2012–2024 Audi A7
By Tom Becker ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 24, 2026 · Updated Oct 14, 2026
Save $238 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $365
Quick answer: Rear Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement on a 2012–2024 Audi A7 is rated Advanced and takes about 2–3 hours. You'll need 8 tools for this job, and parts cost about $127. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear brake pad set (A7) | — | $18.00 | |
| Rear brake rotors (pair) | — | $79.00 | |
| Pad wear sensor | — | $20.00 | |
| Brake cleaner | — | $10.00 |
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Follow these steps carefully
Confirm the parts are listed for your A7's rear brakes — front and rear pads and rotors differ in size. Check whether your A7 has the standard or S-line brake package before ordering.
Loosen the rear wheel bolts on the ground, raise the rear, and support it on jack stands at the proper rear points. Remove both rear wheels. Chock the front wheels since the parking brake will be disabled during the job.
Put the electronic parking brake into service position with a VCDS or OBD tool. Never force the EPB motor back mechanically. Verify the caliper pistons have retracted before proceeding.
The EPB service mode is non-negotiable on these — I've seen the aftermath of forcing the motor back, and it's a dead caliper plus a four-figure dealer visit. If you don't have the tool, borrow one.
Unbolt the rear caliper and support it so the hose is never stressed. Remove the worn pads and inspect the rotors for scoring or a lip. Disconnect the pad wear sensor wire from its plug if equipped.
Remove the rotor retaining screw and take the old rotor off the hub. Clean the hub face thoroughly with a wire brush to prevent runout-induced vibration. Mount the new rotor and reinstall the retaining screw.
Install the new pads with fresh hardware, positioning the wear sensor correctly. Refit the caliper over the pads and tighten the guide bolts to specification. Reconnect the wear sensor wiring along its original routing.
Take the electronic parking brake out of service mode with the scan tool and confirm it engages and releases normally. Refit the wheels and torque the bolts in a star pattern. Pump the brake pedal until firm before driving.
Bed the new rear pads with moderate stops from about 60 km/h, avoiding complete stops while the pads are hot. Road-test, confirm the parking brake holds on an incline, and check for warning lights. Recheck wheel torque after 100 km.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
