to reinstall. Trying to force it on with a screwdriver can be frustrating and unsafe. A much easier and safer method is to use a medium-sized C-clamp to hold the center tab of the spring in place while you use a screwdriver or pry bar to lever the ends into position.
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $12.06 - $28.86 |
| New OEM | $40 - $75 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I really need to replace the hardware with my brake pads?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The old clips have been through thousands of heat cycles, which makes them lose their spring tension. Reusing them can lead to brake noise and premature wear on your new pads. For the low cost of a kit, it's cheap insurance for a quiet, effective brake job.
What is included in a typical disc brake hardware kit?
A kit for the Audi A5 typically includes anti-rattle clips (which the pads slide on), caliper guide pins, guide pin boots, and the large outer pad retaining spring. Contents can vary slightly by brand and whether it's for the front or rear axle.
My new brakes are squeaking. Is it the hardware?
It could be, but there are other common causes. New pads and rotors need to be "bedded-in" to mate their surfaces together. As noted in Audi's TSBs, noise can also come from dust or debris. If you used new hardware and the noise persists after the bed-in period, check that the clips were installed correctly and that the caliper guide pins were properly lubricated.
Is there a recall on the 2008-2017 Audi A5 for brake hardware?
No, there are no specific recalls for the disc brake hardware kit on the 2008-2017 Audi A5. There was a recall for an ABS control module on some 2009-2010 models on a related platform, but not for the hardware itself. Always check the NHTSA website with your VIN for the most up-to-date recall information.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8K0615231 4K0615231A
Kit typically includes anti-rattle clips, guide pins, and pin boots. Front kits also include the large outer pad retaining spring. Materials are typically stainless steel or plated steel for corrosion resistance.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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