VCDS Release 18.9: Guide to Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) Basic Settings

Caution!

• Do not attempt these procedures with disassembled brakes. Opening, closing, and testing the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) require properly installed pads and calipers on the rotors.
• Follow these procedures precisely. Each step is crucial. Skipping steps may lead to unresolved issues, hindering effective troubleshooting.
• A full Auto-Scan with VCDS 18.9 is highly recommended to identify any pre-existing faults before proceeding.

Opening the Rear Parking Brake with VCDS 18.9

Prerequisites:

• All rear brake components must be fully assembled.
• Connect a battery charger according to your vehicle’s repair manual.
• Cycle the parking brake ON and OFF once before starting.

Procedure:

1. Connect VCDS 18.9 to your vehicle’s OBD-II port.
2. [Select] [53 – Parking Brake] [Basic Settings – 04]
3. Choose “Start lining change mode” [Go!] to activate the Basic Setting. This opens the brake calipers for pad replacement.
4. Once “Finished Correctly” appears, click [Stop] [Done, Go Back] [Close Controller, Go Back – 06]

Important Notes:

• Turn off the ignition but keep the battery charger connected.
• Manually push the caliper pistons back using a suitable tool. They will not retract automatically.
• A flashing parking brake light is normal in this service mode, indicating the brake is unavailable. Do not operate the EPB switch until reassembly. Do not proceed to the closing procedure until the rear brakes are fully reassembled.

Closing the Rear Parking Brake with VCDS 18.9

Prerequisites:

• All rear brake components must be fully reassembled.
• Connect a battery charger as per your repair manual.

Procedure:

1. Connect VCDS 18.9 to your vehicle’s OBD-II port.
2. [Select] [53 – Parking Brake] [Basic Settings – 04]
3. Select “End lining change mode” [Go!] This closes the brake calipers.
4. After “Not Running” (or “Finished Correctly”) displays, click [Stop] [Done, Go Back] [Close Controller, Go Back – 06]
5. With the brake pedal depressed, cycle the parking brake ON and OFF using the vehicle’s switch.

Final Steps:

• Use VCDS 18.9 to check for any fault codes before a test drive. Addressing these codes ensures proper EPB function and safety.