Audi Q5: Braking
What affects braking efficiency?
New brake pads
During the first 250 miles (400 km), new brake pads do not possess their full braking effect, they have to be "broken in" first.
Operating conditions and driving habits
The brakes on today's automobiles are still subject to wear, depending largely on operating conditions and driving habits. On vehicles that are either driven mostly in stop-and-go city traffic or are driven hard, the brake pads should be checked by your authorized Audi dealer more often than specified in the Warranty & Maintenance booklet. Failure to have your brake pads inspected can result in reduced brake performance.
On steep slopes, you should use the braking effect of the engine. This way, you prevent unnecessary wear on the brake system. If you must use your brakes, do not hold the brakes down continuously. Pump the brakes at intervals.
Operating noise
Noises may occur when braking depending on the speed, braking force and outside conditions such as temperature and humidity.
Effect of water and road salt
In certain situations, for example after driving through water, in heavy rain, after overnight condensation or after washing your car, the braking effect can be reduced by moisture or ice on the brake rotors and brake pads. The brakes must be dried first with a few careful brake applications.
At higher speeds and with the windshield wipers turned on, the brake pads press against the brake rotors for a short amount of time. This occurs at regular intervals without the driver noticing and provides for better brake response time under wet conditions.
The effectiveness of the brakes can be reduced when the vehicle is driven on a salt-covered road and the brakes are not used. Likewise, you clean off accumulated salt coating from brake discs and pads with a few cautious applications of the brake.
Corrosion
There may be a tendency for dirt to build up on the brake pads and corrosion to form on the discs if the car is not driven regularly or only for short trips with little use of the brakes.
If the brakes are not used frequently, or if corrosion has formed on the discs, it is advisable to clean off the pads and discs by braking firmly a few times from a moderately high speed.
Faults in the brake system
If you should notice a sudden increase in brake pedal travel, then one of the two brake circuits may have faded.
Low brake fluid level
Malfunctions can occur in the brake system if the brake fluid level is too low. The brake fluid level is monitored electronically.
Brake booster
The brake booster increases the pressure that you generate with the brake pedal. It only operates white the engine is running or with the ignition switched on (hybrid drive).
Brake Lining wear status
Brake lining wear may be checked by visual inspection of the condition of the brake pads through the openings in the wheel. If necessary, the wheel may be removed for this inspection.
WARNING
- New brake pads don't have the best stopping power and must be "broken-in" during the initial 250 miles (400 km). You can compensate for this by pressing the brake pedal more firmly. This also applies later when new pads are installed.
- You should perform braking maneuvers for the purpose of cleaning the brake system only if road conditions permit. Other road users must not be put at risk - you may cause an accident!
- Before descending a steep grade, reduce speed and shift transmission into a lower gear or lower driving range. Do not ride the brakes or hold the pedal down too long or too often. This could cause the brakes to get hot and diminish braking efficiency.
- Do not "ride the brakes" by resting your foot on the pedal when you do not intend to brake. This may cause the brakes to over heat, premature wear and increased stopping distance.
- Under certain climatic and operating conditions
such as passing through water, driving
in heavy rain or after washing the vehicle,
the effectiveness of the brakes can be reduced.
In winter, ice can accumulate on the brake pads, linings, discs and drums. Carefully apply brakes for a test. Brakes will dry and ice coatings will be cleaned off after a few careful brake applications.
- Driving for an extended period of time on
salt-covered roads without using your
brakes can also affect braking efficiency.
Clean off accumulated salt coating from brake discs and pads with a few careful brake applications.
- If you damage the front spoiler, or if you install a different spoiler, be sure the air flow to the front brakes is not obstructed. Otherwise the brake system could overheat reducing the effectiveness of the entire brake system.
- Failure of one brake circuit will impair the braking capability resulting in an increased stopping distance. Avoid driving the vehicle and have it towed to the nearest authorized Audi dealer or qualified workshop.
- Never let the vehicle roll to a stop with the engine shut off.
- If the brake booster is not working, the brake pedal must be pressed considerably harder to make up for the lack of booster assistance.
