How to Replace Rear Brakes on a 2000 Jetta

Replacing the rear brakes on a 2000 Jetta is part of the routine maintenance for the vehicle. The brake system is a vital component of your car, essential to providing a safe driving experience. Remaining vigilant and replacing the rear brakes at the first sign that they are wearing out can help save you money and headaches in the long run. For the typical driveway mechanic, this simple task can be completed in about an hour.

Instructions

1

Place the Jetta in park, or in reverse if the vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission. Do not engage the parking brake. Place the wheel chocks next to the front tires to prevent the vehicle from rolling. If you don't have wheel chocks, use bricks or small wood blocks.

2

Loosen the lug bolts one rotation with the lug wrench before raising the wheel. Use the jack to lift the vehicle until the rear wheel is slightly off the ground. Remove the lug bolts and remove the wheel and set them to the side. Position the jack stand where it will safely support the vehicle while allowing you clearance to work. Lower the jack until the vehicle is securely supported by the jack stand.

3

Place the drain pan beneath the wheel assembly. Use the brake system cleaner to clean the brake assembly. Let the brake assembly dry and move the drain pan. Do not use compressed air. Brake dust is harmful if inhaled.

4

Remove the caliper mounting bolts while holding the caliper slide pins with an open-end wrench. Remove the caliper and suspend it from a length of wire or string. Do not let the caliper hang from the brake line.

5

Remove the old brake pads and the pad retaining springs from the caliper mounting bracket. Install the new retaining springs and the new pads. If the replacement pads you purchased are equipped with an adhesive backing, remove the foil before installation.

6

Retract the caliper piston with your brake piston tool by rotating the piston clockwise while pushing it back into the caliper housing. Different tools are available that make this job easier. The piston must be fully retracted to provide room for the new pads.

7

Place the caliper back into position on the caliper mounting bracket. Install the mounting bolt and tighten using 26 foot-pounds of torque.

8

Raise the vehicle with the jack high enough to allow the removal of the jack stand and the replacement of the rear wheel. Position the rear wheel and install the lug bolts. Tighten the lug bolts until the wheel is firmly seated. Lower the vehicle and verify the wheel lugs are tight.

9

Repeat this procedure on the other rear tire. Remove the wheel chocks. Apply the parking brake after both sides are complete.