VW A3 Brake Tools

The tools needed to change the brakes on a VW Golf and MK3 Cabrio -- Volkswagen's only two cars built on the A3 platform -- are a lot like the tools you need to change any vehicle's brakes. However, some tools work better than others and require less strength to use. Once you have the proper tools, changing the brakes is an easy fix and you'll save money by doing the maintenance yourself.

Car Jack and Jack stands

You need a car jack to lift the vehicle off the ground so you can remove the tires. Make sure that you jack the car up so that all tires are on the same level. While jack stands are not a requirement, using them keeps the weight off the car jack and stabilizes the vehicle, making the job safer.

Lug Wrench

You have to remove the tires to get to the brakes; therefore, a lug wrench is needed to get the lug nuts off the tire before removal. For the VW A3, either a lug nut cross or an 11/16 lug wrench can be used. Make sure you loosen the lug nuts before you jack the car up, so that the tire doesn't spin during the process.

Socket Set

Sockets and wrenches are needed to loosen the bolts holding the brake pads. There are two bolts that hold the brake pad assembly to the rotor assembly in the VW A3. These bolts need to be taken off in order to change the brake pads. A second wrench is needed to hold the nut to prevent it from turning while loosening the bolt.

Piston Compression Tool

The piston compression tool is a special tool that is needed to change the brakes. This tool can be rented from various car parts stores if you don't want to purchase one. The piston must be retracted and turned clockwise at the same time, and the tool helps you retract it. Be careful not to damage the rubber cover on the piston.