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I own Passat 1.8T year 2001.5 (therefore, 8 years old), odometer 112,000km. I had front discs replaced for the first time 6 months ago, at 106,000km. I replace summer/winter wheels regularly and last week, I noticed that both front break lines are damaged/cracked right at the point where they are connected to the break and have small oil leak. This wasn't the case 8 months ago, before the front discs were replaced. I have the following questions:1. My experience from previously owned vehicles is that the break lines last well over 10 years. What is expected lifespan for the VW break lines?2. It is interesting that both front break lines broke around the same time, and only at the front wheels. Could that be that the lines were damaged by unprofessional handling when the discs were replaced 6 months ago?
Optional Information: Year: 2001Make: VolkswagenModel: PassatEngine: 1.8T
I have worked at Volkswagen dealers where you think they would hire professionals but in fact they hire whoever is cheapest. I have seen these people hang the calipers from the brake line when changing the pads. Brake lines are not designed to support any weight in this manner and it even says in repair manuals to not support the weight of the calipers on the brake lines.On your second point brake lines almost never need to be replaced unless there was some outside influence that damaged them.The best thing you can do is to go back to the dealer and raise hell until they fix your car. Don't sign an estimate for any amount greater than zero or else they will try and charge you. And be ready for them to try and convince you that it is your fault. If the service writer wont help, talk to the service manager.Good luck .
Experience: ASE Master Certified with advanced L1, California Smog Tech, Volkswagen Certified
Thank you for quick answer.
Service claims that this is normal wear and tear. They also charge approx CDN$550 for the replacement of these 2 break lines. Assuming that I agree with the replacement: what is reasonable price for the replacement of the 2 lines? Ie. on the web, I see that these lines cost approx $30 each; how long does it take to replace them?
Just looked up the times on Alldata.Each front lines pays 0.4 hour, (0.8 for both sides).Bleeding brakes pays 0.9 hour.Total hours: 1.7.$550 seems very expensive unless they charge $200+ an hour.Dealers gouge there customers with their expensive parts too. Routinely marking them up 100% or more. If you can find good quality parts from somewhere else this will save you some money. But some after market parts are quite poor. Try to find a Volkswagen specific site like: GermanAutoParts.It sounds like they are trying to convince you that it is your fault when they say "wear and tear". But if you must pay for it your self I would try and find an independent shop that specializes in Volkswagens. The hourly rate should be less and they might care about the quality of their work.