A Guide to the 2006-2018 Audi A6 Disc Brake Hardware Kit
Don't let worn clips and pins ruin your brake job; here's what you need to know for your A6.
- Always replace the disc brake hardware kit with every brake pad change to ensure safety and prevent noise.
- For 2012-2018 (C7) models, you MUST use a scan tool to retract the electronic rear parking brake before service.
- Properly lubricating the caliper guide pins and hardware contact points is critical to prevent sticking and noise.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Centric, Raybestos, and Dynamic Friction offer excellent value compared to OEM parts.
Why Your A6 Needs New Brake Hardware
When you're doing a brake job on your Audi A6, focusing only on the pads and rotors is a mistake. The disc brake hardware is constantly exposed to extreme heat, moisture, and road salt. This causes the metal clips to lose tension, guide pins to seize with corrosion, and rubber boots to crack. Re-using old hardware can lead to annoying brake squeal, pads wearing down unevenly, or a dangerous situation where a caliper sticks. For the precision braking system on an A6, fresh hardware isn't optional; it's required for a safe and quiet stop.
Common Symptoms of Failed Brake Hardware
- Brake Noise: Squealing, rattling, or grinding sounds are often the first sign that hardware is worn, loose, or missing. Audi has issued technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to diagnosing brake noise, often pointing to issues with hardware or debris.
- Sticking Calipers: If a guide pin is corroded and can't move freely, the caliper won't release properly. You might notice your car pulling to one side, a hot wheel with a burning smell 🎬 Watch: Diagnosing a shaking and pulling stuck brake caliper. after a drive, or a decrease in fuel economy.
- Uneven Pad Wear: When pads wear at an angle or the inner pad wears faster than the outer, it's a classic sign of seized guide pins or improperly seated hardware.
C6 vs. C7 Generation: The Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
A major difference in this year range is the rear brakes on the C7 generation A6 (2012-2018). These cars have an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB). You cannot simply compress the rear caliper piston with a C-clamp. You MUST use a diagnostic scan tool (like VCDS or OBDeleven) to put the rear calipers into service mode first. Attempting to force the piston back will damage the caliper's internal electric motor. The C6 generation (2006-2011) generally uses a mechanical parking brake system that does not require this electronic tool.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step front brake and rotor replacement for C6 models.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
You don't need to pay dealership prices for quality brake hardware. Many aftermarket brands offer excellent quality, often exceeding the original parts. Here’s a breakdown of available brands.
- Good (Economy Tier): Brands like Dorman and the basic lines from Centric or Raybestos offer functional, budget-friendly kits. They will get the job done but may use standard zinc plating instead of more durable materials, making them less ideal for areas with heavy road salt.
- Better (OE-Quality Tier): This is the sweet spot for most A6 owners. Brands like Centric (Premium), Raybestos (Element3), and Carlson provide kits with materials and corrosion resistance similar to the original Audi parts. They offer a great balance of quality, fit, and price.
- Best (Premium Tier): Brands such as Dynamic Friction (DFC) and Beck Arnley often go a step beyond. DFC is noted for using more stainless steel components for maximum corrosion resistance. Beck Arnley specializes in sourcing parts that match the specific OE form and function. These are excellent choices for enthusiasts or those in harsh winter climates.
Pro Tip: Always use a high-temperature silicone-based brake lubricant on caliper guide pins and on the points where the brake pads contact the hardware clips. This is critical for preventing noise and ensuring smooth operation.
Cost of Replacing Your A6 Brake Hardware
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hardware Kit | $6.69 - $40.95 |
| New OEM Hardware Kit | $50 - $100+ per corner |
| Shop Labor (Hardware only, if with brake job) | Included in brake job labor |
| Shop Labor (Full Brake Job, per axle) | $150 - $300 |
Costs are estimates and can vary by location and vehicle specifics. Labor for hardware is typically part of a larger brake service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really have to replace my brake hardware?
Yes. The old clips and springs have been heat-cycled thousands of times and have lost their proper tension. Reusing them is a common cause of brake noise and uneven wear. For the low cost of a new kit, it is cheap insurance for a proper brake job.
What tool do I need for the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) on a 2012-2018 A6?
You need a diagnostic scan tool that can communicate with the Audi brake control module. Popular options for DIYers include Ross-Tech's VCDS or the OBDeleven device. These tools have a function to command the rear calipers to open for service and then close and recalibrate after the new pads are installed.
🎬 See how to use VCDS to service your rear calipers.Why are my new brakes still making noise?
There are a few common reasons. First, ensure the new pads were bedded-in properly. This process mates the pad material to the rotor surface. Second, check that brake lubricant was applied correctly to all metal-to-metal contact points, including the back of the pads and the hardware clips. Third, using very cheap or aggressive performance pads can sometimes cause noise.
Is there a difference between front and rear hardware kits?
Yes, they are almost always different. The front and rear brake calipers are different sizes and designs, requiring specific hardware. Furthermore, different trim levels or engine options on the A6 can have different brake sizes, so always verify the kit is for your exact vehicle (front or rear, and correct rotor size).
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4H0907801E
Kit contents vary but typically include anti-rattle clips, pad abutment clips, guide pin boots, and sometimes guide pins. Kits are specific to front or rear axle and brake caliper size. Verify fitment for your specific A6 submodel (e.g., Premium, Prestige, 2.0T, 3.0T).
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Audi A6: