I have had my S5 (65) for nearly a year now and had the ECU remap, DSG remap and a hi-flow filter. Now I’m in need of upgrading the brakes to stop the fade. Can anyone recommend where to go and what makes are best?

Hello Karl, 

In the absence of any other replies, I wonder if any of the following may be of a little help:-

I take it you have had the brake fluid renewed recently to ensure it’s moisture content is acceptable since the fluid absorbs water over time and can increase the possibility of brake fade in the event of rapid and severe braking being applied. Again, I take it you have examined the currently fitted pads to establish whether they are of reputable manufacture. 

Could you confirm that your brake fade is being experienced on-track rather than on the road. If on the road, then indeed it is worrying, and something needs to be attended to. 

Perhaps you could let us know, so some recommendations can be made. 

Kind regards,

Gareth. 

Gareth

Thank you for the reply. I haven’t done any of those things you’ve mentioned. I’m conscious that under hard road driving I do get fade and after increasing to 436bhp I want to upgrade to better pads and discs. I have recently changed the pads all round to Brembo but still I get fade. 

Karl

Hello Karl, 

It is possible to have the moisture content of the brake fluid checked quite easily, but in my experience it has to be on the high side of high to cause your problem. Still well worth checking/ renewing the fluid. 

Personally, I’ve found standard Audi brakes more than adequate, and the reason for asking what pads you were using stems from fitting aftermarket ones to our A3 and finding then inadequate. Returning to Audi pads proved everything was fine. 

In my experience Brembo should be amongst the best after market pads to suit normal driving requirements. 

How can I put this Karl? Decided I cannot be as diplomatic as may be required, but brake fluid moisture being within spec. what you are experiencing is the result of braking too late (from too high a speed?) and in quick succession. Speed, and particularly braking should be equally matched to road conditions and both treated with an ‘anticipating’ driving skill. Let’s hope it’s you fluid is the culprit here! 

If it proves to be OK and you would prefer not to drive with anticipation in mind, and to leave on a positive note, have you had a look at the products of EBC? 

Kind regards,

Gareth:  

Gareth

Thanks again for the comments, I have got the fluid booked in to be changed and are looking at the EBC products. Hopefully that will end the matter. 

Karl

Many thanks Karl. Perhaps you could keep the forum updated on how you get on. 

Kind regards, 

Gareth.