Audi Audi Q3 2011-2018 Brakes Specifications
Audi Audi Q3 2011-2018

Audi Audi Q3 2011-2018 Brakes Specifications

A detailed guide covering 2011-2018 Audi Q3 brake specifications, including brake pads, rotors, ABS, and more. Ideal for maintenance, repair, and upgrades.

Updated

2011-2018 Audi Q3 Brake Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the brake specifications for the 2011-2018 Audi Q3. It includes detailed technical information, key features, and reference data for service, maintenance, and upgrade purposes. Use this guide to understand the braking system components, their specifications, and how to navigate the information effectively.

How to Use

To find specific brake-related information, use the search functionality by typing keywords such as 'rotor diameter', 'caliper type', or 'pad material' in the search bar. Results will highlight relevant sections and subsections.

Navigate through the document by exploring the major sections listed in the table of contents. Each section contains detailed subsections with technical specifications and key points. Use the quick reference section for fast access to essential brake specifications.

Key Specifications

Front Rotor Diameter

12.48 in (317 mm)

Rear Rotor Diameter

11.81 in (300 mm)

Brake Fluid Type

DOT 4

Brake Pad Material

Semi-metallic

ABS System

Standard

Available Specifications

Brake System Overview

This section provides a general overview of the Audi Q3's braking system, including its components and key features. It serves as a starting point for understanding the overall brake system architecture.

System Architecture
  • Dual-circuit brake system with diagonal split
  • Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC) integration
  • Brake Assist (BA) functionality
Key Components
  • Ventilated front brake discs
  • Solid rear brake discs
  • Aluminum brake calipers (front)
  • Steel brake calipers (rear)
  • Brake booster with vacuum assistance

Front Brake System

This section details the specifications and features of the front brake system, including calipers, rotors, and pads.

Caliper Design
  • Floating caliper design
  • Single-piston front calipers
  • Aluminum caliper material
  • Integral brake pads with wear sensors
  • Quick release parking brake function
Rotor Specifications
  • Ventilated front rotors
  • Front rotor diameter: 12.48 in (317 mm)
  • Front rotor thickness: 1.02 in (26 mm)
  • Surface coating: Zinc-plated
  • Minimum allowable rotor thickness: 0.98 in (25 mm)
Brake Pads
  • Semi-metallic front brake pads
  • Pad material thickness: 0.47 in (12 mm)
  • Wear sensor integrated into pad
  • Pad replacement interval: 30,000 - 50,000 miles
  • Optional high-performance pads available

Rear Brake System

This section provides detailed specifications for the rear brake system, including calipers, rotors, and pads.

Caliper Design
  • Floating caliper design
  • Single-piston rear calipers
  • Steel caliper material
  • Integral brake pads with wear sensors
  • Parking brake integrated into rear caliper
Rotor Specifications
  • Solid rear rotors
  • Rear rotor diameter: 11.81 in (300 mm)
  • Rear rotor thickness: 0.87 in (22 mm)
  • Surface coating: Zinc-plated
  • Minimum allowable rotor thickness: 0.79 in (20 mm)
Brake Pads
  • Semi-metallic rear brake pads
  • Pad material thickness: 0.43 in (11 mm)
  • Wear sensor integrated into pad
  • Pad replacement interval: 30,000 - 50,000 miles
  • Optional high-performance pads available

Brake Fluid and Hydraulic System

This section covers the specifications and maintenance requirements for the brake fluid and hydraulic system.

