Rear brake pads worn quicker than normal, at 12,000 miles they started wearing down and the metallic sound started to occur.

- Washington, DC, USA

I have a 2007 VW Rabbit, purchased August 13, 2007. Manufactured 05/2007 my brakes appeared to be squealing under light depression of the brake pedal during low speed braking situations. I brought my vehicle to the dealer nearest me. When alleged repair of my vehicle was completed the dealer informed me that remaining pad life averaged 80% for all four wheels. However upon completion of work vehicle squealed louder than when vehicle was dropped off for service. When I inquired as to the cause of the squeals origin, the service writer informed me that "squealing was normal" I (owner) am a BMW diagnostic level III technician with over 10 years service experience. Educated at uti, I have the benefit of the theoretical expertise to understand the the principals affecting the brakes systems employed by german auto makers. Upon arriving home that evening, after properly securing my vehicle on a stable and level surface I raised the rear wheels off the ground and inspected for causation, only to find less that 5% friction material remaining. (approx 1.5mm) and rotor damage had begun with rotor surface deformation the next likely event. To abate this event from occurring, I replaced the rear pads, and the squealing ended. When I inquired whether the causation of accelerated and uneven brake pad wear could have been caused by a defective proportioning valve, or caliper defect, the VW customer service representative referred me to "nitsa.com" (which had its domain expire 2 years ago in 2005) she stated that VW was unable to remedy any situation other than through dealer representation. Though I rectified the manufacturers fault, had I listened to the dealer recommendation of 80% pad life remaining I could have died from metal to metal contact of pad base to rotor with the possibility of fire or crash. Having little to no recourse. Thank you for any and all assistance you may be able to render in this matter. Sincerely, peter villafana

- Venice, FL, USA