Touchy (jerky) brakes

henryn

2013 Volkswagen Passat TDI SE, 66k miles. The brakes are definitely touchy, one could even say "jerky". If you're stopping from 30 mph or more, you do not notice. If you're driving slowly, such as maneuvering back and forth to fit into a very tight parking space, you most definitely notice. The rotors look smooth and clean, and the pads are far from being worn out.

Any advice or suggestions?

henryn

I had forgotten about posting this question, I should have came back and provided the answer. I ordered new Wagner ThermoQuiet brake pads, front and rear, from Amazon. Changed the pads, did not touch the rotors, problem solved.

kyfdx

Do you think any of that has to do with the DSG transmission? I notice at low speeds that mine really downshifts abruptly, while braking down below 20 mph.

henryn

No, afraid not. This is my first DSG, and I have definitely noticed the downshifts and the "engine braking". But this is an entirely different matter.

I park in two different parking garages (at work, at the gym) that are incredibly tight. I often have to maneuver back and forth more than once to get the car into or out of a parking space. This is at very low speeds, moving 5 or 6 feet, stopping, and then changing direction. It is very hard, almost impossible to do this smoothly due to the brakes jerking when applied at very low speeds.

gojdgo123

Have you checked the brake rotors? might be warped.