Brake Fluid
  • Recommended brake fluid: DOT 4
  • Brake fluid capacity: 0.85 liters
  • Change interval: Every 2 years or 24,000 miles
  • Fluid level check interval: Every 12,000 miles
  • Warning: Use only approved brake fluid to avoid system damage
Hydraulic System
  • Dual-circuit master cylinder
  • Stainless steel brake lines
  • ABS hydraulic control unit
  • Pressure modulator with integrated pump
  • Brake fluid reservoir capacity: 0.5 liters

Brakes Specifications

Overview

Type
ventilated front discs, solid rear discs
Configuration
front and rear
Platform
MQB (Modularer Querbaukasten)
Material
cast iron (discs), aluminum (calipers)
Location
front and rear axle

Dimensions

Front Rotor Diameter
12.3 in (312 mm)
Rear Rotor Diameter
11.8 in (300 mm)
Front Rotor Thickness
1.02 in (26 mm)
Rear Rotor Thickness
0.87 in (22 mm)
Front Caliper Piston Diameter
2.76 in (70 mm)
Rear Caliper Piston Diameter
2.20 in (56 mm)
Pad Thickness
0.47 in (12 mm)
Shoe Thickness
0.39 in (10 mm)
Drum Diameter
10.63 in (270 mm)

Materials

Rotors
cast iron
Calipers
aluminum alloy
Brake Pads
ceramic composite
Brake Shoes
organic friction material
Brake Fluid
DOT 4 synthetic glycol-based

Features

Design
  • ventilated front brake discs for improved heat dissipation
  • solid rear brake discs
  • lightweight aluminum calipers
  • integral parking brake system
  • floating caliper design
Functionality
  • dual-circuit brake system
  • ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
  • EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
  • ESC (Electronic Stability Control) integration
  • Automatic Brake Drying (ABD)
Safety integration
  • pre-sense braking preparation
  • emergency braking assistance
  • brake assist system
  • traction control system
Comfort
  • electronic parking brake
  • auto-hold function
  • brake wear indicator
  • smooth braking operation
Performance
  • optimized friction coefficients
  • low brake fade characteristics
  • high thermal stability
  • responsive pedal feel

Safety Features

ABS
  • prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking
  • maintains directional stability
  • reduces stopping distance
EBD
  • optimizes brake force distribution
  • improves stability under varying load conditions
  • reduces stopping distance on uneven surfaces
Brake Assist
  • enhances emergency braking force
  • shortens stopping distance in panic situations
  • works in conjunction with ABS
Automatic Brake Drying
  • removes moisture from brake rotors
  • improves braking efficiency in wet conditions
  • extends brake system lifespan

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • acoustic insulation of brake components
  • anti-rattle clips for brake pads
  • optimized rotor surface finish
Pedal Feel
  • progressive brake pedal response
  • adjustable pedal firmness
  • short pedal travel
Convenience
  • automatic brake hold function
  • electronic parking brake with one-touch activation
  • brake wear monitoring system
Heat Management
  • ventilated rotors for cooling
  • internal cooling channels in calipers
  • optimized rotor vanes for heat dissipation

Accessories

Upgrade Options
  • high-performance brake pads
  • cross-drilled or slotted rotors
  • stainless steel brake lines
  • performance brake fluid
Replacement Kits
  • complete brake pad sets
  • rotor refurbishment kits
  • caliper overhaul kits
  • brake fluid change kits
Customization
  • colored caliper options
  • engraved caliper logos
  • custom brake pad compounds
  • personalized brake pedal covers

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Items
  • inspect brake pads and rotors
  • check brake fluid level and condition
  • test brake system for leaks
  • clean and lubricate brake components
  • measure rotor thickness
Notes
  • use only DOT 4 brake fluid
  • replace brake fluid every 2 years
  • inspect parking brake function
  • check ABS and ESP system status

Warranty

Basic
Miles: 48,000 miles
Years: 4 years
Coverage: parts and labor
Extended
Miles: 80,000 miles
Years: 6 years
Coverage: parts and labor
Powertrain
Miles: 100,000 miles
Years: 10 years
Coverage: parts and labor
Corrosion
Miles: 144,000 miles
Years: 12 years
Coverage: perforation only

