Opening and closing the rear parking brake on vehicles equipped with Electronic Parking Brakes (EPB) requires specific procedures using diagnostic tools like VCDS Lite. This guide provides detailed instructions for safely retracting and resetting the rear brakes using VCDS Lite. Incorrect procedures can lead to system errors and potential brake failure.
Essential Precautions Before Starting
Before attempting any procedures, ensure all rear brake components are fully assembled. This includes brake pads, calipers, and rotors properly installed. Connect a battery charger according to your vehicle’s repair manual to maintain a stable voltage throughout the process. Finally, cycle the parking brake ON and then OFF using the vehicle’s switch. This preliminary step helps prepare the system for the VCDS Lite adjustments.
Opening the Rear Parking Brake with VCDS Lite
With VCDS Lite connected to your vehicle’s OBD-II port and the ignition ON, navigate to the following:
- [Select]
- [53 – Parking Brake]
- [Basic Settings – 04]
Within Basic Settings, select Start lining change mode and click [Go!]. This initiates the process of opening the rear brake calipers, allowing for brake pad replacement or other service tasks. The calipers will move to their fully retracted position. Once the “Finished Correctly” message appears in VCDS Lite, click [Stop], then [Done, Go Back], and finally [Close Controller, Go Back – 06].
Important Note: After completing this step, turn the ignition OFF but leave the battery charger connected. The caliper pistons will remain retracted and require a specific hand tool to push them back in during reassembly. A flashing parking brake light is normal in this service mode, indicating the brake is not operational. Do not operate the EPB switch or proceed to the closing procedure until the rear brakes are fully reassembled.
Closing the Rear Parking Brake with VCDS Lite
After reassembling all rear brake components, ensure the battery charger remains connected and turn the ignition ON. In VCDS Lite, follow the same navigation path as before:
- [Select]
- [53 – Parking Brake]
- [Basic Settings – 04]
This time, select End lining change mode and click [Go!]. The brake calipers will now close and reset to their normal operating position. Wait for the “Not Running” or “Finished Correctly” message to appear in VCDS Lite. Then, click [Stop], [Done, Go Back], and [Close Controller, Go Back – 06].
With the VCDS Lite procedure complete, cycle the parking brake ON and then OFF using the vehicle’s switch while simultaneously pressing the brake pedal. This final step helps ensure proper system function.
Final Checks and Test Drive
Before conducting a test drive, use VCDS Lite to scan for any fault codes. Addressing any detected issues before driving is crucial. This comprehensive guide ensures safe and accurate rear brake retraction and reset using VCDS Lite, minimizing the risk of errors and ensuring proper brake functionality. Remember to consult your vehicle’s specific repair manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions.
