The wire coming off the front brake on a 2003 VW Passat is the brake pad wear sensor. It is a thin, metal wire that is attached to the brake pad and extends to the brake caliper. When the brake pad wears down, the wire will eventually break and cause the brake light on your dashboard to illuminate.
How important is it?
The brake pad wear sensor is an important safety feature that helps to ensure that your brakes are always in good working order. By alerting you when your brake pads are wearing down, the wear sensor can help to prevent you from having an accident.
If you see the brake light on your dashboard illuminated, you should have your brake pads checked and replaced as soon as possible. Driving with worn brake pads can be dangerous, as it can increase your stopping distance and reduce your ability to control your vehicle.
How to replace a brake pad wear sensor
Replacing a brake pad wear sensor is a relatively simple task that can be performed in about 15 minutes. You will need the following tools:
* A flat-head screwdriver
* A pair of pliers
* A new brake pad wear sensor
Instructions:
1. Park your car in a safe location and turn off the engine.
2. Jack up the front of your car and chock the rear wheels.
3. Remove the front wheel.
4. Locate the brake pad wear sensor. It will be a thin, metal wire that is attached to the brake pad and extends to the brake caliper.
5. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry the brake pad wear sensor out of the brake caliper.
6. Discard the old brake pad wear sensor.
7. Install the new brake pad wear sensor.
8. Re-install the front wheel.
9. Lower the car off the jack stands.
10. Start the engine and test the brakes.
If you are uncomfortable performing this task yourself, you can have a mechanic replace the brake pad wear sensor for you. The cost of this repair will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, but it is typically between $50 and $100.