Production Details

Manufacturer
Audi AG
Manufacturing Process
  • CNC machining of brake components
  • high-temperature treatment for rotors
  • aluminum alloy casting for calipers
  • precision assembly and testing
Quality Control
inspection: dimensional and surface inspection
Testing: performance and durability testing
Certification: compliance with international standards
Sustainability Practices
  • recyclable materials used
  • energy-efficient manufacturing processes
  • reduced emissions during production
Production Metrics
Annual Production: over 100,000 units
Failure Rate: <1%
Warranty Claims: low

Service Information for brakes Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

30,000 miles
24 months
  • inspect brake pads and rotors
  • check brake fluid level and condition
  • test brake system for leaks
  • clean and lubricate brake components
  • measure rotor thickness

Use only DOT 4 brake fluid. Inspect ABS and ESP system status.

60,000 miles
48 months
  • replace brake fluid
  • inspect and clean brake pads
  • measure rotor thickness
  • check caliper operation
  • inspect brake hoses

Special tools required for brake fluid replacement.

90,000 miles
72 months
  • replace brake pads
  • inspect and machine rotors
  • inspect caliper seals
  • replace brake hoses if necessary
  • perform ABS system test

Critical to use manufacturer-approved parts. Specialized tools required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What are the technical specifications of the brakes for the 2011-2018 Audi Q3?

The 2011-2018 Audi Q3 features front and rear ventilated disc brakes. The front brake rotors measure 12.3 inches in diameter, while the rear rotors are 11.1 inches. The brake system is compatible with 17-inch or larger wheels and uses DOT 4 brake fluid. The calipers are aluminum, and the brake pads are designed for optimal heat dissipation and stopping performance. The system also includes electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and anti-lock braking (ABS) for enhanced safety and control.

Q2

What maintenance is required for the brakes on the 2011-2018 Audi Q3?

Regular brake maintenance for the 2011-2018 Audi Q3 includes inspecting brake pads every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, checking rotor thickness, and ensuring brake fluid levels are correct. Brake fluid should be replaced every 2 years or as specified in the service manual. Additionally, the brake system should be inspected for any leaks or damage, and pads should be replaced when worn below 3mm. Rotors may need to be resurfaced or replaced if excessively worn or warped.

Q3

How do I install or replace the brakes on the 2011-2018 Audi Q3?

To replace the brakes on the 2011-2018 Audi Q3, start by raising the vehicle and removing the wheels. Remove the caliper bolts and slide the caliper off the rotor, taking care not to damage the brake hose. Remove the old pads and install the new ones. If replacing rotors, remove the rotor screws and replace the rotor. Reinstall the caliper and tighten the bolts to the specified torque. Bleed the brake system to remove any air and test the brakes before driving.

Q4

How do I troubleshoot common brake issues in the 2011-2018 Audi Q3?

Common brake issues in the 2011-2018 Audi Q3 include spongy brake pedals, grinding noises, or reduced stopping power. Check the brake fluid level and for any leaks. Inspect the pads and rotors for wear or damage. If the pedal feels spongy, air may be in the system, requiring bleeding. Grinding noises often indicate worn pads or warped rotors. If the ABS light illuminates, check for fault codes using an OBD-II scanner and address any issues promptly.

Q5

How can I optimize the performance of the brakes on the 2011-2018 Audi Q3?

To optimize brake performance on the 2011-2018 Audi Q3, use high-quality brake pads designed for your driving conditions. Ensure proper alignment and torque of all brake components during installation. Regularly clean brake rotors to prevent debris buildup. Consider upgrading to performance brake pads or cross-drilled rotors for improved heat dissipation and stopping power. Always use the correct DOT 4 brake fluid and avoid mixing different types of fluid.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Audi Q3 Brake Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide detailing brake system specifications, maintenance, and repair procedures for the 2011-2018 Audi Q3.

Technical Bulletin: Brake System Update

Coming Soon

Official technical bulletin providing updates and improvements for the brake system of the 2011-2018 Audi Q3.

Audi Q3 Brake Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Detailed catalog of genuine and compatible brake parts for the 2011-2018 Audi Q3, including pads, rotors, and calipers.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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