Polo Vivo Brake Pads: OPT3179 Fitment and How to Check Pad Wear

Front brake pads are one of the most common parts replaced on a VW Polo Vivo. This guide covers which Polo Vivo brake pads we stock, which models they’re listed for, and how to check your pads so you replace them before they damage your discs.

The Optimasa OPT3179 front brake pads

The Optimasa OPT3179 front brake pads are a front axle set. One box covers both front wheels. Optima pads are made in Durban from a non-asbestos compound, and each pad is slotted and chamfered.

According to the Optima SA parts catalogue, the OPT3179 is listed for these Polo Vivo engines from 2010 onwards:

Polo Vivo 1.4 (CLPA), 16V 63 kW, 2010-on
Polo Vivo 1.4 (CLPB, BKY), 16V 55 kW, 2010-on
Polo Vivo 1.6 (CLSA), 16V 77 kW, 2010-on

The same catalogue also lists the OPT3179 for other VW Group cars, including the Polo 6R/6C, Polo 9N 1.4, Golf 6, Jetta 4 1.6, Up! and Audi A1. The full list, with engine codes and years, is on the product page.

Why the engine code matters

VW fitted different brake setups to different versions of the same model. Pad shapes and sizes can change between generations, engine sizes and even trim levels. That’s why we list fitment by engine code and year rather than just “Polo Vivo”.

Before you order:

Find your engine code on the service book, the vehicle data sticker or the engine itself.
Check your model year on the licence disc or registration papers.
If possible, compare the new pads with your old ones before fitting. The shape, size and wear-sensor arrangement should match.

If your Vivo isn’t in the list above, or you’re not sure, send us your year, engine and VIN and we’ll check it for you. You can also browse other options in our Brake Pads & Rotors category.

Signs your Polo Vivo brake pads are worn

Front pads do most of the braking work, so they wear first. Watch out for:

Squealing when you brake. Some pads have a metal tab that squeals when the friction material gets thin.
Grinding or scraping. This often means the pad material is gone and metal is touching the disc. Stop driving and have it checked, because this damages the disc quickly.
A longer or softer pedal. This can be pad wear, but it can also point to low brake fluid or air in the system.
The brake warning light. On cars with a wear sensor, the light comes on when the pads reach their limit. The light can also mean low fluid, so check both.
Pulling to one side. Uneven pad wear or a sticking calliper can make the car pull when you brake.
Vibration through the pedal or steering. This usually points to warped or uneven discs rather than pads, but they’re often checked together.

How to check pad wear

You can do a basic visual check at home. Only work on a level surface with the handbrake on, and use proper stands if you lift the car. Never work under a car held up only by a jack.

Look through the wheel. On many alloy wheels you can see the calliper and the outer pad through the spokes. Look at how thick the friction material is between the backing plate and the disc.
Remove the wheel for a better view. Loosen the wheel nuts, lift the car safely, support it on a stand and remove the wheel.
Check both pads. The inner pad often wears faster than the outer one, so look at it too, not only the outer pad.
Compare with the minimum. Your service manual or workshop will give the minimum pad thickness for your car. If you’re close to the limit, replace the pads.
Check the disc. Look for deep grooves, a raised lip on the outer edge, or blue heat marks. Disc minimum thickness is usually stamped on the disc itself.
Check both sides. Always replace pads in axle sets, both front wheels at the same time. The OPT3179 box covers both front wheels.

If you’re not confident checking or fitting brakes yourself, have a qualified workshop do it. Brakes are a safety item.

Fitting tips

Clean the calliper carrier and pad contact points before fitting new pads.
Don’t get grease or brake fluid on the friction material or the disc.
Push the piston back slowly and keep an eye on the brake fluid reservoir so it doesn’t overflow.
Pump the pedal several times before driving, until it feels firm.
Bed the pads in with a few moderate stops from moderate speed, avoiding hard emergency stops for the first while if you can.

When to replace the discs as well

New pads on worn discs won’t brake as well and may wear faster or make noise. Replace or skim the discs if they’re below the minimum thickness, deeply scored, or causing vibration. Ask your workshop to measure them when you change the pads.

FAQ

Do the OPT3179 pads fit the rear of a Polo Vivo?

No. The OPT3179 is a front axle set. Rear brakes are a separate part.

Does one box do both front wheels?

Yes. One box covers the left and right front wheels.

How often should I replace Polo Vivo brake pads?

There isn’t a fixed kilometre figure. Pad life depends on how and where you drive. Check them at every service and replace them when they reach the minimum thickness in your service manual.

My Vivo isn’t on the list. Can you still help?

Yes. Send us your year, engine and VIN and we’ll check which pads fit before you buy.

Need help matching brake pads to your Polo Vivo? Contact ZGaya Auto Parts or visit the shop and we’ll check fitment for you.