Brakes, brakes, brakes...

[andydavy]

I was wondering if anyone else is a little bit disappointed with the brakes on the Tiguan, I feel like I really have to step on them to get any bite.

I know there's a selection of aftermarket pads around, anyone tried any different ones?

[tigatola]

I was wondering if anyone else is a little bit disappointed with the brakes on the Tiguan, I feel like I really have to step on them to get any bite.

I know there's a selection of aftermarket pads around, anyone tried any different ones?

It may be that they're not completely bedded in yet...how many miles on the OEM pads?

[Preppy]

No issue with mine.
They don't feel as powerful as my MK5 GTI brakes (exactly the same), but that's because they have to haul an extra 300-400lbs down from speed.

I do however have a very high pitched squeal when the brakes are cold... had the same issue with my MK5 GTI.

[vw_nc_dude]

I was wondering if anyone else is a little bit disappointed with the brakes on the Tiguan, I feel like I really have to step on them to get any bite.

I know there's a selection of aftermarket pads around, anyone tried any different ones?

Yep, I feel the same. Compared to our 2008 Passat, I have to break harder with our 2012 Tiguan. I always need to remind myself when switching between our cars since I had some too close calls with cars in front of me while driving the Tiguan.

[DT EXP]

Hawk pads and some new rotors = problem solved!

[SAITCHO]

Yep, I feel the same. Compared to our 2008 Passat, I have to break harder with our 2012 Tiguan. I always need to remind myself when switching between our cars since I had some too close calls with cars in front of me while driving the Tiguan.

X2

[shawng]

X3, I put on Hawk Ceramics and boy did the braking improved. Also, brake dust is way down.

[andydavy]

Thanks for the replies, glad it's not just me!

I don't have any squealing issues with mine, but I did think that as it's a bit heavier than a GTI I shouldn't expect it to stop quite as well. I have 1300 miles on the pads, so I'd think they should be pretty well bedded in by now.

I've tried Hawk pads on a previous car and they made an improvement, so I might give them a try on the Tig too.

I also read that you need vagcom to swap the rears out, anyone confirm this?

[shawng]

Correct, you need VCDS to open and then reset the electric parking brake. You also need the tools to spin the rear pistons back in. One clockwise and one counterclockwise.